By Suzana Fantov
Photos: Croatian Karlovac Association Sydney, Ivanka Šimić
Today, we are proud to present the Croatian Karlovac Association in Sydney. It is a society that has, for many years, preserved and promoted the rich traditions, culture, and unity of people from Karlovac. Likewise, it has connected with many members of the Croatian community in Australia. Founded with the goal of connecting emigrated Karlovac natives and their families, the Association has become an important part of the Croatian community in Sydney. Moreover, it regularly welcomes a significant number of friends and supporters.
Through various activities, gatherings, and cultural events, this Association not only fosters a deep love for their homeland, but also successfully passes on Croatian identity to younger generations. In the following, we bring you more about their work, goals, and what life looks like for Karlovac natives “Down Under”. This is done in conversation with Mr Vlado Ilijanić.
Can you tell us about your role in the Croatian Karlovac Association?
First, allow me to greet all the staff of the “Hrvatski vjesnik” editorial team, as well as the readers of this beloved newspaper.
My name is Vlado Ilijanić, born in Veliki Erjavec, Municipality of Ozalj, Karlovac County.
I currently serve as the Secretary of the Karlovac Association Sydney Inc.
I became a member of the Association in 1991, and a board member in 1992. It was an honour when you asked me to speak about the origins and the role of the Karlovac Association.
Foundation and Purpose of the Association
When was the Croatian Karlovac Association in Sydney founded, and what are its main goals? Who were the founders and what motivated them to establish the Association?
In June 1991, an initiative committee was formed. The year 1991, and the period that followed, were difficult years for Croatia. There was a strong need to organise aid for children – war orphans – and hospitals were running out of medical supplies.
The initiative committee (a photo of members receiving certificates is attached) managed to organize donations through parties, picnics, trips, and excursions.
With the help of Mrs Caroline Banjavčić, the Association was officially registered on 3 July 1992.
By registering, the Association received its Certificate of Association Incorporation.
With incorporation, the Association became a legal entity with all rights and obligations under state law. It was formally named the Croatian Karlovac Association Sydney Inc.
The procedure for obtaining an Australian Business Number and Charitable Fundraising Authority followed.
Membership and Inclusivity
How many members does the Association have today and who can join?
The Association currently has 250 members. While we have gained new members over time, sadly, our numbers have gradually declined. This is because many of our members have passed away.
The Association, as a legal entity, submitted our Articles of Association to the relevant state authorities. These are fully compliant with Australian law. Our rules do not include any special criteria for who can become a member – everyone is welcome.
Charity and Community Contribution
- Even though the situation in Croatia has since stabilized, the Association has continued its volunteer and humanitarian work. This is because the need for donations remains. These include aid during Australian natural disasters such as floods, bushfires, hurricanes, and droughts. There is also support for medical research initiatives such as the Cancer Council, Heart Foundation, and Red Cross. Additionally, we provide international aid for countries affected by tsunamis, earthquakes, and other emergencies. –
Annual Activities and Events
What regular events and activities does the Association organise throughout the year? Where do these take place? Are there traditional celebrations or events that are especially significant to the Karlovac community in Australia? How does the Association commemorate important dates in Croatian history and culture?
We hope that the Association continues its work for many more years. This involves bringing people of goodwill together to socialize, dance, enjoy good music, and simply get out of their four walls.
To make this happen, the Association organizes the revival of old Croatian customs. This includes events such as “kolinje” (traditional pig slaughter – sausage and crackling making), “maškare” (carnival), and Jurjevo (the feast of St George).
These events are held at the King Tomislav Croatian Club and the Croatian Club Concord. These clubs replaced the sold Croatian Club in Punchbowl.
Important dates in Croatian history and culture are made available to our Croatian clubs to organize in their well-equipped venues. This offers attendees plenty of options to celebrate and enjoy.
How does the Association connect and engage Karlovac natives and their families in Sydney? Does the Association cooperate with other Croatian clubs and organisations in Australia? Are there any special programmes for younger generations – children and youth?
As for children and youth, we do not currently have a wide range of programs such as music, folklore, or other workshops. However, we try to involve them by teaching them about the ways their grandparents and great-grandparents lived and celebrated.
We actively cooperate with all associations, clubs, churches, and the General Consulate of Croatia in Sydney. This is led by the highly respected Consul General, Mr Ivica Glasnović.
Upcoming Event: July 2025 Social Gathering
Our upcoming tea party (čajanka) is scheduled for 6 July 2025. It will take place at the King Tomislav Club, starting at 1:00 PM. There will be live music provided by the duo Kemo and Mirko.
If you’re in the mood for good company, coffee, and sweets, this is a perfect opportunity for a pleasant Sunday afternoon gathering.
A Living Example of Cultural Preservation Abroad
The Croatian Karlovac Association in Sydney is a brilliant example of how the diaspora can preserve the spirit of the homeland and build a strong community even far from home.
Their dedication, volunteerism, and commitment to culture and unity demonstrate just how deep roots can go – even on the other side of the world.
Whether you’re from Karlovac or simply wish to experience the warmth of Croatian togetherness, the doors of this Association are always open. With pride, they look to the future, hoping for even stronger connections and the successful passing of traditions to the next generation.