40 years of Croatian tradition: George Franulović’s remarkable folklore journey down under

George Franulovic (Photo: AHFG Linđo)

George Franulović has marked 40 years of continuous service to the Australian Croatian Folkloric Group Linđo, a milestone that has taken him from the dance floor as an eight-year-old to some of Australia’s most recognisable stages.

With family roots in Blato on the island of Korčula, Franulović has spent four decades helping preserve Croatian folklore and musical tradition in Australia.

His journey with Linđo began as a dancer when he was just eight years old. As a teenager, he moved into music and has remained one of the group’s longest-serving musicians ever since.

Over the years, he has performed throughout Australia, from Croatian community clubs to the Sydney Opera House, as well as on live television with several major networks.

The milestone was celebrated at this year’s Father’s Day Zabava, where Franulović was surprised with a special celebration organised by the Linđo committee.

He had no idea the evening was being planned for him.

“I had a feeling I might get a mention at one of the zabava sometime this year, especially after I showed a picture of my very first trophy a few months ago,” Franulović said.

George Franulovic and David Saliba (Photo: AHFG Linđo)

“But little did I know they had actually been planning this since February, with my wife in on it from the very beginning!”

Certificates of recognition were presented during the celebration by Federal Member for Fowler Dai Le MP, State Member for Fairfield David Saliba MP and State Member for Liverpool Charishma Kaliyanda MP.

Frank Carbone, Mayor of Fairfield City, and the Minister for Multiculturalism, Steve Kamper MP, also provided recognition for the milestone, while Kaliyanda secured a mention of Franulović’s 40-year contribution in the New South Wales Parliamentary Hansard.

Guest performers Braća Radić also joined the celebration, continuing a musical connection with Linđo’s musicians built up over the years.

(Photo: AHFG Linđo)

Franulović paid tribute to the people behind the surprise, including Linđo president and committee members, with particular thanks to Emily Gabris for helping organise the evening and gather photographs and memories from his four decades with the group.

“I was really surprised when I found out just how much organising had gone on behind the scenes by the Linđo committee to make this such a special night celebrating my 40 years of service and dedication,” he said.

His wife Carol was also part of the surprise. The pair met after Franulović took up dancing with another folkloric group. They went on to raise two daughters, Bianca and Sienna, who grew up around Linđo and now perform with the group themselves.

Looking back, Franulović said one conversation during the celebration helped put his contribution into perspective.

A friend told him: “Without you there is no music for Linđo. Without you, the groups can’t perform.”

George and Charishma Kaliyanda (Photo: AHFG Linđo)

The friend compared his role to that of a goalkeeper in football, someone whose absence can prevent the game from going ahead.

“That conversation really struck a chord with me,” Franulović said.

During his four decades with Linđo, he has watched generations of dancers, musicians, teachers and committee members come through the organisation.

“I have seen countless committee members, dancing teachers and fellow musicians put in their time, effort and heart to keep our Croatian heritage alive,” he said.

He has also helped mentor younger musicians, including current Linđo musician Marko Fry, passing on knowledge and experience to the next generation.

Among his many performances, one remains particularly memorable.

(Photo: AHFG Linđo)

“I think my favourite place I have ever performed would have to be the Sydney Opera House back in 1987,” he said.

“It was only my second year dancing at Linđo, and we got to perform at one of the most iconic places in Sydney.”

Linđo itself was established more than five decades ago when a group of friends in Sydney created a folkloric group where members of the Croatian community could meet, build friendships and learn Croatian folklore.

Franulović’s 40-year journey has therefore covered much of the group’s history, including its own 50th anniversary celebrations several years ago.

He has also seen the impact of that community continue through his own family.

(Photo: AHFG Linđo)

“I still can’t believe that of the 52 years Linđo has been around, I have been a member for 40 of those years, and now I’ve watched my daughters grow up dancing with Linđo too,” he said.

For Franulović, the journey is not over.

“So, what’s next? I guess I’ll just keep playing with my brothers for as long as I can and hopefully, we can inspire the next generation of musicians to join Linđo and keep the tradition going,” he said.

Looking back on four decades, he said the number of memories, friendships, performances and travels made the years difficult to measure.

“I’m very proud to have been a part of Linđo for 40 years, and hopefully there are still a few more years of playing, travelling and making memories to come!”

“Hvala svima who have been part of the journey.”

(Photo: AHFG Linđo)