A Continuous Tribute by the Croatian Community in Australia
Photos: Archive – Zlatko Kozlevčar, S.Fantov
This year marks the 80th anniversary of the Bleiburg Tragedy and the Way of the Cross of the Croatian people, historical events deeply ingrained in the collective memory of the Croatian nation, both in the homeland and among the diaspora worldwide. The Croatian Parliament, as in previous years, has assumed the patronage of the commemoration of this anniversary, which will take place on the 16th and 17th of May at Bleiburško Polje, as well as at Mirogoj in Zagreb and in Macelj.
While official commemorations will be held in Croatia and Austria, Croatian communities in Australia have, for decades, nurtured the memory of the victims of these tragic events with great care.
In Croatian Catholic centres and communities across Australia, special memorial masses, commemorative programmes, and prayers are organised to honour those who lost their lives on the Way of the Cross (Križni put) shortly after the end of the Second World War in May 1945.
Remembering the Thousands of Innocent Victims
Through prayer, candlelight, and moments of silence, communities remember the thousands of war prisoners and civilians, including women, the elderly, and children, who were subjected to brutal repression under the supervision of the former Yugoslav Army. The columns, exhausted by hunger and forced marches, passed through Slovenia to various destinations in Croatia. Many perished along the way—either executed due to exhaustion or died from inhumane conditions, including being transported in closed railway carriages with no basic conditions for survival.
“Our communities in Melbourne regularly organise commemorations to preserve the memory of those who suffered unjustly. It is our moral and patriotic duty,” said many of those who participated in the commemorations at the Croatian Catholic Centre in Sunshine, regularly organised by the HDZ Sunshine branch.
Commemorations – An Act of Reverence and Unity
A special atmosphere surrounds these events—churches and centres are filled with members of the community from all generations, from those who personally endured the horrors of war to the younger ones who learn about the history of their nation through these gatherings. Lighting candles, reciting prayers, praying the rosary together, and attending mass provide an opportunity to quietly remember those who suffered without trial or guilt.
Bleiburg – A Symbol of Suffering, but also of Faith and Hope
Bleiburg and the Way of the Cross are not just symbols of suffering—they have also become symbols of faith, hope, and unwavering love for the homeland. The Croatian diaspora in Australia, even after decades away from their homeland, has not forgotten—and by doing so, they bear witness to the strength of unity and identity.
With prayer, candles, and words of remembrance, Croatians in Australia show that truth and sacrifice do not fade; they live on—in the hearts of descendants, in the churches of communities, and in every sign of respect paid to these innocent souls.
We will be sharing information regarding the upcoming commemorations and Masses dedicated to the victims of Bleiburg through our website and social media platforms. Please stay tuned for further details and join us in remembering this significant part of our history.
We have so far gathered the information regarding the upcoming commemoration:
- Sunday, 18 May, at the Croatian Centre in North Fremantle, following Holy Mass at St Anne’s Church in North Fremantle.
All Croats are invited to attend this important remembrance of one of the greatest tragedies in Croatian history — Bleiburg and the Way of the Cross. A tragedy that must never be forgotten, and victims to whom we owe our deepest respect.
By honouring the victims of Bleiburg and the Way of the Cross, we also pay tribute to all victims of communist terror, including those who gave their lives during the Homeland War.
All are welcome!
Eternal glory and honour to the May martyrs!