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VOSA Sydney — Your Weekly Window into Slovenian Life
News, culture, community updates and more —online and on air.
If you would like to send a special message to a family member or friend, or listen to your favourite song on the next show, email vosaradio@outlook.com, or call 0400 533 009 no later than 5 pm every Tuesday.
Voice of Slovenian Australians Sydney is live every Saturday on 89.3 FM.
What is happening tomorrow on VOSA Radio?
We will hear more from the Unveiling of the restored Shrine and blessing of the St Raphael’s Garden of Remembrance last Sunday at Slovenian Lawn 2 Rookwood Cemetery. As usual, we will feature story, word and song of the week.
On this day in Slovenian History- 6th November
On 6 November 1997, Ljubljana’s Moderna Galerija (Museum of Modern Art) presented an exhibition titled Drevo (The Tree). The exhibition brought together works by Slovenian artists from different generations, all presented around the shared theme of the tree. The choice of the tree is particularly meaningful when viewed in the context of Slovenia’s cultural and natural heritage. Trees, forests and wooded landscapes are an enduring part of Slovenia’s identity, with forests covering between 58- 60 % of the country’s territory. Beyond their environmental importance, trees can also represent family roots, continuity, strength, growth and the connection between generations.
The exhibition’s theme therefore provides a lovely opportunity to reflect on the relationship between Slovenian art, nature and cultural heritage, and how artists can express these connections through their work.
Moderna galerija was established in 1947 and is one of Slovenia’s leading institutions dedicated to modern and contemporary art. Its exhibitions and collections document the development of Slovenian artistic expression and provide a window into the country’s changing cultural landscape.
The Latest: Key Features and Community Updates
- Remembering Mariža Ličan 25 Years On
- Honouring Faith, Service and Devotion: Unveiling of Restored Znamenje and Blessing of Garden of Remembrance
- Researching Slovenian Genealogy- Session with Silvia
- Applications Open for ASEF “ Visit Slovenia 2027” Scholarship Program
- Slovenian Events in the Illawarra- Discover | NEW
- Croatian-Slovenian Virtuoso Cellist and Composer Visiting Australia
Slovenian Organisations / Regular Weekly Updates
- Club Triglav Mounties
- St Raphael’s Slovenian Mission Merrylands
- Historical Archives of Slovenian Australians (HASA NSW)
- Slovenian Consulate NSW
- Slovenian Australian Association Canberra
- Slovenian Language Association QLD
Remembering Mariza Ličan (1942-2001) 25 Years On
Source: SBS Slovenian
Yesterday marked 25 years since the passing of Mariza Ličan, a highly respected and much-loved member of the Slovenian community, whose lifelong dedication to teaching, broadcasting and community service helped preserve and strengthen Slovenian language and cultural identity in Australia.
As a teacher at the Saturday Slovenian School at Club Triglav and Bankstown Girls High School, and through her time behind the microphone at 2EA and later SBS, Mariza made a lasting contribution to keeping generations of Australian Slovenians connected to their heritage and culture.
She helped nurture a sense of belonging, ensuring that the Slovenian language, traditions and cultural values continued to be shared and passed on.
Mariza understood the importance of ensuring that the radio, would continue so it could be enjoyed and present for future generations. For close to 30 years, we have been incredibly fortunate to have the remarkable talent, broadcasting expertise and dedication of Tania Smrdel, whose passion and unwavering commitment continue to keep the Slovenian language alive and culture celebrated across the airwaves, first through SBS Slovenian and now with VOSA Sydney.
Twenty-five years on, Mariza is fondly remembered for the knowledge and wisdom she passed on to generations, the community she helped nurture and strengthen and her tireless efforts in sustaining the culture in a country far away from her homeland.
Naj Marizina predanost, srčnost in ljubezen do slovenske skupnosti ter naše dediščine ostanejo večni navdih, njena luč pa naj še naprej sveti v naših srcih.
Spomini na Marizo Ličan ob 25. obletnici njene smrti – Peter Krope
Source: HASA NSW Archive
Honouring Faith, Service and Devotion: Unveiling of Restored Znamenje & Blessing of Garden of Remembrance
St Raphael’s Pastoral Council
On Sunday, November 1, the Slovenian community gathered at Rookwood Cemetery, Slovenian Lawn 2 for a special occasion of remembrance, reflection and gratitude. On the religious observances of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, we remembered our dearly departed, while celebrating the completion of a special project, initiated by Father Darko Žnidaršič OFM.
The morning commenced with Holy Mass at 10 a.m., celebrated by Provincial Father Stephen Bliss OFM in the Rookwood Cemetery Mausoleum, followed by the unveiling of the restored znamenje (Shrine) and the blessing of the St Raphael’s Garden of Remembrance at Slovenian Lawn 2. This special shrine honours the Slovenian priests and sisters who dedicated their lives to serving our Slovenian community in Sydney.
