Congratulations Mr George Belperio OAM

I rise today to congratulate Mr George Belperio on being awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in the General Division. 

Mr Belperio is a highly regarded and active member of the Italian community and it will come as no surprise to those who know him that this honour recognises his service to the Italian community. 

George was born in 1954 in San Giorgio La Molara, Italy and came to Adelaide as a young boy in 1958. And it was at the club of the same name in my electorate where I was honoured last week to join many members of the San Giorgiese community, and indeed the Hon. Vincent Tarzia, in honouring this achievement. 

George is known in the community for his incredible achievements as a businessman and restauranteur. No doubt this passion grew from a childhood steeped in family, fresh produce from the market garden and as he says, “good food with lots of laughter and lots of love.” 

This passion saw him go from strength to strength as he built his Fasta Pasta franchise, starting with one restaurant in Pirie St and eventually reaching 39 restaurants all over Australia. 

But more importantly, it seems, has been his support of Variety Bash SA, Radio Italiana 531, and the myriad other ways he supports the local Italian community. 

I must also acknowledge that behind this great man is a great woman and, as George has said himself, his achievements would not have been possible without the love and support of his “rock” Josie, his wife of 41 years. George is also incredibly proud of his children, Enzo and Rebecca, and his delightful granddaughter, Penny. 

Receiving an OAM is an incredible achievement is a person’s life and denotes truly outstanding hard work and commitment to a cause. 

The Italian community is renowned for their extraordinary work ethic and contribution to our state. And it is testament to George Belperio that his effort has been so outstanding as to be recognised with this prestigious award. I know his community are incredibly proud of him, I am proud to know him. Congratulations George Belperio.