How Croatians in Australia Observe Good Friday Traditions
By Suzana Fantov
As Easter approaches, the Croatian community in Australia continues to uphold one of its most cherished Lenten traditions—fasting and preparing a humble, meatless meal for Good Friday. This Good Friday tradition, significant among Croatian Australians, strengthens their cultural bonds.
While far from the roots, Australian Croatians remain deeply connected to their heritage, especially when it comes to food and faith. A recent online poll conducted within the community shed light on how families across Australia are preparing for this solemn day of reflection as part of their Good Friday tradition.
The poll, titled “How are you preparing for Good Friday? ”, asked community members what they plan to make for their Good Friday meal. The response was both telling and heartwarming, offering a glimpse into the culinary traditions that have travelled generations and continents as a central part of their Good Friday tradition.
The Poll Results: Faith on a Plate
Participants were given four options:
- Cod in white sauce (Bakalar na bijelo)
- Grilled fish (Riba na gradele)
- Vegetable soup and salad
- Something else (with comments invited)
While final numbers weren’t disclosed, early trends showed a strong leaning toward Bakalar na bijelo, a dried cod dish that requires days of preparation. This classic Dalmatian recipe, often cooked with garlic, parsley, and olive oil, is a nostalgic favourite, especially among older generations. Its preparation alone becomes a communal activity—soaking the cod days in advance, discussing seasoning secrets, and passing down memories with every stir of the pot. This dish is a cornerstone of the Good Friday tradition.
Coming in a close second was grilled fish, a simple yet flavourful option that speaks to the coastal roots of many Croatian families. Often prepared outdoors over charcoal, “riba na gradele” brings a sense of Mediterranean ease to Australian backyards. It’s a favourite among younger generations looking for a faster, yet still traditional, alternative. This also shows how the Good Friday tradition adapts over time.
Vegetable soup and salad was a more modest choice, reflecting the spiritual intent of fasting—simplicity, humility, and sacrifice. Some respondents mentioned pairing it with homemade bread or a drizzle of olive oil from family groves back in Croatia.
Finally, many chose “Something else” and took to the comments to share family-specific customs. From octopus salad to just the bread and water, it was clear that regional and personal variations still thrive. Some shared photos, while others reminisced about celebrating with grandparents or recreating long-lost recipes from the “stari kraj” (old country).
More Than Just a Meal
For Croatian Catholics, Good Friday is about more than just food—it’s about reflection, prayer, and community. The act of fasting is tied to the remembrance of Christ’s suffering and death, and even those who may not be devout churchgoers still make an effort to observe this day through tradition, making Good Friday a day of deeper connection and significance.
In Croatian clubs across Australia—from Sydney to Melbourne, Adelaide to Perth—Good Friday gatherings often include special services and communal meals. In recent years, even with the pressures of modern life, there’s been a noticeable resurgence in cultural pride, especially among second and third-generation Croatians in Australia. They continue to honour the Good Friday tradition.
Keeping Traditions Alive
What this simple online poll revealed is profound: food remains one of the strongest links between past and present, faith and family, homeland and diaspora. Whether it’s the labor-intensive bakalar or a quick grilled snapper, the dishes served on Good Friday in Croatian homes tell a story of resilience, identity, and love. These dishes are central to maintaining the Good Friday tradition alive.
As one commenter beautifully put it, “It’s not just about what we eat, but why we eat it. On Good Friday, we remember. We simplify. And we stay connected.”
This Good Friday, Croatian community in Geelong are keeping tradition alive with special seafood lunches. These lunches are an integral part of their Good Friday tradition.
The Croatian club, AHD Geelong is hosting a Good Friday lunch featuring authentic char-grilled fish, served fresh from 12pm to 5pm. Guests are encouraged to book early by calling (03) 5278 2596 to secure a spot.
Meanwhile, the Croatian Community Centre of Geelong has announced that their Good Friday lunch is fully booked. However, seafood lovers need not miss out — the centre hosts a popular fish night every Friday. Reservations are recommended.
Celebrate the day with delicious Croatian-style seafood and warm community spirit as part of the Good Friday tradition!