Mr Calabria’s longtime friend and Nine Network Entertainment Editor, Richard Wilkins, hosted the event which saw 300 guests come together to support the Charlie Teo Foundation and The Sydney’s Children’s Hospital Foundation, while honouring one of Griffith’s legends.

Among the guests celebrating Mr Calabria were his wife Lena; his sons Franks, Michael, and Andrew; and daughter Elizabeth, with all their partners, grandchildren, customers, and colleagues.

Friends boxer Jeff Fenech, footballer Josh Reynolds, Channel Nine’s Cameron Williams, journalist John Mangos, auctioneer Vic Larusso, and Charlie Teo’s daughter Alexandra also made an appearance on the day.

Andrew Calabria, Mr Calabria’s son, spoke at the momentous occasion:

“Dad is a vintage baby, born in March – the middle of the grape harvest – and rarely had the opportunity to celebrate his birthday in the way he deserved due to the long vintage hours,” Andrew said.

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Mr Calabria, second generation of the family, continued the wine business from its founders, parents Francesco and Elizabeth.

After the wine industry crash in the ’80s, Mr Calabria picked up the pieces and continued to produce quality wine.

“All of Dad’s achievements have been milestones; the boxing, the music, the winemaking accolades, charity donations and awards, which include receiving the Order of Australia and the prestigious NSW Graham Gregory Award. But I think reaching 70 is a milestone worth celebrating in itself here tonight, and as Dad is not a materialist individual, it made sense to use his birthday celebration to raise money for two important charities,” Andrew said.

Mr Calabria was overwhelmed by the support and generosity of so many.

“I am grateful for everyone taking the time and providing financial support. With the generosity of family, friends and colleagues, we have been able to give back to the community and make this dream a reality. My mum always said to me that no matter what you have, you always have something to give someone less fortunate,” Mr Calabria said.

Guests were treated to fine food and beverages, entertainment by the Black Sorrows, X Factor Australia star Nathaniel, and a stellar performance by Bill Calabria and his own band from the ’70s, ‘The Echoes’.