The head of the Doltone House group of function and conference centres says he will continue his father's legacy of philanthropy and hard work after being recognised in the Australia Day Honours.
Paul Signorelli, of Blakehurst, was awarded the Order of the Medal of Australia (OAM) for service to the hospitality sector and to the community.
His father Biaggio migrated from Sicily when he was 19, arriving in Sydney in 1954 with only a suitcase.
Biaggio's first job was unloading fruit and vegetables at the docks before he bought his first fruit shop. In 1988, he opened Mother Nature's Fruit World at Blakehurst.
In 1994, Biaggio and Paul bought Doltone House at Sylvania Waters and, since then the family has opened a further four venues.
Paul Signorelli has been executive chairman of the group since 2004.
He is also executive chairman of the Biaggio Signorelli Asbestos Foundation, which was established to fund research after Biaggio died in 2008 from mesothelioma.
Mr Signorelli also supports a range of charitable, religious, multicultural, medical research and sporting organisations.
In 2010, a bronze statue titled Life from a Suitcase, which he commissioned, was unveiled at Jones Bay Wharf, honouring Biaggio and other migrants who have helped build Australia.
Mr Signorelli said he was "very privileged and honoured" to have been awarded an OAM.
"I love Australia and will continue my father's legacy of philanthropy and hard work," he said.
"I especially want to thank my family for their support,
"Having recently celebrated Doltone House's 50th anniversary, this award is an example of the dedication, commitment and hard work.
"To the parties that nominated me I thank them and Happy Australia Day to all."
