Italian steelworker's suitcase photo wins Wollongong prize
Gaetano Risi's photograph by grandson Oliver won top prize in a Wollongong photography competition.
In 1960, Gaetano Risi arrived in Wollongong from Italy, barely able to speak English, with only some shirts and a pair of shoes in his suitcase. Sixty-six years later, his portrait, taken by grandson Oliver, won first prize in a city-wide photography competition.
It was chosen from more than 450 entries. Judges all agreed on Oliver's image.
It captured the social history of Wollongong and its migrants. After arriving, Gaetano worked at the BHP steelworks.
He built a life in Port Kembla with his wife Angela and three brothers who also emigrated. The photograph shows him holding the original suitcase.
It is now a symbol of the journey that began more than six decades ago.
- 1960
- Gaetano's arrival year
- 66 years
- Years between arrival and prize
- more than 450
- Photo competition entries
- Cassino, Italy
- Birthplace
Why it mattersThe story celebrates migrants who built Australia's industrial heartland. It shows the human faces behind the nation's post-war growth.
AustraliaThe prize recognises the contribution Italian and other migrants made to Wollongong's steel industry and local culture.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 1 d ago
