A window into the heart of the Slovenian community, VOSA is a celebration of culture, stories, and a journey through the heart of Slovenian life in Australia.
Bled and Bohinj Connected by New Scenic Cycling Path

Photo: Tinkara Zupan, STA

Photo: I feel Slovenia
A new 28-kilometre cycling route now provides a mostly traffic-free connection between Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj, following the scenic Sava Bohinjka River through forests, meadows and Alpine villages. The route makes it easier for cyclists of all abilities to visit both of Slovenia’s iconic Alpine lakes in a single trip, with Bled offering vibrant lakeside attractions and Bohinj providing peaceful access to Triglav National Park. While a few short sections are still being completed, the new EUR 25 million route significantly improves cycling between the two destinations.
On this Day in Slovenian History: August 7

Photo: Museums of the World
On 7 August 1897, the Narodni dom (National Hall) in Celje was officially opened, becoming an important centre of Slovenian cultural and social life. Built through the efforts of local Slovenes, the building represented the growing importance of Slovenian language, education and cultural activities in a city with strong national tensions at the time.
VOSA brings it all together—stay informed, engaged, and connected.

Want to catch up on the latest episode of VOSA Radio?
What is happening on VOSA Radio tomorrow?
We will be joined by our BMX riders who recently competed for Australia at the World Championships. We will also hear more about the All Generations Reunion happening next Sunday at Club Triglav Mounties. As usual, we will feature story, song and word of the week, along with plenty of Slovenian music.
Summary of this week’s VOSA Notices:
Key Feature Highlights this week in VOSA Notices
- The Latest from the Office of Slovenians Abroad and Around the World
- North Eastern Slovenia: Four Hidden Gems Worth Visiting
- Slovenia Claims First EuroBasket Title: Recap by Zac Limare
- Important Information for Slovenian Citizens: Translation of Documents- Slovenian to English
- St Raphael’s Pastoral Council: Lunch and Movie Afternoon
Slovenian Organisations / Regular Weekly Updates
- Club Triglav Mounties- Reunion Event
- Historical Archives of Slovenian Australians – HASA NSW: Borrow, Read and Enjoy- Come and Visit the HASA NSW Library
- St Raphael’s Slovenian Mission Merrylands- Weekly Updates
- Consular Assistance NSW
- Slovenian Australian Association Canberra- Naša Miza and Interest in Folklore Classes
- Slovenian Language Association QLD- Weekly Classes
- Seeking more information on Slovenia or our Community? Scroll down to explore the range of links.
The Latest from the Office of Slovenians Abroad and Around the World
Meeting of Three Slovenians – Srečanje treh Slovenij
Svete Višarje


State Secretary Helena Jaklitsch attended the annual Srečanje treh Slovenij (Meeting of Three Slovenians) pilgrimage to Svete Višarje. In her address, she highlighted that this longstanding tradition has for decades, symbolised the enduring connection between Slovenians in the homeland, neighbouring countries, and around the world, demonstrating that belonging to the Slovenian nation extends beyond national borders.
She also expressed her sincere appreciation to everyone dedicated to preserving the Slovenian language, culture and identity within Slovenian communities abroad. She reaffirmed that the Office for Slovenians Abroad and Around the World (Urad Vlade Republike Slovenije za Slovence v Zamejstvu in Po Svetu) will continue to be a trusted partner in strengthening relationships with Slovenians worldwide.
Raising the Klopotec – A Tradition That Brings People Together

The Korpič Homestead was the setting for the traditional raising of the klopotec, organised by the Soviče–Dravci Cultural Society. The event was attended by the Minister for Slovenians Abroad and Around the World, Suzana Lep Šimenko.She expressed her gratitude to the organisers, volunteers, and everyone whose dedication helps preserve Slovenia’s cultural heritage and ensures it is passed on to future generations.
The klopotec, a distinctive wooden vineyard rattle, is a cherished symbol of Slovenia’s wine-growing regions. It represents respect for the hard work of past generations, the country’s rich cultural heritage and traditions that continue to be passed from one generation to the next.
Events such as the raising of the klopotec play an important role in preserving Slovenian customs, strengthening cultural identity and bringing communities together.
Photos : Office of Slovenians Abroad and Around The World
Northern Eastern Slovenia: Four Hidden Gems Worth Visiting

