VOSA brings it all together—stay informed, engaged, and connected.
Fun Fact: Slovenia has a baby dragon that can live for decades
The olm (človeška ribica), a pale, cave-dwelling amphibian, lives in the underground waters of Slovenia’s Karst region. It can survive for extraordinarily long periods, is adapted to life in darkness and can go years without food. Its unusual appearance has inspired legends about baby dragons.
Photo: I Feel Slovenia
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?
A third-generation Australian Slovenian will join us to provide an update on her sporting achievements since we last spoke. Plus, we will hear from our Slovenian Franciscan priest in Australia, as we prepare for the observances of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day. As usual we will feature your special messages, story, word and song of the week.
On this day in Slovenian History- 30th October
On 30 October 1862, Anton Funtek was born in Ljubljana. A Slovenian poet, playwright, teacher, editor and translator, Funtek dedicated much of his life to literature and education, helping bring some of the world’s best-known literary works to Slovenian readers in their own language.
Among his most significant translations were William Shakespeare’s King Lear, published in Slovenian in 1904, and the first part of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe’s Faust, published in 1908.
His work helped broaden access to international literature and theatre, while demonstrating the expressive possibilities of the Slovenian language.
Funtek’s contribution extended beyond translation. Between 1891 and 1894, he served as editor of Ljubljanski zvon, one of the important literary journals in Slovenian cultural life. Through his editorial work, original writing and translations, he participated in a period when Slovenian literature and language were continuing to develop their place in public and cultural life.
Alongside his literary career, Funtek worked as a teacher for many years. Education remained an important part of his professional life, reflecting his commitment to both learning and the written word.
The Latest: Key Features and Community Updates
- Sporting Pride: Archer Races to State Championship Success!
- Language Corner: Learn the Language and Discover the Culture
- Researching Slovenian Genealogy- Session with Silvia
- Applications Open for the ASEF “ Visit Slovenia 2027” Scholarship Program
- Reminder- Blessing of Znamenje, Sunday November 1
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
Sporting Pride : Archer Races to State Championship Success!
Archer had an incredible school holiday break, competing in the 2026 Queensland State BMX Racing Championships and delivering an outstanding performance! Performing brilliantly, Archer powered his way to an impressive 2nd place finish in Queensland for 10-year-old boys! This is a fantastic achievement and a huge improvement on last year’s result, where he finished 3rd (3Q).
Archer’s hard work and determination have paid off, earning him a well-deserved 2Q plate for the next year! He can be incredibly proud of how far he has come and the progress he has made throughout the season. As the BMX season begins to wind down for the year, Archer has plenty to celebrate and even more to look forward to.
With this fantastic result under his belt, he is already excited about what 2027 will bring!
Language Corner : Learn the Language and Discover the Culture
Two free online resources to strengthen your Slovenian and reconnect with the country, its people, food and traditions.
This week, we explore two online resources that can help you take the next step: Slovenim, a mostly free language-learning platform, and Feel Sloveni@, a podcast that invites you to discover the people, places and cultural treasures of Slovenia.
Slovenim: Build Your Slovenian, One Lesson at a Time
Slovenim offers a practical way to develop your language skills, with a structured online course covering beginner to intermediate levels.
The platform is mostly FREE and includes 80 lessons, audio recordings, grammar explanations, quizzes and flashcards. Its activities help learners develop vocabulary, understand sentence structures and practise the language in manageable steps.
Whether you want to introduce yourself, speak more confidently with relatives or prepare for your next visit to Slovenia, you can work through the lessons at a pace that suits you.
Why give it a try?
- Free access to the main language-learning resources.
- Audio recordings to help you hear Slovenian pronunciation.
- Quizzes and flashcards to reinforce new vocabulary.
- Lessons for learners progressing from beginner to intermediate level.
Tip: Set aside 10–15 minutes a day to learn five new Slovenian words. Practise saying them aloud and try using them in a conversation with a family member or friend.
