Victory Day and Croatian Defenders Day – A Day of National Significance
Each year on 5th August, Croatia observes Victory Day and Homeland Thanksgiving Day, alongside Croatian Defenders Day. This national holiday commemorates one of the most pivotal moments in Croatian history – the liberation of the city of Knin during Operation Storm (Operacija Oluja) on 5th August 1995.
The Historic Operation Storm
Operation Storm began in the early morning hours of 4th August 1995, marking the start of Croatia’s largest military operation during the Croatian War of Independence. The operation continued with the liberation of Sveti Rok and numerous other towns across the occupied territory.
At precisely noon on 5th August, a momentous scene unfolded as a 20-metre Croatian flag was raised over Knin Fortress, symbolising the liberation of this strategically important city. The operation continued successfully over the following days, with 6th August seeing the liberation of Plaško, Lički Osik, Vrhovine, Obrovac, Korenica, Slunj, and Plitvice Lakes.
By 7th August, Operation Storm had concluded. In just 84 hours, Croatian forces had liberated 11,000 square kilometres of occupied territory. The Croatian Army and police forces successfully freed Gračac, Lovinac, Benkovac, Kijevo, Vrlika, Dubica, Primišlje near Slunj, and numerous transport routes, reaching Croatia’s internationally recognised border with Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Evolution of the Holiday
The significance of 5th August was formally recognised when it was designated as a state holiday – Victory Day and Homeland Thanksgiving Day – from 1996 to 2008. Legislative amendments to the Law on Holidays, Memorial Days and Non-Working Days in the Republic of Croatia on 15th May 2008 expanded the holiday’s scope, renaming it Victory Day and Homeland Thanksgiving Day and Croatian Defenders Day.
Commemorations in Australia
Thirty years after Operation Storm, Croatian communities worldwide continue to honour this historic achievement. Australian Croatian clubs are organising special celebrations to mark this significant milestone. Here’s what we’ve managed to gather from the announced events, and if you are also organising a celebration, please let us know!
Croatia Deakin Soccer Club Celebration
Croatia Deakin Soccer Club in Canberra is hosting a grand celebration on Saturday, 9th August 2025, to commemorate Victory Day and the 30th anniversary of Operation Storm. The evening promises to be a memorable celebration of Croatian heritage and history.
Event Details:
- Date: Saturday, 9th August 2025, 6:30 PM – Sunday, 10th August 2025, 1:00 AM
- Location: Croatia Deakin Soccer Club, 3 Grose Street, Deakin ACT 2600
- Tickets: $40 for adults, $20 for children under 13
The celebration includes drinks on arrival, a traditional spit-roast dinner followed by shared dessert platters, and live entertainment by Prva Liga Sydney.
Special Veterans’ Commemoration
Another significant event is being organised under the theme “Ako ne znaš šta je bilo” (If you don’t know what happened), focusing on remembrance, pride, and Croatian spirit. The celebration will be held at the WA Croatian Community Centre. This powerful evening will feature special guest veterans:
- Zoran Maras – Honorary President, Association of Special Police
- Siniša Troha – President, Croatian Guards Brigade Union
These distinguished veterans will share their experiences and remind attendees why this day remains so important to Croatian history and identity.
Booking Information: Given the limited seating, early reservations are essential. Contact details for bookings:
- Anthony Sumich: 0433 840 088
- Zrinka Nightingale: 0409 911 186
- Luka Ravlic: 0438 939 363
A Living Legacy
As Croatian communities gather to mark this 30th anniversary, they honour not only the successful military operation that secured Croatia’s territorial integrity but also the courage and sacrifice of all those who contributed to the nation’s independence. These commemorations serve as vital links between past and present, ensuring that the significance of Operation Storm continues to resonate with new generations of Croatians, both in the homeland and in diaspora communities worldwide.
Operation Storm: Rarely Seen Images
