Kilbreda Students Shine at the Dante Alighieri Italian Poetry Competition

As part of their Senior Italian studies, Year 10 – 12 Italian students attended The University of Melbourne’s Parkville campus on Monday 1 June to participate in the Dante Alighieri Poetry Recitation Competition, an annual statewide event in Victoria.

The excursion provided a valuable opportunity to further develop Italian language skills while deepening understanding of Italian culture and literature. Drawing participants from more than 40 schools across Victoria, the competition required entrants to memorise and recite an Italian poem before a panel of expert judges. Recitations were assessed on pronunciation, expression, interpretation and spoken fluency, with competitors participating in either the Italian-Australian or Non-Italian division.

Presenting a poem in a formal competition setting required dedication, confidence and careful preparation. Participation in the event encouraged authentic engagement with the language and offered insight into Italy’s rich literary heritage.

We are delighted to announce that three Kilbreda representatives achieved exceptional results, receiving scores of 98 or above and securing a place in the finals on 14 July. Congratulations to:

• Year 10’s Georgia A (who performed The Divine Comedy: Inferno, Canto XXVI verses 106 – 120)
• Year 10’s Celeste H (who presented L’infinito Infinity by Giacomo Leopardi)
• Year 11’s Lucy W, who recited The Divine Comedy: Inferno, Canto V verses 94 – 108.

A highlight of the day was a shared lunch at Brunetti Classico on Lygon Street, Carlton, where the group enjoyed authentic Italian cuisine, including pasta, pizza and gelato. The occasion provided a fitting way to celebrate both the competition and the hard work that led to such impressive results.

Students reflected positively on the day, particularly the opportunity to challenge themselves, connect with peers and engage meaningfully with Italian language and culture.

Eloise P reflected that the experience helped build her confidence in speaking Italian in front of others.

Lucy W shared, “The best part of the day was when we got to go out for lunch. The competition definitely helped my confidence when speaking Italian in public, and the judges were very nice.” She also encouraged future participants to take part in the competition, highlighting the opportunity to experience Italian culture firsthand and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Lygon Street.

Catherine M reflected, “It was a very good day to go out and do the poem as an experience, as well as going to Lygon Street after was a valuable experience.”

Georgia A described the competition as “an incredible and highly insightful experience,” noting the opportunity to step outside her comfort zone, strengthen her Italian skills and build closer connections with classmates while feeling proud of her achievement.

Liv M shared that “the most valuable part of my day was being able to experience the city and enjoying Italian food with all of my friends.” She also reflected on the value of trying something new through the competition.

Sarah A reflected, “The most valuable part of the day was the lovely lunch we had at Brunetti’s where we were able to have some amazing Italian food and bond with our class. The poem helped lots with my pronunciation of Italian words and letters and the overall experience helped me to get over my public speaking nerves. I had such an amazing day and am so glad we were able to do this!”

We congratulate all participants on their outstanding efforts and wish our finalists every success in the upcoming finals of the competition.

Lucia Barbera

Teacher: Italian

Giovanni Di Fabrizio

Learning Leader: Languages