Croatian Cultural Association Geelong celebrates 20 years in Australia
- by croatiaweek
- in Entertainment
(Photo credit: Marina Lončarić/Marlo Media)
The Croatian Cultural Association Cardinal Alojzije Stepinac Geelong in Australia has marked a major milestone, celebrating 20 years of preserving and promoting Croatian culture.
The anniversary event, held on 1 March 2025 at the Croatian Community Centre Geelong, brought together the local community for a night of tradition, entertainment, and recognition.
A packed venue reflected the strong connection Croatian Australians have with their heritage.
Since its founding in 2004, the association has been a pillar of cultural life in Victoria, hosting language programs, cooking classes, and fundraising events supporting both local and international causes.
(Photo credit: Marina Lončarić/Marlo Media)
(Photo credit: Marina Lončarić/Marlo Media)
One of its standout achievements includes the bilingual cookbook My Mother’s Kitchen / Kuhinja moje majke, which has sold over 5,000 copies worldwide and features artwork by renowned Australian-Croatian artist Charles Billich.
(Photo credit: Marina Lončarić/Marlo Media)
The evening opened with a performance by LADO Geelong, who set the tone with stirring renditions of the Australian and Croatian national anthems.
Distinguished guests included Croatian Ambassador Her Excellency Betty Pavelich, Consul General Joseph Gene Petric, State MP for Lara Ella George, and City of Greater Geelong councillor Eddy Kontelj. Among other key attendees were representatives from Croatian cultural organisations, sports clubs, and community groups.
(Photo credit: Marina Lončarić/Marlo Media)
President of the Croatian Cultural Association, Mrs. Katica Perinac, expressed gratitude to past and present committee members for their dedication and hard work in shaping the association over the past two decades.
(Photo credit: Marina Lončarić/Marlo Media)
A highlight of the evening was the live entertainment, featuring music from Major Minor and a comedy performance by internationally renowned Joe Avati.
A wine and sausage-tasting competition showcased the culinary traditions of the community, with winners including Niko Sučić (sausages) and Marija Ćosić (wine). A panel of judges, including Cr. Eddy Kontelj, had the challenging task of selecting the best entries.
(Photo credit: Marina Lončarić/Marlo Media)
Ivan Kolar was second and Marija Ćosić was third in the sausage-tasting competition, whilst Ljubica Akmačić and Ratko Marinović took second and third respectively in the wine-tasting competition.
(Photo credit: Marina Lončarić/Marlo Media)
Guests also had the chance to win high-end prizes in the evening’s raffle draw, featuring items such as a KitchenAid mixer, Le Creuset cookware, and a silver ring. A standout moment was the auction of Charles Billich’s Croatica, depicting Queen Catherine of Bosnia, a significant cultural figure.
(Photo credit: Marina Lončarić/Marlo Media)
The event’s success was made possible by generous sponsors, including the Central State Office for Croats Abroad and the City of Greater Geelong.
Raffle sponsors also came from the Croatian Community Centre, North Geelong Warriors, Siketa Meats, Association of Croatian Language Teachers, HKUD Lado, Charles Billich, Ivan Pajic and Blaz Gotovac, Croatia Lastovo Association, Steve and Tina Horvat, Statewide Ventilation, Chetkah Hair and Pakington Pantry.
(Photo credit: Marina Lončarić/Marlo Media)
(Photo credit: Marina Lončarić/Marlo Media)
A special thank you was given to Snježana Demo from Vanilla Junkie for preparing the stunning anniversary cake, as well as Marina Lončarić from Marlo Media for capturing the event’s highlights through photography.
A special thank you was also given to the Croatian Community Centre Geelong for its unwavering support in hosting this milestone event and for its continued dedication to preserving and promoting Croatian culture in Geelong.
(Photo credit: Marina Lončarić/Marlo Media)
Guests also received a limited-edition 20th Anniversary Commemorative Tea Towel, designed by community member Melinda Skoko.
(Photo credit: Marina Lončarić/Marlo Media)
A warm thank you also went out to Townhouse Living for the breathtaking floral arrangements that adorned the venue. Their elegant and thoughtfully designed floral displays added a touch of beauty and sophistication, enhancing the atmosphere of this special celebration.
(Photo credit: Marina Lončarić/Marlo Media)
Also, a heartfelt thank you went out to Pop Hire Queen for the stunning backdrop that provided a beautiful and elegant setting for the celebration.
(Photo credit: Marina Lončarić/Marlo Media)
With a strong foundation built on tradition and community spirit, the Croatian Cultural Association Geelong looks forward to continuing its mission for years to come. The night ended with a sense of pride, unity, and excitement for the future.
