Susanna Freymark
Luca Terramadre came to live in Kyogle three years ago.
Born in Lake Garda near Verona, Italy, Luca keeps his homeland close by teaching Italian online and face to face in Kyogle.
Kyogle is a long way from Lake Garda.
“My girlfriend’s family is from Clunes,” Luca said.
Katie Thomas and Luca have a one and a half year old and lived in Melbourne for four years before moving to Kyogle.
Luca had visited Australia once before he moved here permanently.
“My first hot Christmas in Oz was in 2015,” he said.
“I tried my first mango then.
“After six months back in cold, grey Europe, we came back to Australia.”
In Kyogle, Luca and Katie have an orchard and make their own jam and hot chili sauce.
Learning a language has many benefits beyond being able to learn how to order in an Italian restaurant, Luca said.
He has witnessed how learning Italian can transform lives — connecting people to new cultures, boosting their confidence, and creating lasting friendships.
Learning a new language boosts your brainpower, Luca said.
“It improves memory and keeps the brain sharp.”
Italian classes for adults start on Friday, January 31.
For those ready to say Ciao to a new adventure, sign up for the eight week course with Luca.
Go here to sign up.