Melbourne’s beloved comedy trio, Sooshi Mango, have been crowned the 2025 Moomba Monarchs, marking a new milestone for the hometown heroes.
Known for their uproarious ‘ethnic dad’ characters—Johnny, Vince, and Sam—the trio will preside over this year’s Moomba Festival, bringing their signature charm and comedic flair to one of Australia’s most iconic celebrations.
Born and bred in Melbourne, brothers Carlo and Joe Salanitri and their best mate Andrew Manfre have taken the comedy world by storm, amassing over a billion views online with their relatable, European-inspired skits.
But their talents don’t stop at comedy—they’re also local business owners, running the popular Johnny, Vince & Sam’s Ristorante on Carlton’s Lygon Street. Now, they’re set to dive headfirst into their royal duties, including competing in the legendary Birdman Rally, where they’ll leap into the Yarra River alongside 13 other competitors, all in the name of charity.
Running from 6 to 10 March, the 2025 Moomba Festival promises to be bigger and better than ever, celebrating 70 years of free, family-friendly fun.
The festival will showcase Melbourne’s colour and culture through art, music, sport, and food, with the annual Moomba Parade taking centre stage. This year’s parade will feature 1,600 performers, seven dazzling new floats—including a collaboration with the Children’s Cancer Foundation and a Wurundjeri-designed float by artist Alex Kerr—and a kaleidoscope of community spirit.
Adding to the excitement, international pop sensation Peach PRC will light up Federation Square with a free, high-energy concert, while thrill-seekers can soar 60 metres in the air on the brand-new Sky Flyer XL.
From the Moomba Masters water sports competition to the disco-themed Community Roller Jam, there’s something for everyone. There’s also more than 30 rides, 35 food trucks, nightly fireworks, and a new $4 coupon system for faster fun,
Lord Mayor, Nick Reece, said more than 1.3 million people are expected to join in the whacky and wonderful Melbourne celebration.
“No one is too cool for Moomba, so drop the pretence and join the fun at Australia’s biggest free community festival,” he said.
“We’re gearing up for big belly laughs as we crown Sooshi Mango the 2025 Moomba Monarchs and follow their antics as they immerse themselves in the action.”
For more information and the full program, visit the official Moomba website.
