Biography
In 1966, a two-year-old girl named Lidia Caruso arrived in Brisbane with her parents, Ross and Nella, and her two older siblings, Peter and Maria — one of thousands of Italian families who crossed the world in search of a new beginning. Her father Ross, a bricklayer and builder, went on to help construct the very city that would become her home, laying bricks that still stand as part of Brisbane today.
Growing up steeped in Italian tradition and Catholic faith, Lidia carried those values into a lifetime of quiet, generous service to others. For years she's gave her time to the Italian Catholic Federation youth group, taking on committee roles as President, Secretary, and Treasurer — always willing to step up wherever she was needed. This is where she met her husband of 36 years Nick Ranalli.
Her heart for community has shone through in her schools, too, with years spent on the Parents and Friends Associations at Queen of Apostles Primary and Mt Alvernia College. She's also given generously of her time to parish life, serving on the Queen of Apostles Parish Council and working in the office at Holy Cross Parish.
At the heart of it all, Lidia is someone who shows up — for her faith, her community, and the people around her — carrying forward the same spirit of hard work and heart that brought her family to Australia all those years ago. She believes in providing a sense of community for all and teaching people what the Italian culture and hospitality is truly all about.