On 30 October 2025, residents, team members and special guests gathered at Scalabrini Chipping Norton to officially open our brand new bocce court; a lively new hub for friendly competition, physical activity and connection.
This project was proudly supported by a $18,000 Community Building Partnership Grant from Tina Ayyad MP, Member for Holsworthy. The finished court measures approximately 22 feet by 6 feet, purpose-built for social play and resident wellbeing.
Bocce is more than a game here now. It’s a weekly ritual that keeps minds sharp, bodies moving and friendships strong.
Celebrating local champions and a rich bocce tradition
Bocce has long been a resident favourite at Scalabrini Communities. Many of our community members play regularly, at the village and on outings and the energy is always spirited (and a little competitive!).
We’re also proud to share that Amelio Barbero, a resident of Scalabrini, is a former world champion who represented Australia and has won medals and prizes across an extraordinary career. Amelio’s passion continues to inspire players of all abilities.
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Regular play: Weekly games at Liverpool Catholic Club + home matches on site
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Friendly rivals: Our very own Scalabrinian neighbours in Austral now join us fortnightly for matches and morning teas
Opening day highlights
The celebration began with a warm welcome from Parul Dhiman (Village Manager of Chipping Norton) together with rest of the village leadership team. Guests of honour Tina Ayyad MP (Holsworthy) and The Hon. Mark Speakman MP (Cronulla) met residents, chatted with players at the sideline and watched a few ends in action. The morning wrapped up with outdoor morning tea next to the new court, sunshine, smiles and plenty of playful bocce banter.
What made the day special:
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Ribbon-cutting and welcomes from the village team
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Meet and greet with local MPs and resident players
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Exhibition games (with plenty of friendly rivalry!)
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Shared morning tea beside the brand new court
Why bocce matters in aged care?
Investing in spaces for movement and connection is core to how we support resident wellbeing at Scalabrini.
Benefits our residents tell us they love:
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Physical activity: Gentle movement, balance and coordination
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Cognitive stimulation: Strategy, focus and skill development
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Belonging: Team spirit, laughter and inter-village friendships
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Accessibility: Easy to learn and inclusive across abilities
Thank you to our supporters
This court wouldn’t exist without the Community Building Partnership program and the commitment of our local leaders. Thank you to Tina Ayyad MP for her support and grant, and to The Hon. Mark Speakman MP for joining us to celebrate. We also acknowledge our village team, residents and volunteers who helped bring the project to life.
Visit, volunteer or play a friendly round
Curious about life at Scalabrini Chipping Norton? Whether you’re considering residential aged care for a loved one or interested in volunteering, we’d love to host you for a visit. Perhaps even for a quick game.
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Book a tour: Meet our team and see the bocce court in action.
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Join our community: Learn more about life, activities and care at Scalabrini.
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Volunteer with us: Help host matches, morning teas and social events.
