Photos: Croatian Senior Club Vila Velebita – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064645827276
For nearly three decades, the Australian-Croatian Club Vila Velebita has been bringing together Croatian retirees in Melbourne, offering them warmth, friendship, and a place to celebrate their heritage and traditions. Every Thursday, the community centre in Dallas fills with laughter, the aromas of home-cooked meals, and the sound of the Croatian language.
We spoke with Nada Kralj, the current president of the club, who shared insights into the club’s daily life and the deep meaning it holds for many members.
When was your club established, and where do you gather?
Vila Velebita was founded almost 29 years ago. Our regular gatherings are held at the Lynda Blundell Community Centre, 185 Blair Street, Dallas VIC 3047, in Broadmeadows. We meet every Thursday from 2 PM to 10 PM.
How many members do you currently have, and how many regularly attend meetings?
We have around 120 members, and approximately 80 attend regularly. Some of our older members, especially in winter when it gets dark early, find it harder to come, but we always try to support one another.
Leadership and Committee
Who runs the club, and who is part of the committee?
I am currently the president and have held this position for two years. Before me, my husband Stjepan was president for seven years. We’ve both been active in the club for 22 years. We also have dedicated committee members who help with organising, cooking, record-keeping, and more. We’re always open to new ideas and help.
What was the vision of the club’s founders?
Our founders – Kata Vincetić, her husband, and Pero Đuić – wanted to create a welcoming place for Croatian retirees, where they could feel at home, speak their language, preserve their culture and traditions, and enjoy social interaction and mutual support.
What is the club’s main mission today?
Our mission remains the same – to provide support, companionship, and meaningful time for our members. We nurture Croatian heritage and bring people together who might otherwise be lonely or isolated.
What activities do you regularly organise for members?
At our gatherings, we play bocce, cards, and a popular dice game. We also share a communal dinner – I do most of the cooking myself, with help from a few wonderful women. We prepare traditional dishes like bean stew, flatbread, soups, and cakes. Occasionally, we host guest lectures organised by the Australian Croatian Community Services.
Celebrating Special Occasions
How do you mark special occasions?
We celebrate Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, the Feast of the Assumption (Marijin dan), and members’ birthdays. Birthday celebrants receive a bottle of wine and a muffin with a candle – it’s all prepared with great care. We’ll soon be celebrating St Anthony’s Day (Antunovo) as well.
Do you organise trips or cultural events?
Yes, we’ve organised trips – we’ve been to the Gold Coast and visited the Croatian community in Traralgon. These outings are always full of beautiful memories, though they can be more challenging for our older members.
How do you preserve the Croatian language and culture?
All our activities, gatherings, and communication are in Croatian. We keep traditions alive through music, cooking, and customs – this helps maintain our identity and stay connected to our homeland.
Welcoming and Supporting Members
How do you support new members and those in need?
Everyone is welcome. If someone wants to join, they can simply show up on a Thursday – they’ll be warmly welcomed. When someone passes away, we collect money for a wreath together. We also support sick members by visiting them or sending cards with well wishes. For example, if someone is in hospital, we send them a group get-well card.
Can you share a fond memory from your gatherings?
There are many, but I especially love seeing the smiles on members’ faces during birthday celebrations. The warmth, togetherness, and singing – it’s unforgettable. Our trips are always filled with joy and laughter too.
What does being part of Vila Velebita mean to your members?
For many, this club is more than just a club – it’s a second family. Many of our members live alone, but here they’ve found friendship, support, and a sense of purpose. It’s truly meaningful.
Volunteers and Their Contributions
Do you have volunteers who play a special role?
Yes, I have several women who help in the kitchen and with preparation. We also have members who assist with organising and administration. Everyone contributes in their own way, however they can.
What are your plans for the future?
We’d like to attract younger members – not necessarily retirees, but those willing to help and get involved. That’s how we can ensure the club’s future. We also have an upcoming general assembly where we’ll discuss plans and elect the new committee.
Joining the Club
How can someone become a member?
It’s very simple – just come to our Thursday gathering and join in. The membership fee is symbolic – $10 – and meals are also $10. We’re open to everyone and always happy to welcome new faces.
