Joseph Mizzi was an energetic, caring and very loyal person to his family, to his many friends and the village of Qala, not less to the greater community of Qalin in Australia, that numbers 2,010. A passionate love for Qala’s patron saints St Joseph and the Immaculate Conception was seen and felt in all his work as vice-president of the Australian Qala Association (AQA). These words best describe Mr Mizzi, the vice-president of the AQA for the last decade and active in the George Cross Island Association (Sunshine), who recently passed away in Melbourne, Australia.

I will cherish the great moments we had during the many events organised by the AQA over the years. His presence was always felt and he had strong opinions on many issues. He adhered to his principles till the end and was respected by many for doing so.

Joe, we will miss you dearly in Qala and in Melbourne where you and your family lived for the past 40 years. You represent a vast generation of Gozitan migrants who were born out of the ashes of the war in Gozo, left your homeland that you loved so much to better your family’s chances in life, you succeeded and made Australia your home. Joe, you have done Qala and its people very proud!

May you rest in eternal peace!

Dr Raymond C. Xerri

Qala