Feel Sloveni@: Discover Slovenia Through Stories, Food and Culture
What makes Slovenia special? From traditional dishes and regional customs to remarkable landscapes, creative people and centuries-old traditions, there is always something new to discover.
The Feel Sloveni@ podcast, produced by the Slovenian Tourist Board, takes listeners on a journey through Slovenia’s culture, cuisine, natural beauty and way of life.
Make listening a learning experience: Choose a Feel Sloveni@ episode about Slovenian food, culture or traditions. As you listen, think about what is familiar to you and what you would like to discover further. Pick one interesting story to share with your family, learn a few Slovenian words related to the topic, and try using them in conversation. You might even discover a tradition, recipe or place that inspires you to ask your parents or grandparents about their own memories of Slovenia!
Have you discovered a useful Slovenian learning website, podcast, book or activity? We would love to hear from you! Share your recommendations and learning experiences via vosa.sloveniancommunitynotices.nsw@outlook.com ,so we can continue building a collection of resources for Slovenian Australians of all ages.
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.
If you wish to attend, please email me the following information:
- First name, surname, email address, and mobile phone number.
- It would help me target particular areas if you would include the villages/towns you are interested in and the parishes they are in (if you know them).
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.
Silvia Zele
silvia.zele@biseri.eu
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 one-year scholarship program includes a 10-week research or professional placement at renowned Slovenian universities, research institutions, and innovative companies. Under the guidance of experienced mentors, participants engage in research projects and professional work, acquiring new knowledge and practical experience.
The program is not limited to professional development alone. It also offers young people the chance to learn about the Slovenian language, culture, and traditions, explore their roots, and connect with peers and professionals from both Slovenia and the rest of the world.
Who is the program for?
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.
Reminder- Blessing of Znamenje, Sunday November 1
This Sunday November 1, at 10am the traditional All Souls Day mass at the Rookwood Mausoleum will continue this year. Mass will be celebrated by Provincial Father Stephen Bliss OFM. Following mass, we will move to Slovenian Lawn 2 for the blessing of the lawn and the Znamenje, the unveiling of the memorial stone honouring the priests and nuns who served our Slovenian community in NSW.
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
Halloween – Saturday 31st October
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 1st of November is the 31st Sunday of the year. Holy Mass will take place in the Mausoleum Rookwood Cemetery at 10.00 am. Mass will be celebrated by Provincial Father Stephen Bliss OFM who will also perform one blessing for the Slovenian Lawn 2 and unveiling of the Znamenje .
Please note that there will be no blessing of Slovenian Lawn 1 this Sunday. However, Father Simon Peter will bless Slovenian Lawn 1 on Monday, 23 November, at 10:00 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 next 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.
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.
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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Melbourne Cup Luncheon- November 3rd
Get ready to dress up, enjoy a delicious buffet lunch and soak up the excitement of The Melbourne Cup – the race that stops the nation!
SAAC invites you to join us for a wonderful afternoon of racing, great food, friendship and a little Melbourne Cup glamour.
What’s happening on the day?
- Doors open at 12:00 pm
- Delicious buffet lunch served at 1:00 pm
- The Melbourne Cup race live on the big screen
- Sweeps with prizes — no TAB and no ATM on site
- A prize for the best-dressed race-day outfit
- A complimentary glass of bubbles or orange juice on arrival
Tickets: $45 per person
RSVP and prepayment are essential by Tuesday 27 October 2026.
To secure your place, please pay by bank transfer using the details below.
Bank transfer details
- Account Name: Slovenian Australian Association of Canberra Incorporated
- Bank: NAB
- BSB: 082-926
- Account Number: 515056492
- Reference: Your Name
Please ensure your name is included in the payment reference so we can identify your booking.
For enquiries or to confirm your attendance, contact the club on 02 6282 1083.
Gather your friends, plan your race-day outfit and join us for a fantastic Melbourne Cup celebration with our wonderful community!
We look forward to seeing you there.
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.
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