Early Life and Background
Salvatore Sam Tarascio was born on June 22, 1944, in Vizzini, Sicily, Italy. In 1949, at the age of five, he emigrated to Australia with his family. Raised by his Sicilian migrant parents in the Melbourne suburb of Werribee, Tarascio developed a strong work ethic and an entrepreneurial spirit that would later define his career.

Career Beginnings and Entry into Real Estate
Before establishing himself as a leading figure in the Australian real estate industry, Tarascio worked in pharmaceutical sales. This early career experience provided him with valuable business acumen and an understanding of commercial operations.

In 1972, he took a bold step into the property market by purchasing swampland and constructing a warehouse for Hoechst, a pharmaceutical company. This strategic move laid the foundation for what would become Salta Properties, a privately owned real estate development and investment firm.

The Growth of Salta Properties
Salta Properties grew into a major player in Melbourne’s commercial and industrial real estate sector. Over the years, Tarascio built a substantial portfolio, which includes business parks, distribution sites, a large shopping mall, and a market. His business acumen and foresight helped transform the company into one of Australia’s most successful property development firms.

Today, Salta Properties is managed by his eldest son, also named Sam Tarascio, ensuring the company remains a family-led enterprise with a strong legacy in the industry.

Personal Life
Sam Tarascio is married to Christine Tarascio (née Johnson), and together they have three children: Sam (born 1975), Lisa (born 1977), and David (born 1979). Family has always been central to Tarascio’s life, and his business remains a family endeavor, with his son continuing to manage the company’s operations.

Passion for Olive Cultivation
Beyond real estate, Tarascio has a deep passion for growing olives and producing extra virgin olive oil. He owns a property on the Mornington Peninsula dedicated to this endeavor. His interest in olive oil production is rooted in family tradition—his grandfather, Salvatore “Turi” Tarascio, began pressing olives in Vizzini around 1930. This legacy continues to inspire Tarascio’s agricultural pursuits.

Authorship and Legacy
In 2018, Tarascio published his autobiography, My Way, in which he shared insights into his journey from an immigrant child to a billionaire businessman. The book details his business strategies, personal experiences, and the values that shaped his success.

Impact and Influence
As one of Australia’s most successful property developers, Salvatore “Sam” Tarascio has made a significant impact on Melbourne’s real estate landscape. His contributions to the industry and his family’s ongoing leadership at Salta Properties ensure his influence will endure for generations to come. His dedication to business, family, and tradition exemplifies the values of perseverance, innovation, and legacy building.