Ceremony brings people together

More than 300 people from Perth and the South West region joined together to celebrate the annual Feast of Our Lady of the Immigrants in Harvey.

Now in its 54th year, the event first came to Perth from Milan on February 13, 1966, and has since been held annually in Harvey.

Festa committee secretary Angela Vitalone said the event was a celebration that brought together immigrants from all over the country.

“There are only three festas held across the globe,” Ms Vitalone said.

“One in Argentina, one in America and one in Australia.

“The festa is seen as a creative response to the immigrant experience.

“It has been enjoyed by many immigrants who left their homes to start life here in Australia.”

Three buses from Perth arrived at the Harvey Catholic Parish with dozens of immigrants ready to take part in the event.

A procession took place along Uduc Road where immigrants walked together following the statute of Mary before a mass led by Father Tony Chiera.

“After the mass we attended a lunch where guests learnt cultural dances such as the Italian tarantella,” Ms Vitalone said.

“It was just beautiful to see all the different cultures come together and celebrate with one another.”