Celebrating 75 years of Croatian community at the Croatian Club Adelaide

by croatiaweek
May 29, 2025
in Entertainment

Croatian Club Adelaide hosted a sold-out Gala Ball, commemorating 75 years since its founding

By Jana Adžić

On Saturday 26 April 2025, the Croatian Club Adelaide hosted a sold-out Gala Ball, commemorating 75 years since its founding on 25 April 1950. What began as a vision shared by a small group of Croatian immigrants has grown into one of the most enduring and proud symbols of Croatian identity in Australia.

That founding generation—united in purpose—established more than a club. They created a sanctuary for future waves of migrants, a place to nurture culture, language, tradition, and faith in a new homeland. As the first Croatian Club established in Australia, their example laid the foundation for Croatian communities throughout South Australia and beyond.

Club VP Dijana Adzic, Club Pres Marijan Cubelic

Club VP Dijana Adzic, Club President Marijan Cubelic

Building a Legacy (1950–1970s)

In the early years, members worked tirelessly to raise funds—first acquiring and renovating the old Salvation Army citadel on Chief Street, Bowden, and later building the present-day clubrooms in Brompton. Their eorts extended beyond bricks and mortar to build a thriving community and haven for all members of the wider community.

Dignitaries

Historical Displays HFS Lenek 3

Key initiatives during this time included the formation of the Adelaide Croatia Soccer Club (1952), the Croatian Folklore group (1951), and the Croatian Ethnic School (1966), Australia’s oldest continuously running Croatian school. The Women’s Auxiliary, Hrvatska Žena Katarina Zrinski, was founded in 1974 to support club activities and provide humanitarian aid, playing a crucial role especially during the Croatian Homeland War.

Dr Damir Culic, Jeanette Culic

George Božanić, Andrija Levak, Sonja Božanić, Marijana Levak, Ante Kolar, Peter Fižulić, Irena Fižulić.

Cultural Foundations and National Pride

From its earliest days, the Club has been a centre for Croatian language, dance, and tradition. Folklore, now embodied in HFS Lenek—the largest Croatian dance ensemble in Australia—first performed in 1951 at the Adelaide Town Hall.

HFS Lenek

Historical Displays HFS Lenek

The soccer club became a symbol of unity and pride, not only for its achievements but for its inclusive spirit, being one of the first in South Australia to welcome Indigenous players, including Charles Perkins.

Historical soccer displays

The Croatian Ethnic School continues to preserve language, history, and cultural customs through longstanding traditions like Mother’s Day and St. Nicholas celebrations. Meanwhile, the Women’s Auxiliary raised critical funds during the war in the 1990s, hosting events and rallying support for those displaced.

Branka Muzinic, Ivanka Sumanovic

Celebrations

When Croatia Called, We Answered

Throughout the Homeland War, the Club stood united in its support for the Croatian people. From peaceful protests at Parliament House to tireless fundraising efforts, the Adelaide Croatian community made its voice heard and its presence felt. And when Croatia was finally recognised, the celebrations at the Dom were unforgettable.

Katarina Hudjek, Elisa Božanić, Jackie Bogdanović, Nina Božanić, Drina Veljača

Lottery Draw

A Night to Remember – The 75th Anniversary Gala

The anniversary Gala Ball was a powerful moment of reflection and pride. Hosted by second, third, and fourth-generation community members, the evening featured speeches from key dignitaries, including the Governor of South Australia and leaders from the South Australian Government and Parliament.

Major Minor

Thanks were extended to long-time supporters, sponsors, and volunteers, both past and present. Guests enjoyed traditional dance performances by HFS Lenek, live music into the early hours, and a moving tribute to all who shaped the Club across generations.

HFS Lenek

Looking Ahead – Croatian History Festival 2025

The Gala also marked the oicial launch of the Croatian History Festival Adelaide 2025, a year-long celebration of Croatian contributions to South Australian society. This includes exhibitions, storytelling projects, community tours, and the publication of a commemorative book.

Merch Stand

A historical exhibition at the Club, opened as part of the Gala, will remain open to the public until Sunday 15 June, following the 75th Anniversary Lunch.

Honouring Our Life Members

While it is impossible to name every contributor over the past 75 years, a heartfelt tribute was paid to those formally recognised as Life Members. These individuals helped shape the heart and soul of the Club with their dedication and sacrifice.

A Legacy That Lives On

The Croatian Club Adelaide is more than a building. It is a testament to sacrifice, unity, and love for one’s heritage. Its halls echo with laughter, tradition, and stories of resilience. It remains a proud symbol of identity, standing strong after 75 years—and ready for the future.

More photos from the event below.