The future has never looked brighter for Hrvatski Vjesnik-Croatian Herald.
Zoran Juraj SABLJAK
This week as we publish our final weekly printed edition of Hrvatski Vjesnik-Croatian Herald, I found myself reflecting on the remarkable journey we’ve shared since I became editor in July 2011. Even then, nearly 14 years ago, the shift toward digital platforms was becoming evident, and our first steps into the online world through Facebook showed us the tremendous potential that digital media offered.
I’m excited to announce our full transition to a comprehensive digital platform—complete with a website, social media presence, Facebook, YouTube channel, X, Instagram etc—that will allow us to serve our community better than ever before. While declining readership due to an aging population and the devastating impact of COVID lockdowns has presented challenges, this transformation represents not an ending, but an exciting new beginning.
In its 42-year history, Hrvatski Vjesnik has been guided by just four editors—a testament to the dedication and passion that has defined our publication. Ivan Butković served for 8 years (1983-1991), followed by the late and great Tomislav Starcevic who led us for an incredible 15 years until his tragic passing in 2007. Tonći Prusac, who had been Tom’s second-in-command for nearly a decade, then took the helm until 2011. It has been my profound privilege to continue this legacy for the past 14 years.
I want to pay special mention to my long-time friend Stanko Kovač with whom I started this journey. Unfortunately, Stanko left us way too early in 2014. He was and still is greatly missed. His passion for our community and unwavering support in those early days of my editorship helped shape the path we continue to follow today.
While we bid farewell to our weekly print editions, I’m delighted to confirm that our print legacy will continue through a more substantial monthly format. This approach allows us to honour our traditions while embracing innovation.
Throughout our history, we’ve documented countless significant moments for the Croatian community. Among the most memorable were Croatia’s hard-fought independence, the fall of Vukovar, Tom Starčević’s passing, the Gotovina verdict in 2012, Oliver Dragojević’s passing and our national football team’s incredible World Cup successes in 1998, 2018, and 2022. These moments connected us as a community, and our new digital platform will allow us to capture and share such events with even greater immediacy and reach.
This transition isn’t goodbye—it’s a resounding hello to the world as we continue our mission of keeping Croatian tradition, culture, and heritage alive. Our digital presence will enable us to deliver more content, more quickly, with wider reach and greater relevance, including live streams from across Australia and worldwide.
Our digital transformation has allowed us to expand our team considerably, welcoming both fresh talent and cherished veterans to our ranks. I’m thrilled to share that we’ve even persuaded former editor Tonći Prusac to contribute articles once again. This blend of new perspectives and experienced voices means our editorial team will be stronger and more extensive than ever before, ready to deliver exceptional content for our community.
I will continue as Editor-in-Chief for the foreseeable future, but I’m heartened by the enthusiastic support we’re receiving from younger generations who are passionate about ensuring Hrvatski Vjesnik thrives for decades to come.
The contribution of Ivan and Kathy Filipović from the I&D Group to Hrvatski Vjesnik has been nothing short of astounding. When our publication faced its greatest challenges, they stepped forward with unwavering commitment, recognising its profound value as the voice of the Croatian community in Australia.
Their steadfast support has been the lifeline that allowed the Vjesnik to continue its important work throughout these years. Now, as we move boldly into the digital era, their full endorsement of this transition demonstrates their characteristic vision, as they recognise how essential online platforms are for reaching and engaging future generations.
While their generous contributions to numerous Croatian football clubs and cultural organisations have been well documented over the years, I believe their dedication to the Vjesnik stands as their greatest legacy. This publication serves as the beacon and voice of our community’s history and cultural identity.
Thanks to their ongoing support and vision, Hrvatski Vjesnik will not only survive but thrive for decades to come, continuing to record our shared story for future generations. As Board Chairman, Ivan has meticulously guided this digital transformation while ensuring we remain mindful of our aging readers’ needs—precisely why we’re maintaining the monthly print edition alongside our dynamic new digital presence.
I also extend my heartfelt thanks to Mr. Zdenko Marinčić, who served as Board Chairman for nearly 35 years and whose leadership and mentorship during my early days as editor proved invaluable. Special gratitude goes to Suzana Fantov, my assistant, whose tireless week-in, week-out support has been essential—she will continue in her role as we embrace our digital future.
I’d like to express my appreciation to our dedicated Zagreb team led by Marko Barišić, whose efforts have been invaluable to our publication. Special thanks also go to our original editor, Mr. Ivan “Buco” Butković, whose continued contributions demonstrate his enduring commitment to Hrvatski Vjesnik and the Croatian community we serve.
Special recognition must go to David Davutović and his exceptional team at BrucemediaCo for their dedicated efforts behind the scenes in orchestrating our seamless transition to digital. Many of you will recognise David from his distinguished career as a sports journalist—a remarkable journey that began right here at the Vjesnik where he got his pivotal first break in the industry.
His willingness to guide us through this transformation brings his story full circle in the most meaningful way. And to you, our loyal readers over these 42 years, we invite you to join us on this exciting new journey. We will continue to be the voice of the Croatian community in Australia, with something for everyone to enjoy as we begin this new chapter together.
The future has never looked brighter for Hrvatski Vjesnik-Croatian Herald.