About Us
Australian Slovenian Association Geelong
The first Slovenians arrived in Geelong pre 1950. The Association was established in November 1955 with events held in rented halls, this was the beginning of the social and cultural pursuits of the small and dynamic Slovenian Community.
Social gatherings and singing together were and are still a favourite pastime. It is purported that the first Slovenian Choir in Australia commenced here in Geelong.
In 1975 a club hall was built with much volunteer labour on land purchased in Lovely Banks, at what is now 100 Asher Road. This was expanded in 1984, and now includes 6 undercover bocce lanes, a gallery room, an archive room, a billiards room, and the main hall with bar and commercial kitchen.
The amenities are used for regular lunches and functions which include;
– Dances
– Intra and inter club sport competitions
– Exhibitions of cultural hand work
– Performances by visiting musical artists and drama groups -both from Melbourne and Slovenia
Sunday lunches are held on the second Sunday of each month. Bookings are essential therefore please phone by the Thursday prior to reserve your seat on 5276 1244. We serve soup for entrée, a generous main and often have sweets available for purchase afterwards. Drinks are at bar prices.
Slovene language classes are held at the club every second Sunday during school terms. These lessons are open to anyone to attend. Current students are mainly second and third generation of Slovenian origin, encouraging to keep the language alive with the regular lessons.
Our bigger events each year are the celebration of Slovenian Independence Day on the 25th of June, and our Boxing Day Dance on 26th December. Both events are well patronised and are enjoyed by all. The Association is involved in the Pako Festa parade each year, and has been since the inception of the festival. It is a great chance to dress in our cultural attire and dance to our polka music!
We welcome everyone to our Association and continue to celebrate our culture and history together!
