Like most migrants, he came to Australia in search of a better life for himself and the people he loved.

Mr Cimino was born in 1929 in Cassaro, a small town in Sicily, and was one of five children to parents Salvatore and Maria.

A lack of teachers forced him to leave school in grade 2, after which he began helping his father and grandfather on their farm.

Cassaro had limited employment opportunities, so Mr Cimino decided to try his luck in Australia.

On August 20, 1951, he packed his clothes in a suitcase, said heartfelt goodbyes to his family and boarded the SS Roma for the ship's first voyage to Australia.

He arrived in Melbourne on October 8 and settled in North Melbourne for eight years.

Mr Cimino found work in Spotswood with glass manufacturer ACI. He remained loyal to the company throughout his life, working there until his retirement in 1993.

During his early days in Australia, he read and copied words from the newspaper every day to help him learn to speak English.

Mr Cimino met his future wife, Giuseppina Gallenti, at a friend's house, marrying her on March 5, 1960.

They had three sons: Sam, Greg and David.

The couple lived in Kensington after marrying, later moving to Essendon to share a home with Mrs Cimino's parents.

After 12 years in Essendon, the family moved to West Sunshine, where they still reside.

Like many Italian immigrants, Mr Cimino likes working in his garden and socialising with friends at an Italian club.

However, as an Australian he also enjoys football and is a fanatical supporter of the Bombers, attending games with his grandchildren, Stephanie and Lisa.

Mr Cimino is happy and content with his life in Australia.

However, what gives him the most joy and happiness is to share his precious memories with his friends and family.

Stephanie is a year 10 work experience student from Ave Maria College in Essendon.