Adelaide celebrates 50 years of Croatian Radio Hour and 60 years of Croatian Ethnic School

(Photo: The Croatian Club Adelaide)

The Croatian community in South Australia will come together on Saturday 2 May 2026 to celebrate two remarkable milestones, the 50th anniversary of the Croatian Radio Hour and the 60th anniversary of the Croatian Ethnic School (Škola).

The joint celebration will be held at the Croatian Club Adelaide Inc., bringing together community members, supporters, and dignitaries to honour the enduring contributions of these two important institutions.

For decades, both the Croatian Radio Hour and the Croatian Ethnic School have played a vital role in preserving and promoting Croatian language, culture, and identity in Adelaide.

Generations of Croatian Australians have benefited from their work, whether through learning the Croatian language at school or staying connected to their heritage through Croatian voices and music on the radio.

The Croatian Ethnic School was originally established in 1961 but closed for several years due to low enrolments before reopening in 1966, after which it has operated continuously.

The school around 1975 (Photo: The Croatian Club Adelaide)

Its success is thanks to the dedication and vision of members of the Croatian community who recognised the importance of teaching younger generations the Croatian language and cultural traditions.

Over the past sixty years, the school has educated hundreds of students, helping them develop a deeper understanding of their heritage and maintain a strong connection to their cultural roots.

The ongoing commitment of teachers, volunteers, and families has ensured the school remains an important and valued part of the Croatian community in South Australia.

Similarly, the Croatian Radio Hour has been a cornerstone of community life since its establishment in 1976. Broadcast on multicultural radio, the program has provided news, music, interviews, and community information to listeners for five decades.

School teachers in the 1980s (Photo: The Croatian Club Adelaide)

The program has not only connected Croatian Australians locally but has also served as a bridge between Croatia and the diaspora, sharing stories and events important to the community.

(Photo: The Croatian Club Adelaide)

The anniversary celebration on Saturday 2nd May will be an evening of reflection, gratitude, and celebration. Guests will enjoy a dinner and short program recognising the history and achievements of both institutions.

(Photo: The Croatian Club Adelaide)

The night will also feature entertainment by Grupa Akord, ensuring a festive atmosphere as the community celebrates these significant anniversaries together.

Josip Barac, Dragica Sarunic, Ljerka Drapac, Mariana Sarunic, Tayla Hume (Photo: The Croatian Club Adelaide)

Events such as this highlight the strength and unity of the Croatian community in Adelaide.

(Photo: The Croatian Club Adelaide)

For over half a century, both the Croatian Radio Hour and the Croatian Ethnic School have helped keep the Croatian language, traditions, and cultural identity alive for future generations.

(Photo: The Croatian Club Adelaide)

The Croatian Club Adelaide says it is proud to host this special celebration and honour the legacy of two institutions that have contributed so much to its community. They warmly invite members of the community to join them for this memorable evening.

5EBI-FM at Multicultural Festival Vlasta Krizaj, Josip Ivka (Photo: The Croatian Club Adelaide)

“If you are a former student of the Croatian School or have been involved with the Croatian Radio Hour, it would be wonderful to celebrate this milestone together. Tickets are available at the Croatian Club Adelaide Inc. on Fridays and Sundays, or by calling Sandra on 0438 047 673,” they said.