Photo: I Feel Slovenia
1. Goričko Landscape Park – Castles, Forests & Rural Charm
Located in Slovenia’s northeast corner, Goričko is a peaceful region of forests, gentle hills and traditional villages. Visit Grad Castle, explore scenic walking , cycling routes and enjoy the untouched countryside that makes this one of Slovenia’s most relaxing regions.
https://www.park-goricko.org
2. Rogatec – Traditional Villages & Living Heritage
Rogatec offers an authentic look at Slovenia’s rural traditions and craftsmanship. Explore the Rogatec Open-Air Museum, discover historic village life and experience traditional skills such as blacksmithing, pottery and local food production.
https://www.rogatec.si/en
3. Slovenske Gorice – Rolling Hills & Authentic Countryside
A beautiful landscape of vineyards, forests and small villages between Maribor and Ptuj. Drive scenic countryside roads, visit family-run farms, taste local wines and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of one of Slovenia’s most charming rural areas.
https://visitgorice.si/
4. Šentjur – Music Heritage & Old Town Charm
A small historic town with a strong cultural identity, known as the birthplace of Slovenia’s famous composer Gustav Ipavec. Wander the old town, visit museums and discover the traditions of the Šentjur countryside.
https://turizem-sentjur.com/en/
Slovenian Claims First EuroBasket Title: Recap by Zac Limare

Slovenia’s golden generation continues to shine, with the country’s Under-18 men’s basketball team claiming its first-ever FIBA U18 EuroBasket title after a dominant 88-71 victory over host nation Italy. Seventeen-year-old Stefan Joksimović starred in the final with 24 points, eight rebounds and five assists, earning tournament MVP honours after averaging more than 23 points per game. Lukas Bojović added 21 points in the decider, while Slovenia finished the tournament with six wins from seven matches, including impressive knockout victories over Spain and Italy.
The triumph comes just two weeks after Slovenia’s Under-20 men’s team captured the European championship on home soil, making Slovenia only the fourth nation in history to win both the U18 and U20 EuroBasket titles in the same year. Joining Serbia, Spain and Turkey in that exclusive club, Slovenia’s remarkable youth success highlights the exciting talent emerging through its basketball ranks and provides plenty of optimism for the future of the senior national team.
Important Information for Slovenian Citizens:
Translators – Slovenian ↔ English
The Consulate and Embassy cannot provide translations.
For official use in Slovenia, translations must be completed and stamped by a
NAATI-accredited translator.
For legal matters (inheritance, property, court documents), only accredited translators should be used.
How it usually works:
Find a translator via the NAATI directory
• Online Directory – NAATI Email the document and request a quote
After payment, the translator:
• Translates the document
• Emails a draft for checking
• Posts the stamped original translation
Google Translate: Google Translate
Useful to understand the general meaning
Not acceptable for any official or legal purpose
Lunch & Movie Afternoon- Sunday 23rd August Organised by St Raphael’s Pastoral Council


Triglav Mounties Group
Contact details
Phone: 02 9426 1000, Fax: 02 9823 2522
Email: triglavinfo@mountiesgroup.com.au
Web: www.mountiesgroup.com.au
Trading Hours
Sunday to Thursday: 10.00am – 12.00am – Friday & Saturday: 10.00am – 3.30am
Triglav Mounties GroupTriglav Mounties Group
Celebrate Slovenian heritage at Triglav!
You are invited to the Reunion of all Generations on Sunday 16th August.
Join us on as we honour our rich heritage, traditions, and stories of our community.
Take a trip down memory lane, reconnect with old friends, and celebrate alongside the second and third generations who proudly continue to keep the Slovenian spirit alive.Don’t miss this special gathering filled with culture, friendship, and Slovenian pride.
Bookings are essential. Call the club to reserve your table today.
Club Triglav Mounties invites members and friends to the blessing of the young olive tree. After 53 years, this new tree replaces the original olive tree—a symbol of peace—which was blessed by Slovenian Bishop Dr. Stanislav Lenič in January 1973 during the blessing of the club’s new grounds. The blessing of the olive tree will take place on Sunday, August 16, at 2:00 PM, during the “Reunion of All Generations” event. The ceremony will be led by Father Darko Žnidaršič OFM.