A heartfelt thank you to Josie Modrijančič for leading the program with such warmth and compassion, making the occasion all the more special and meaningful. It was wonderful to see the appreciation and joy of so many following the unveiling of the restored znamenje.
What began in early March as an initiative to restore the memorial grew into a collective effort of planning, fundraising and countless hours of hard work. Today, that vision has come to life, a new commemorative plaque and fresh plantings and landscaping transforming the grounds. Inspired by Father Darko, the completed garden reflects his vision of creating a lasting place of remembrance and connection.
Read the full article by clicking the link below.
Researching Slovenian Genealogy – Session with Silvia
Date: Thursday 19 November 2026
Time: 7.30pm to 8.30pm (Australian Eastern Daylight Time – AEDT)
Venue: Zoom
For Slovenian descendants in Australia (or elsewhere) who are interested in family tree research and are looking for some internet links and information.
Attendance is free, but only people who have registered by sending me their contact details will be allowed into the Zoom session to protect all attendees. The Zoom ID and passcode will be sent as confirmation of your booking.
More information, please click the below button.
Applications Open for the ASEF “Visit Slovenia 2027” Scholarship Program
The American-Slovenian Education Foundation (ASEF) has opened applications for the “Visit Slovenia 2027” scholarship program. This program offers young people of Slovenian descent from around the world the opportunity to gain valuable professional experience, get to know Slovenia, and strengthen ties to the homeland of their ancestors. Applications are open until November 29, 2026.
The call for applications is open to students from various fields of study, as well as other young people of Slovenian descent living abroad. Knowledge of the Slovenian language is recommended, but it is not sufficient for an application.
The application deadline is November 29, 2026.
More information about the program, application requirements, an process is available on the organiser’s website: https://asef.net/visit-slovenia/.
Click the below button for the press release.
Slovenian Events in the Illawarra- St Nicholas Day
VOSA are so proud to begin featuring content and notices from Slovenian Events in the Illawarra who do a brillant job at bringing the community together and sustaining the culture in this region.
To stay updated with their upcoming events and notices, email slov.eitill@gmail.com to be added to their mailing list.
Come and celebrate St Nicholas Day with other Slovenians In The Illawarra.
Lunch with St Nick on Sunday the 6th of December
Starting from midday (12PM) at the German Club Berkeley
(636A Northcliffe Dr, Kembla Grange NSW 2526).
St Nicholas will bring sweets for the kids and the young of heart.
You will also be able to take a selfie with St Nick.
Hope to see you there…
Bring the kids or the grandkids.
To book PLEASE email: planica.figtree@gmail.com
Telling us how many people will be attending
Croatian-Slovenian Virtuoso Cellist and Composer Visiting Australia
Keep Updated with what’s happening in Slovenia
and local organisations in Sydney
Triglav Mounties Group
Contact details
Email: triglav.reception@mountiesgroup com.au
Phone: (02) 9426 1000
St Nicholas Day- Sunday 6th December
Your Special Events
Triglav Mounties is available to host your family celebrations, including birthdays, baptisms and other special occasions.
Bookings are essential.
(02) 9426 1000
St Raphael’s Slovenian Mission Merrylands
Email: slomission.sydney@gmail.com
Phone: 0455 444 912
Sunday 8th of November is the 32nd Sunday of the year. There will be no holy mass this Sunday at Merrylands.
Please note that every Friday and Sunday, Slovenian Mission Melbourne Facebook page broadcast mass at 10am, except for the first Sunday of the month when Pater Simon Peter is in Sydney.
Father Simon Peter will bless Slovenian Lawn 1 on Monday, 23 November, at 11 am for those wishing to attend.
Slovenian Mass will be celebrated on the first Sunday of each month at 9.30 am as well as on other occasions when announced, with an exception for this month where Holy mass will be held on the 22nd November. On this day the hall will be open for coffee, cakes and narezek only. The following Sunday after mass on the 6th December, the hall will also be open and on this Sunday lunch will be served.
There will be no mass on Christmas Day at Merrylands. However, Pater Simon Peter will say mass on the following day, Boxing Day – Stefanovanje at 10:30am. (26th December)
For those who have been receiving the Rafael Magazine, please be advised that the publication will unfortunately be discontinued. We encourage readers to subscribe to Misli Magazine, a valuable bimonthly publication serving the Slovenian community throughout Australia. It provides important news, information and updates relevant for our community. If you are not currently receiving Misli Magazine and would like to subscribe, please contact Father Simon Peter on 0455 444 912.
For the funerals of our deceased, please contact Fr Simon Peter Berlec OFM on 0455 444 912. He will provide you with the necessary information and take the details for MISLI.
Osmrtnice (Death Notices)
Jože Kapušin | 89 Years
Born: 26 July 1937 – Radovica, Slovenia
Passed away: 27 October 2026 – Canberra, Australia | Tuesday, 10 November 2026| 11:00 am
St Monica’s Church Evatt, Canberra
A wake will follow at the Slovenian Australian Association Canberra.
