Introduction: A thread of culture that is ahead of time Everyone has their roots somewhere and their identity. This identity connects people to each other, no matter where they go. One such unique example is a cultural center located on Matisi Street in Melbourne, Australia, where the Friuli community has kept its language, culture, traditions and spirit alive for decades. This club is not just a building, but a ‘cultural soul’ connecting generations and uniting the hearts of thousands of immigrants.
The legacy of Friuli culture: A brief glimpse
Friuli is the historical region that is situated in the northeastern part of Italy and that has the own language, folk customs and traditions, food, and way of life. The culture did not stay behind; because when thousands of Friuli citizens went to nations such as Australia in the mid-20 th century in search of employment, education and a better life, their culture did also come with them. Despite the fact that it is not that simple to preserve his/her identity in another country, this club founded in Melbourne did this work very effectively.
How the club became a cultural heritage centre
The club was established not only to unite the community, but also to relate the future generations with their roots. With time, the club started to arrange language classes, dance parties, music festivals, traditional food festivals and talks within the community. The children and youth learnt the Friuli language so that these people were able not only to know the language used by their grandparents, but also to use it.
Connecting generations through events and programs
The club connected not only the Friuli community but also other communities in Melbourne to their culture. Annual festivals, such as the “Festa della Friul”, illuminated the streets of Melbourne with traditional costumes, dance, song and food. Such events transformed Friuli culture into a living experience.
Special summer camps and ‘Cultural Youth Nights’ were organised for children, where they not only became familiar with their language and music, but also felt an emotional connection by listening to stories from their ancestors.
How to get to Matisi Street: Travel Guide
If you want to visit this historic and cultural site, Matisi Street is easy to reach, located just a short distance from the center of Melbourne. You have several options to get here:
By public transport:
Travel by tram:
- Take the tram of line 96, which goes towards “St Kilda Beach”.
- Get off at “Middle Park Tram Stop” and from there walk south on “Canterbury Road”.
- You will reach Matisi Street in a short distance.
Train and bus combination:
- Take the train to “South Yarra Station”.
- From there take the bus number 606 which goes towards “Fisherman’s Bend”.
- Get off at the “Canterbury Road/Montagu Street” stop and walk east from there.
- In a few minutes Matisi Street will be in front.
Self-drive:
From the CBD (Melbourne City):
- Go south on St Kilda Road
- Turn left onto Toorak Road
- Cross Chapel Street and continue onto Commercial Road
- Turn onto Coventry Street and then onto Canterbury Road
- Parking will be available on the street nearby
From Melbourne Airport:
- Take the Tullamarine Freeway (State Route 43)
- Take the “Montagu Street” exit via City Link
- Take Coventry Street and then onto Canterbury Road
- Parking will be available on or near the street
Modern role and changes of the club
Over time the club has expanded its role from being just a cultural centre. It now serves many modern needs including a social support centre, support for seniors, and mental health awareness. The club also regularly holds computer classes, health awareness sessions, and community meetings.
Besides it, the club has also made efforts to ensure Friuli traditions are preserved on virtual platforms. The heritage has survived even during the pandemic with online language learning courses, online festivals, and online exhibitions.
Conclusion:
Matese Street club is not only a brick and cement building, it is also the living myth of generations, their feelings and their history. It portrays the idea that despite immigrants failing to leave their culture behind, which instead they carry with them and plant in a new ground, the two thrive.
The Friuli Club is an inspiration in how the heritage may follow the pace of modernity, and the culture may be experienced in all ways of life, not only in books. Come to Melbourne and don?t miss this spot on the Matese Street in case you can feel the glitter of you homeland in some old eyes there.