Regular Events
Triglav Bistro
Lunch: Daily, 10 AM – 3 PM
Dinner: 5 PM – 9 PM
Bingo
Every Monday, Tuesday & Thursday mornings at 10 AM
Trivia Night: Every Wednesday evening
Meat Raffle: Every Friday evening
Your Special Events
Triglav Mounties is available to host your family celebrations such
as birthdays,baptisms and the like.
Booking’s Essential. Tel.(02) 9426 1000
Historical Archives Slovenian Australians New South Wales ( HASA NSW)

Borrow, Read, Enjoy – Come and Visit the HASA NSW Library
The Historical Archives of Slovenian Australians New South Wales (HASA NSW) has created a community library for the parishioners of St Raphael’s to enjoy.
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.
So, next time you’re at St Raphael’s ,why not stop by the HASA NSW Community Library and explore the collection? You never know what hidden gem you might discover.
Happy reading!
St Raphael’s Slovenian Mission Merrylands

Email: slomission.sydney@gmail.com
Phone: 0409 074 760
Tedenske Novice
Pater Darko Informs :
Sunday 9th August is the 19th Sunday of the year.
Holy Mass will be celebrated at 4:00 PM in Figtree (Wollongong).
Next Saturday is the Feast of the Assumption of Mary. Holy Mass will be celebrated at 9:30 AM and 6:00 PM.
Slovenian Consular Assistance
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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Introducing Naša Miza: The Slovenian Australian Cookbook – Your Family Recipe Could Be Published!
Every Recipe Tells a Story. Every Story Brings Us Home.
Do you have a treasured family recipe that’s been passed down through generations?
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.
We’d love you to share:
- A favourite family recipe
- A short story about the recipe—who made it, when it was enjoyed, or why it holds a special place in your family
- A photo of the finished dish, your family, a treasured handwritten recipe card, or a special memory connected to your story
- If your recipe has been adapted for Australian ingredients, measurements or our climate, we’d love you to include those tips too. Tell us what substitutions you’ve made, any measurement conversions, or techniques you’ve found work best in Australian kitchens so others can successfully recreate your family favourite.
Our dream is to include recipes and stories from every Australian state and territory, showcasing the incredible diversity of the Slovenian Australian community from coast to coast.
Share your recipe. Share your story. Help us create a cookbook that every Slovenian Australian family will be proud to call their own.
Have a treasured family recipe to share? Contact Natasha via the admin email address to contribute to Naša Miza: The Slovenian Australian Cookbook.
Click the below for the full post on the SAAC facebook page and to view the flyer.
Interested in Learning Slovenian Folk Dancing ?
Following the success of the workshop, we are exploring the possibility of establishing monthly Slovenian Folk Dance classes in Canberra and perhaps Sydney as well led by a local teacher.
This would be a wonderful opportunity to:
- Learn traditional Slovenian dances
- Connect with Slovenian culture and heritage
- Meet new people and make friends
- Enjoy a fun and active social activity
- Help preserve an important part of our cultural traditions
No previous dance experience is required, and people of all ages are welcome to express their interest.
Expressions of Interest Now Open
Please register your interest by return email.
If there is sufficient interest, we hope to launch regular classes in Canberra and Sydney in the near future.
The SAAC New Restaurant- Dober Tek

Check out our variety of menus by clicking the button below.
There has never been a better time to visit the club.
- Dedicated children’s menu
- Kids under 12 eat free on Saturdays
- Delicious Sunday specials
- Available on Uber Eats
- Friendly atmosphere and great company
Bring the family, invite your friends, and enjoy everything our club has to offer.
Don’t Miss a Club Update!
If you’d like to receive detailed updates from the Club straight to your inbox, simply email admin@slovenianclubcanberra.org.au. Stay informed and connected with the Slovenian Australian Association Canberra.
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 Radio

Glas Avstralskih slovencev Sydney v živo vsako soboto na 89.3 FM. Če želite poslati posebno sporočilo družinskemu članu ali prijatelju, ali poslušati svojo najljubšo pesem v naslednji oddaji, nam pišite pošto na naslov – vosaradio@outlook.com ali nas pokličite na telefonsko številko na 0400 533 009 najkasneje do 17. ure vsak torek.
Voice of Slovenian Australians Sydney is live every Saturday on 89.3 FM. 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.
Follow us on Facebook for community news!
Email: vosaradio@outlook.com
Phone: 0400 533 009
Seeking more information on SLOVENIA or our Community?
Click the below links for the latest news and updates from Slovenia!
Vsakdanjik – Institute of Slovenian Ethnology
Radio Program – Slovenian’s Around the World
Click the below links for Slovenian professional organisations in Australia!
Slovenian Australian Chamber of Commerce
Slovenian Australian Academic Association
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