It is with profound sadness that we farewell Jože Kapušin, one of our foundation members, whose selfless contribution to the Slovenian communities of Melbourne and Canberra will never be forgotten.Jože was dedicated to preserving our Slovenian heritage, language and culture.
Some of his remarkable contributions included:
- Helping Slovenian immigrants settle in Australia alongside Pater Basil.
- Establishing the Slovenian language school at Kew Church and teaching in Canberra.
- Organising Slovenian dancing and cultural activities in both Melbourne and Canberra.
- Serving as editor of Slovenski Vesnik for eight years.
- Contributing to Slovenian radio and community broadcasting.
- Serving as President and Secretary of the Slovenian Australian Association of Canberra in its early days, helping establish and strengthen our community.
- Always being willing to share his knowledge of Slovenian culture and the history of those who came to Australia, helping our Association preserve its heritage.
Maria Vrh | 91 Years
V ponedeljek, 2. novembra 2026, v starosti 91 let je umrla Maria Vrh. Pogrebna sveta maša bo v sredo, 11. novembra, ob 11. uri v severni kapeli ( North Chapel) pokopališča Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Camden Valley Way, Leppingtonu. Po maši bo pokojnica upepeljena.
Historical Archives of Slovenian Australians (HASA NSW)
The Historical Archives of Slovenian Australians in New South Wales (HASA NSW) has established the Fr Darko Žnidaršič Library and Continues to build on it, with exciting new additions coming soon.
Whether you’re looking for inspiration, relaxation, or simply a good book, we invite you to browse our collection.
Especially on Sundays, when the hall is open for coffee and cake after Mass, Why not take a few moments to browse the library with family and friends?
Location:Behind the stage in the Father Valerijan Jenko Memorial Hall.
When: At your leisure whenever the hall is open.
Please feel free to borrow a book, and remember to register your borrowing in the record book provided.
Slovenian Consulate NSW
Honorary Consuls and Vice Consuls serve as Slovenia’s official representatives. They work under the supervision of the Slovenian Embassy in Canberra, unpaid and part time.
For General Information and queries related to Slovenia, please send an email to ConsulateSlovenia.Sydney@gmail.com.
Alternatively, call Honorary Consul Aleks Lajovic on 0407 678 578 or Honorary Vice Consul Mark Stariha on 0404 464 727.
Slovenian Australian Association Canberra
Email:admin@slovenianclubcanberra.org.au
Phone: (02) 6282 1083
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Hearts & Hands – Sveti Martin & Reunion – Saturday 14th November
Celebrate our volunteers, Slovenian traditions and community connections with an evening of live music by Alpine Echoes, Sveti Martin festivities, the blessing of the new wine, food and wine pairings, and our Decorate Your Heart Christmas activity for all ages.
- Members: Free entry
- Non-members: $20 per person, including live music and christmas decoration activity
- Food and beverages available to purchase
- RSVP by Saturday 7 November 2026
Cherry Picking in Cherry Picking Day Trip Young-
Sunday 22nd November A Day Trip in November
Great news! Our Cherry Picking Day Trip to Young is confirmed and going ahead.
Enjoy a visit to Ballinaclash Orchard and Cellar Door, cherry picking, wine tasting, farm animals and free time to explore Young.
- Coach cost for members: $45 per person
- Further trip and payment details will be provided to registered participants.
If you haven’t registered yet, please get in touch as soon as possible. We look forward to a fantastic day together!
Miklavž Christmas Celebration- Sunday 6th December
Bring the family and celebrate one of Slovenia’s favourite Christmas traditions!
- Doors open: 12 noon
- Miklavž arrives: 2:30 pm
- Gingerbread activity: 3:30 pm
- Children: Free
- Adults: Donation appreciated for the gingerbread activity.
Food and drinks will be available to purchase. Parents are asked to bring a labelled gift for their child. The club will also provide a gift for every child. Please RSVP to help us prepare.
Introducing Naša Miza: The Slovenian Australian Cookbook
We’re inviting Slovenian Australians from every state and territory to help create something truly special—a cookbook that celebrates our food, our families, and the stories that have travelled from Slovenia to Australia.
Contact Natasha via the admin email address to contribute to Naša Miza: The Slovenian Australian Cookbook.
SLCA – Learn Slovenian Let’s Preserve our Language!
Email: slovenianlanguage.qld@gmail.com
Slovenian Language and Culture Association QLD (SLCA QLD)
offers 7 engaging online classes,
including two for young learners.
7:00 a.m. Sunday (QLD time): For beginners—kids learn Slovenian through songs, games, and basic grammar.
8:00 a.m. Sunday: For children aged 9+ with some Slovenian knowledge.
Adults: can choose from two advanced beginner classes, one intermediate class, or a 60-hour intensive beginner course.
VOSA Sydney is Supported by:
