The Australian Slovenian Review Spring 1996 Inside this issue... The Adelaide Festival Slovenian Olympic Results Volume 3 Issue 4 Slovenia Wins Gold! Logarska Dota History Part 12 Ignacij Hladnik Choir byTania Smrdel Those of you who, like myself, were glued to the television watching the opening Ceremony of the 26th Olympiad in Atlanta, saw all the Olympic athletes parade around the stadium, including the Slovenians. Even though right at that moment, I was proud to be a Slovenian, another moment which took me by total surprise, made me more prouder than ever before. This moment was also more powerful than any recognition Slovenia has had so far since becoming independent. In front of 15000 athletes and a world audience of about 3.5 billion, 98 year old Slovenian Leon Stukelj; a legend in the sporting world, who with an unrepeatable elegance and such ease, stepped onto the stage. The world had an instant admiration and respect for the oldest living Olympic athlete and his country; Slovenia. It is occasions like this, that make us, the younger generation, proud to call ourselves Slovenian, Leon Stukelj is the most renowned athlete in Slovenia and the oldest living master of athletics in the world. He competed in three summer Olympic games: 1924, 1928 and 1936 At the eighth Olympic games in Paris, 26 year old Stukelj won two gold medals in gymnastics; one on the parallel bars, and the other for the group perfonnance. Four years later in Amsterdam, Leon won a gold medal oil the rings, and two bronze medals for the parallel bars and the group perfonnance. As a 37 year old gymnast, his third and final appearance was at the eleventh games in Berlin where he won a silver medal on the rings. Therefore, he is the bearer of six Olympic medals: tliree gold, one silver and two bronze. Leon Sukelj is now almost 100 years old. He lives and still practices law in Martbor, even though lie was bom in the Dolenjska region. He is also healthy and still very fit. Everyday he walks for two hours, can still do a handstand, read, write and amazingly watch television without the need for glasses. Before his departure to Atlanta, the global television society in the apartment of the oldest Olympian, Leon Stukelj, in Maribor were beside themselves. The groups "British Entertainment Network" and "The Sporting Channel" from Los Angeles, as told by the director Brahka Krsul - she was bora in Maribor - were there taping a one hour life story of the Slovenian sportsman; the bearer of six Olympic medals. In the film, there will mostly be a talk on the life and sporting career of Leon, as well as a presentation of the Slovenian cities Novo Mesto, Ljubljana and Maribor. The networks will also film some parts of the documentary in Atlanta and the Los Angeles Stadium. Leon Stukelj , along with his official companion Tomaz Zajc, left for Atkinta on the 16tli July as a guest of the International Olympic Committee. Before his departure. Stukelj said: "It gives me pleasure to meet with the athletes, for I see in sport, what young people see: joy, satisfaction, friendship and health". All Slovenians are proud of Leon Stukelj, no matter where they live, We will personally meet with the Slovenian Olympian at the next Olympic games which will be held in Sydney. •> Il « s. nii'tf! Kditorial/Writing Irene Stariha Dorothy Kobal Robert Pecovnik Mia Lukezic SonsKobal Henry Stan ha Tania Smrdel Ciril Kosorok IE (EcfitoriaC it Marketing / Public Relations Robert Suber Jude Bavcar-Skubh Mark Stariha Jenny Slanha-Bleesing Vanessa Fabjancic r . 1,1 l^i?-*^'! ''fHlli^;^ ^ P' Production Ciril Kosorok Henry Stariha JohnKobal Editorial Consultants Olga lah Soma Kolar Administration Renala Susanj Sylvia Kuznik '.Ilie Australian Slovenian Review is a non- profit venture, which nints to publish quarterly. Production and distribution costs are funded by spoasorship and advertising. The ASR is not a platform tor any particular interest group and does not represent any group or organisation within the Slovenian community. - rSwi'li' ïisiï: The ARR team believe that there should beaforum availableto inform and discuss issues that are of interest to first and second generation Australians with a Slovenian heritage. Articles for publications are most welcome. They may be presented hiuid written, typed or preferrahly on a MS-DOS format floppy disk. .Articles can be sent to. ASR, P.O. Box KUtt>6 Kings Langley 2147 or taxed to: (02) 674 4583 lit Sponsorship or advertising enquiries should he directed to: Robert Suber on (02) 829 1303 How are people recovering after the many late nights of the Olympic Games? Wasn't it a most inspiring experience seeing our two home lands (both with such low populations) do so well! We may not have dominated the medal count, but we certainly can be proud of the effort our athletes put into their preparation for these games. I hope you enjoyed our front page article on this very topic. This issue is full of inspiration. Not only do our athletes inspire us, but so do people who achieve success in their chosen field. People such as Tanya Obreza working in the field of Astrology, Adrian Vatovec in music and from a very different era the most beloved France Presem. The more Slovenians I meet, the greater my respect for our background and potential is. To follow in the footsteps of the successful Brisbane Second Generation Reunion and to give our Sydney readers a chance to also meet many interesting Slovenians (and their families and friends) the ASR team are busily organising a HUGE Fun Day. You will be hearing more about our "Sunday Rendezvous" if you are a Sydney or surround reader. If you are not and feeling a little left out, then take up the challenge and organise something in your local community - we would be more than happy to help you get the message to your target group. Speaking of groups of our readers who are outside of the Sydney area, we are often conscious of the fact that much of our content is of interest specifically to those who live close to us. This is not a conspiracy or an effort to dominate the Australian Slovenian Community. We simply live here and know more of what is going on here. We have made some efforts to start up some links with other major Slovenian Communities however these do not seem to have very long lives. We are in dire need of motivated people who are not too strongly affiliated to one section only of their Slovenian community. These people could co-ordinate others to write not only stories about their community but general interest stories as well. This does not need to be done for every issue of ASR (as space is often a problem) but is needed to reflect the interests of all Australian Slovenians. PLEASE GIVE IT SOME THOUGHT.... WE NEED YOU! If you are interested in contributing to the ASR, then please remember that unless you are defaming someone we will publish anything! As the Editor I often get blamed for the opinions expressed in our Review. (This doesn't worry me - in fact I find it rather amusing!) It is important however, to remember that we are a neutral newsprint, and thus are required to give everyone the opportunity to have their say. Interestingly enough the articles we consider controversial usually get no reaction while others that may seem hannless (or even bonng) stir up much emotion. Please write to the Editor if any of our articles cause you to have any reaction - either positive or negative. Remember that this is an option open to you, use it rather than harbouring ill feelings either against the ASR or me personally! (I'm reaily not as opinionated as I sometimes sound -1 like to get reactions!) For a change I actually started with some discussion of the content in this issue, before I began to waffle.....I'm surprised anyone still bothers to read my Editorials! Our next issue should be coming out hot on the heels of this one as part of our Sydney "Sunday Rendezvous". •> Slovenian athletes at Atlanta 1996 Slovenia wins two Cycling Robert Pintaric Silver Olympic medals Archerers Samo Medved at Atlanta Peter Koprivnikar Matev Krumpestar As our front page story showed, the Atlanta Olympic games put Slovenia in the International spotlight Track Alenka Bikar (Running) during the opening ceremony. Leon Stukelj, aged 98, and Britta Bilac (High Jump) the oldest surviving gold medal athlete from Slovenia Field Ksenija Predikaka (Long Jump) entered the arena with other sporting legends such as Brigita Bukovec 100m Hurdles Silver Medal Australia's Dawn Fraser, American Mark Spitz and Gregor Cankar (Long Jump) Romania's Nadia Komenic. Leon Stukelj competed in Miro Kocuvan (Hurdles) the 1912 Olympics as a gymnast and his springy Igor Prime (Hurdles) entrance to the arena brought a roar from the crowd Helena Javornik (Marathon) and prompted the television commentary team to say Jerneja Pere (Running) Leon must have just jumped off from the trampoline. Renata Strasek (Javelin) Slovenia had 33 athletes attend the Atlanta games. Canoeing Andraž Vehovar Silver Medal They competed in track and field, cycling, archery, Jernej Abramic K I Slalom sailing , canoeing, coxless 4, double skull and Fedja Marusic Team Event swimming events. Gregor Terdic (CI Slalom) Simon Hočevar (CI Slalom) Winning the Silver medal, Brigita Bukovec set a new Slovenian national record in the 100m hurdles of Coxless 4 Iztok Cop 12.59 seconds. Shooting Rajmond Debevec In the canoeing event, Andraz Vehovar, Jemej Abramic and Fedja Murusic won a silver medal in the Sailing Alenka and Janja Orel (470 Women) K1 slalom team event. Tomaz Copi (470 Men) Mitja Margon (470 Men) The archery team of Samo Medved, Peter Koprivnikar Vesna Dekleva and Matev Krumpestar set a new Slovenian record of 249 points, gained 5th place overall but lost to South Korea in the quarter finals. Double Skull Tul,Spik Swimming Peter Mankoc (Freestyle) All in all a good result for Slovenia. With the help of Igor Majcen (Freestyle) the Slovenian Ministry of Sports Slovenia can only Alenka Kejzar (Butterfly/Breaststroke) improve on this result for the Sydney 2000 games. ❖ Jure Bucar (Freestyle) Metka Sparavec (Freestyle) Slovenia, Austria and Italy propose a Joint Bid for the Winter 2006 Olympic Games On 12 February 1996, Italy, Austria and Slovenia announced a joint bid for the 2006 Winter Olympic games. With the support of all three national governments, and a local government initiative, the bordering towns of Arnoldstein - Austria, Travisio - Italy and Kranjska Gora - Slovenia have begun to vie the International Olympic Committee for the right to stage these games. Cristiano Degano, the spokesperson for the Travision 2006 group, said that apart from the three sites being within kilometres of each other, it is a historical first for a three-country bid. The infrastructure is already in place "Thus, environmental impact will be minimar and "For us, it would be a great opportunity to promote the many and diverse traditions of all three regions." The Olympic Committee of Slovenia Some four months after Slovenia's Independence, the Olympic Committee of Slovenia (OCS) was formed in Ljubljana on October 19, 1991. The OCS was formed by leading Slovenian sportspeople and representatives from 34 Slovenian national sporting associations of Olympic sports. The following year, with the help of the International Ski Federation, the Slovenian Olympic Committee was granted recognition and entry to the International Olympic Community. President of the International Olympic Committee, Mr Samaranch welcomed Slovenia's entry to the Olympic family by saying "You are a small nation, but you are big in sports." Slovenia's participation in the modern Olympic games was well covered in the Winter 1996 edition of the ASR. Since 1912, Slovenian contestants at Olympic events have represented other countries or the former Yugoslav republic but never in their own right beneath the Slovenian flag! The joint 2006 bid is a positive step for the Olympic movement in Slovenia which will not only improve Slovenia's international identity but also a welcome economic boost. ❖ CD ROM - 'Slovenia 96' 'Slovenia 96' CD Rom is expected to be released by late August by Vitrum Publishing. Basically it divided into four main areas: General information, Macroeconomic overview, Doing business, and Useful Phonebook. The contributors include the Institute for Macroeconomic Analysis and Development, and the Ministries for Foreign Affairs. Defence, Science & Technology, Education and Finance. Bilateral trade exchange growth The head of the Slovenian Economic Committee met with the US ambassador to Slovenia to discuss economic cooperation between the two countries. Bilateral trade was continuing to grow reaching US$551 million last year. The United States is Slovenia's sixth largest economic partner, but the volume of trade has not reached its potential. Also unsatisfactory is the volume of US investment in Slovenia. It was agreed that that bilateral economic co-operation needs to be strengthened both at government level and in business organisations such as chamber of commerce. It was also agreed that investment protection and double taxation agreements should be signed as soon as possible. 35 Kilos of Military Explosive seized The north-eastern Slovenian town of Ormo witnessed the result of a successful investigation in June when special units of the Ministry of the Interior (MNZ) in co-operation with the Defence Intelligence Service and the Croatian Ministry of the Interior seized 35 kilos of military explosives, which were to be sold in the west. Information became known in spring that a large shipment of explosives were to be brought into Slovenia from Croatia, and the police from Ljubljana and Maribor and the special units of the Slovenian MNZ set a police ambush at the OMV petrol station. Seven suspects were arrested. House searches were made of a further four Slovenians, but no new evidence was found. House Searches were also made in Croatia. There they found another 12 kilos of military explosives, 5 hand grenades, a Kalashnikov machine gun, an M-48 rifle and a stolen Mercedes. According to the head of organised crime unit at the MNZ, Drago Kos, there will be an increase of this sort of illicit trade due to the end of the war in the Balkans. Whilst Slovenia is only a transit stop, Slovenia must be seen to be doing all it can to irradiate the illegal arms trade on its soil. Australian MP Visits Slovenia Peter Neil Shipper, Chairman of the Australian federal parliament's Group of Friendship with Slovenia, visited Slovenia on July 11, and was greeted by Mihaela Logar, the head of the parliamentary Committee on International Relations. Logar commented that Slovenia and Australia should take steps to abolish double taxation and sign and agreement on social security payments as soon as possible. Australia's help was also sought on Slovenia attaining OECD membership. Slovenian break through in eye surgery Dr Vladimir Pfeifer of the Ljubljana Eye Clinic has developed a new and unique method of "pharo cracking" used for removing cataracts. The new technique allows for faster removal of the eye core and shortens the time for surgery from 30 to 10 minutes, thus reducing the danger for infections and other complications. It also radically shortens the post-surgery treatment. In the past patients were confined to bed for 14 days, while today, a patient is able to play a tennis match within hours of surgery. The clinic shortly plans to start training foreign doctors in the procedure. This is the second significant achievement of Slovenian doctors this year. In March, a group of surgeons headed by Dr Miha Zargi conducted surgery involving a cohlear implant, which transforms mechanical to electrical stimuli, improving the hearing nerve, allowing the deaf to hear again. Australian Slovenian in World Bocce Championship Robert Mikuletic, who was interviewed in an earlier issue of ASR, represented Australia at the world junior bocce championships in France in July. Bocce competitors from 18 countries competed in the competition. Linda B ji g Arnadottir created a gown made from a Cool Couture Slovenia certainly made visual impact at the Smirnoff International Fashion Awards late last year in Cape Town, South Africa. A field of 34 budding fashion designers assembled to compete for prize money (US SI0,000) and the honour of winning. The competition was intended to allow a final flight of imagination before the fashion design students got .jobs in the industry and were forced to be rather more "conservative" in their design. The Slovenian entrant Uros Belantic created a crinoline dress of tea bags, but the winning design was even more bizarre: Iceland's nimal stomachs. But they were not alone in the use of "creative" materials: the Australian entrant's garment featured eggshells, Taiwan used pipecleaners while Poland presented three garments which largely relied on perspex and not much else. ❖ AUSTRALIAN SLOVENIAN COMPOSES SONG FOR THE LARGEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT IN THE WORLD by Irene Stariha One of our regular Adelaide readers has been acknowledged for his musical talents, by having his song chosen to be played as the opening piece for the Adelaide Christmas Pageant. Adrian Vatovec composed the song and his colleague Ben Juanta sang the male lead for the 1995 Pageant parade and the organisers plan to use this song for many more pageants. The pageant has been an Adelaide tradition for many years. From simple beginnings in 1933 with eight horse-drawn floats it has become the largest performance of its kind in the world. Today the pageant has over 1,300 participants. 14 bands, 55 floats and spans 3,250 metres. The song has been recorded and the CD has been accepted by the National Film and Sound Archive in Canberra. The charter of the National Film and Sound Archive is to preserve a selection of contemporary and historical works. Both Adrian and his friend Ben are employees of Mitsubishi Motors Australia and have had the story of their song and contribution to the Adelaide Pageant covered by two Mitsubishi publications (printed in Japan) which were distributed world-wide to subsidiary and affiliated companies. As a little plug for the organisation that supported Adrian, you may be interested to know that the Mitsubishi group of companies' total revenue equates to the size of the Australian economy which makes it one of the largest in the world. The CD at present is available only in Adelaide but it is certainly worth seeking out. Congratulations Adrian!! And good luck with any future endeavours you embark oil.*'* Pictures supplied by Adrian from Mitsubishi Motors Information Magazine for Distributors and Dealer 1996 VOL. 1 NO. 61 Crossword Answers Across: 4 Bovec 5 Stiskati 6 Tomaj 7 Shoot 10 Scotland 11 Station 12 Vintgar 13 Triglav 18 Jewish 15 Roaldamundsen 19 Spain 21 Pig 22 Celje 23 Sto 24 Misery 27 Fete 28 Kranj 30 Ljubek 31 Expense Down: 1 Metla 2 Hire 3 Fall 4 Bistra 5 Stol 7 Spa 8 Trnovo 9 Mohicans 13 Trenta 14 Greece 15 Rowing 16 Minotaur 17 Nomads 20 Peruse 22 Chicken 25 Ego 26 Beau 29 Type ❖ ■II i .1É i§É 1 * * * l t T* • ' » * ^ * * * * 4 * * * * ' ; Attsit-jiJùm Youth Çfton lieu jmutii 1 * * * * I * * * - ; 1 ft- ¿Jii ¡T ■ mtxtmrngmsmg I;.,,. "QtuistmsEPagesm" 1 pMo left: Adrian Vstovec Ijjpp-/'.;; Slovenian language, literature and culture at Macquarie University You can study Slovenian fillhtime, part-time or take single units. SLN102- Introduction to Slovenian Language (for beginners) SLN 110 - Slovenian Reading Unit (for beginners) SLN 121 - Slovenian Language I (for. advanced students with HSC in Slovenian) SLNI06 - Slovenian Literature (in English) SLNI07 - Slovenian Culture (in English) SLN204 - Slovenian Language II (for advanced students who have completed SLN 121) SLN300 - Slovenian Language III (for advanced students who have completed SLN204) SLN 206 -Slovenian Literature II and SLN301 - Slovenian Literature III are not offered in 1997. For more information you can contact: - Centre for Open Education, (02) 9850 7470; - Department of Slavonic Studies, (02) 9850 7015; - Slovenian Section, Metka Cuk, (02) 9850 7032, e-mail mcuk(alluitreLocs.mq.edu.au \lovenian In dep en den ce Five Year Anniversary This is the text of a Speech delivered by the Honarary Slovenian Consulate of Australia, Mr Alfred Breznik, to a diplomatic reception on the occasion of the 5th Anniversary of the Independence of Slovenia On June 25, 1991, exactly five years ago today, the Republic of Slovenia was born. So, it's Slovenia's birthday today. Five years old. Five years since that important historical event, the declaration of a sovereign, independent and democratic new state in Europe - the Republic of Slovenia. It has been said that the Slovenitin people waited for this occasion for almost one thousand years. How many generations had come and gone? How many unfulfilled aspirations and dreams? For myself, I am proud not only to have lived through this experience, but to have actually witnessed five years ago, as a guest of the Slovenian Parliament in Ljubljana, the birth of our nation. Slovenia, as it is today, covers about a third of the original land inhabited by the Slovenian people in the 6th and 7th Centuries. Our destiny was no -different to that of The Slovenian Assembly's declaration on 25 June 1991 was really only a rubber stamp to the plebiscite. The Yugoslav peoples army or rather their generals did not agree with the peoples decision and reacted with force. other central European people. In the tide of history, some nations grew bigger and stronger, others _vanished. But Slovenians have survived as a homogeneous people of 2 million, on the most beautiful 20,000 km2 parcel of land in Europe. For centuries we shared our destiny with the other peoples in the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The Slovenian people contributed much to the empire in all fields of endeavour, whether in culture, commerce or the military. World War 1 brought further changes to Europe and the world. Slovenians saw an opportunity to achieve a greater autonomy or even self rule in the new Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenians, later known as Yugoslavia. Their expectations were never realised and the unhappy union was terminated, after 22 years with the beginning of World War II. The second World War also did not spare the Slovenians. The nation was split geographically as well as ideologically. People suffered, fought and died for their country. Alter five years of war, liberation came to Europe. While this meant freedom and democracy for the nations of western Europe, it was not the case for those of Central and Eastern Europe - Slovenia among them. For many, another 46 years of suffering followed. Many perished in the struggle. The 1980*s triggered a new Slovenian political and national consciousness. Signs of similar unrest were also noticed in the other countries of central and eastern Europe. The fall of the Berlin wall will be remembered as a milestone. The Slovenian Government realised that free elections, political pluralism and democracy were the only way to satisfy the peoples expectations. Thus, democratic elections in April 1990, followed by a plebiscite in December, of the same year, resulted in 88% approval for a tree, independent and democratic Slovenia. The Slovenian Assembly's declaration on 25 June 1991 was really only a rubber stamp to the plebiscite. The Yugoslav peoples army or rather their generals did not agree with the peoples decision and reacted with force. The militarv aggression did not scare our people and they defended their country courageously. Alter 10 days of war, 64 people were killed, and the "liberators" left the country, for good. Fortunately, Slovenia did not get involved in the wars that racked Croatia and Bosnia. But it did accept some 100,000 refugees from former Yugoslavia at a cost of $80 million. Some 17,000 are still sheltering in our country. Five years old today, Slovenia can Jook back with some pride on her achievements. Slovenia is a member of most international governmental organisations and sees her integration into the economic and political structures of Europe as the liighest priority, particularly with EU and NATO. The recent signing of the Association membership agreement with EU on 10 June is a major breakthrough and the first step to full integration. Wasting no time, on the same day as signing the Association Membership Agreement, Slovenia applied for full membership. Slovenia is a member of the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), the Council of Europe, the NATO Co-operation Council and North Atlantic Assembly. An early NATO membership is also high on the agenda. Economically, according to international studies, Slovenia is the wealthiest among Europe's former Communist Countries, with a GDP of USS9,4000 per capita in 1995. GDP growth which in 1994 peaked at 5.5% had moderated in 1995 to 4%. Annual inflation at 8.6% in 1995, is projected at 6% for 1996. Slovenian foreign trade relies as much as 75% on the European partners with which trade agreements have been concluded (EU, EFTA & CEFTA). Slovenia is the only economy in transition in central and eastern Europe ;to have been assigned an "A" rating by all three leading international credit rating agencies: iBCA, Moody's and Standard and Poor's. Since early (his year the Slovenian currency lias been internationally convertible. Australian-Slovenian bilateral relations are cordial. Since 11 April 1995, Australia has had a Consulate in Ljubljana, which will help further develop bilateral relations. Trade with Australia is modest but growing and reached about S50 million in 1995. Companies, such as Email, Coca-Cola Amatil, Impact International and Queensland Sugar Corporation are doing business with Slovenian partners. Many Slovenian products are found in Australia, ranging from white goods and furniture, through to pharmaceuticals, electrical goods, skis and foodstuffs. In April of this year an Australian joint Government business trade delegation visited Slovenia and in early May of this year a Slovenian parliamentary delegation visited Australia. Discussions were held with Federal Government representatives and other Governmental bodies in Canberra. The delegation also visited New South Wales and at the invitation of the Hon Bryan Vaughan visited State Parliament and had a most enjoyable lunch there. Thank you once again Mr Vaughn, we enjoyed the fine food and particularly the good company. This type of visit undoubtedly helps in developing greater understanding and furthering our relationship. In conclusion I would like to thank you all for attending this celebration and join me in wishing Slovenia a happy 5th birthday, Thank you.<* What they said......... "Tonight is a time of remembering, a time when we may remember together that evening 5 years ago;.... Everything has its time, and every task has its hour under the heavens, and so we did. We had a clear, common goal. We had the will and courage to reach out. Differences, personal gain and the past were all put to one side. We made clear choices. We desired a peaceful solution, in order to avoid and war. And we sought and found friends in the world." President of Slovenia - Mr. Milan Kucan. "Through decisive resistance and active diplomacy we achieved de facto sovereignty Slovenia managed to avoid a horrible crisis which over the past years greatly troubled not just our immediate neighbours, but the entire international community. The achievement of independence and the subsequent five momentous years have been an invaluable experience, a course for self-esteem and great hope for the future" Prime Minister of Slovenia - Mr. Janez Drnovsek "Warm greetings to everyone celebrating Slovenia's independence day. I share the pride .. commemorating the freedom and success of Slovene's new country, so rich in culture and tradition and so filled with the hope of the future. Slovenia is a model for the newly free nations of the world." US President Bill Clinton. KOBAL & ASSOCIATES SOLICITORS & ATTORNEYS Dorothy Kobal B.Com L..LB. 81 SporingAve, (P.O. Box KL 806) Kings Langley 2147 (Tel) (02) 9838 0334 (Fax) (02) 9674 4583 Conveyancing,Wills & Probate, Small Business, Litigation and General Advice. Tanya Obreza may be a name that some of you are familiar with. If you have an interest in Astrology you will have seen her on Channel 10'$ "Monday to Friday" program and read her predictions in magazines such as Marie Claire and other notable newspapers and magazines in Australia, Britain, South Africa and New Zealand, Tanya was born in Slovenia in 1957 and at the age of 18 months her parents emigrated to Australia. After college, Tanya visited her birthplace and also toured Europe. It was during her first visit to England that she was introduced to astrology, and Tanya has now been a practicing astrologer for 20 years. In J 980 she gained her London Faculty of Astrological Studies qualifications and in J 988 summoned the courage to leave her career as a Production Manager in the film and television industry to pursue what had become her main interest - the study and research of astrology. Over the years, Tanya has established an extensive and wide-ranging international following....mostly due to her reassuring, down to earth presence. Tanya aims to break down the mystique surrounding astrology and other esoteric subjects. To enable us to obtain an insight into her work, Tanya answers some questions for us that she is most commonly asked. By Irene Stariha Tanya, why do you believe in astrology? 1 don't "believe" in astrology - it is not a religion, or system of faith. But I have both studied, and practiced the subject for over 20 years and have continued to find astrology to be useful, rewarding and a valuable tool for self-awareness and understanding. The accuracy of ray work is not confirmed by my self.....but from feedback from my clients. Have you ever had doubts in it? I don't believe (hat anything in life should be accepted on faith alone. Therefore the best way to deal with any "doubts" that arise is to test theories, research, ask questions....and then take the necessary amount of time required to find comprehensive answers to these questions. Kahlil Gibran said, "He who does not seek advice is a fool. His folly blinds him to the Truth and makes him evil, stubborn, and a danger to his fellow What kinds of people come to you for consultations? People from all walks of life and social strata. One Is there any physical reason why we should expect astrology to work? (Astronomers would argue that there is no physical reason, ie. it can't be attributed to gravity, light, electromagnetic radiation or electrostatic forces). There's always a tendency to dismiss what hasn't yet been detected. You can't tell me that we can wander through the varying fields of attraction between the Sun and it's circling planets and be totally impervious to the energy forces. Even the Earth itself changes shape according to the position of the Moon - not to mention the influence the Moon exerts on ¡lie tide, seasons, plant growth, etc. How can we remain immune? It may be argued astrology is unethical because it dispels us of the responsibility we feel to our own behaviour. No one should be allowed diminished responsibilities of their own decisions. Life is a learning experience and despite our "given lot" it's up to each of us to operate in as much of a spiritually informed manner as we can. Despite some grey areas, there is a generally accepted demarcation line between right and wrong, which we alone choose to knowingly cross. Astrology does not hold your fate in its hands - it's meant to be used as a "guide" or "map" to help increase self-awareness along your individual path in life. Should we respect astrology as a scicnce, religion or as an ancient and harmless superstition ? An applied study. "Applied" in its dependence on astronomical intermission, and "study" in that certain behaviour traits have been linked to the various signs, etc through observation over thousands of years. Like any other study, there are always fresh schools of thought that promote debate and better understanding of the relationships between ourselves and the planets. Tanya, being a Sun Sign columnist do you believe it's accurate to place so much emphasis on the Sun Sign (as virtually even paper and magazine does so) which ignores the multitude of other influences within the horoscope? It's true that there is much more in a personal chart than just the Sun Sign, but when writing for magazines and papers you have to write within workable parameters. For a start, you're writing for the general reader, so you have to go on the broad categories that the Sun Signs cover. Beyond that you would have to have each individual's time, date and place of birth -which would make the whole operation of a column impossible. The point, though, is that there is enough interest to warrant Astrology columns. The information given in these columns is astrology on an introductory level, pitched at the casual lay reader who may want to investigate further with a personal birthchart. Where possible, I offer the option of this more in-depth service through an accompanying advertisement. It's then up to the reader if they want to know more. Overall, what do you see as the main misconceptions about Astrology? That it's linked to the "supernatural"...or that it's a religion or faith. I'm not a psychic, nor am I a fortune teller...nor do I "worship" astrology. I simply use it. No "gift" is required to become an astrologer - only years of study, training and practice. (An interest in others helps!) In the case of planetary transits and progressions - rather than "predict", I prefer to present the client with a set of possibilities (more to do with how they're likely to be "feeling" rather than specific events): and when analysing a chart specifically for character analysis, I aim to highlight the client's strengths and weaknesses... and if possible show how those strengths can be developed. But I also know where my boundaries lay - if I recognise that a client needs more specialist help - then I suggest they consult the appropriate medical authorities. Tanya, w hat of your Slovenian background? People have olten asked me who are my "heroes" in life - the answer is simple. My parents. I'm so proud of them. Why? Well... unless you've actually experienced the upheaval of leaving your fnends, family and loved ones - moving 13,000 miles to a new country, with no money, no job, no knowledge of what awaits you, no family to greet you, not being able to speak the new language... with two babies under the age of three - who can possibly understand the hardships our parents endured? My parents, Ivan (from Cerknica) and Rosa (from Koper) Miklavcic, experienced all of this - and more...as did virtually every emigrant (AKA refugee) family in the 50's and 60's. Of course, as the children of emigrants, we all have our own memories and The Stars personal crosses to bear, Most of us who grew up here in Australia in the 60's certainly know what discrimination is all about - "wog" being a favourite word of the day. More than one of my friends changed their Slovenian names to "Aussie" names. But, of course, the end result of a generation's integration is "multi-culturalism" - and a delightfully cosmopolitan Australia. Obviously, too, my parents' brave decision to come to Australia has enabled me to do so much with my life - and opened up opportunities for me that may not have been available in Slovenia during the 6Q's, 70's and SO's. If asked where I come from - Slovenia, Australia or England (I did spend 18 years of my life in London. I initially went in 1976 for "a six month holiday" and loved it so much - that I stayed 18 years. But I finally returned in ¡994.) Well...I suppose the short answer is that I'm Slovenian bom and extremely proud of my heritage (I still speak the language...albeit falteringly!).. .I grew up in Australia and lost my heart to England. But over the years, I've spent much time in all three countries and love them all equally. ❖ Tanya Obreza offers Personal Character Profiles (15 pages - S30.00) and Yearly Forecasts (75pages -$55.00). To order sendfuU payment to PO Box 46 Katoomba NSW2780, together with your name, date and place of birth. Bankcard, Mastercard or l isa accepted Please provide card number, expiry date and signature. Car Rail; '96 (Organised by Barbara and Danica Petrit, Veronica, Anthony and Olga Lah) What a great day it turned out to be! ! The great weather was kind to us and was matched only by the enthusiasm and determination of the participants. Eleven teams participated in this event and followed the set route to the "secret destination" - The Bicentennial Park at Homebush Bay. Jože and Carmen Lah and Mark Gašperšič were at the venue early and kept the sausage sizzle 'sizzling' until all teams had completed the course. Competition was fierce. Winners: Irene and Mark Stariha (First Prize: $100 David Jones voucher) Runners - up: Jude and Frank Skubla (Second prize: $50 meal voucher donated by the Slovene Association Sydney) Thankyou to all participants and supporters. See you at next years rally! ** Slovenian Junior Athletics Team Pictured below are the cream of Slovenia's junior athletes. They were in Sydney to compete at the 6th World Junior Championships in Athletics held at the Athletics Centre, Homebush Bay (Olympic Park). Some of these athletes will be representing Slovenia at the 2000 Olympics - so watch out for them in four year's time. This picture was taken at the Slovenian Association Sydney on Friday 17 August where the athletes, together with their coaches, were welcomed at a special function hosted by the Slovenian Consulate. It was good to see that many people came to the club that evening to show their support. Frank Loncar and Sylvia Kuznik happily tied the knot on Sunday 25 August. Sylvia is a member of the ASR team and Frank is also well-known to the Slovenian community - working for Weslbus, he has safely driven many of us on several organised bus trips. We wish them lots of love, happiness and good fortune. St Martina Day Wine tasting 8pos Music by Manir.bn November 23 Concert Td be confirmed The S.A.S Tennis courts are open on Saturdays from 2pm & Sunday from 12pm Bring a friend & racket, & enjoy the quality facilities ©ut &C About SHOP 'TIL YOLI DROP Due to numerous enquiries as to the date of the next Shopping Trip, the ASR team has decided to organise another this year. We do hope you will be able to join us for the "Christmas Shopping Trip" scheduled for Saturday, 7 December 1996. Cost is $20 per person (includes bus transport, morning & afternoon teas and a light iunch). Think of the bargain gifts you can buy your family and friends for Christmas - and of course yourself. Watch this space in the next issue for further information or contact Jude Bavcar-Skubla on 9674 7993 for details. rChe Q&öcial Q&cene in Q&pdnep DATE PLACE Saturday, September 14 Triglav Sunday, September 15 Triglav Saturday, September 21 Sunday, September 29 : Si Rafael's Saturday, Octobers Saturday, October 5 Planica Club Springvale, Victoria Sunday, October 13 Triglav Sunday, October 27 EVENT DETAILS Monthly Dinner 30pm Annual General Meeting Dance ClebratiDn of the Feast of St Rafael St Marriage jubilees. October Festival Pofcfr Maehlw ProBMUoe No. 2, Win 2 Ik-tet« ta Slovmia plus 5204MI i pending mmry 22nd Youth Concert Bocce Inlerrlub Competition Mens A Ladies mixed trams Picnic 8-00pm Music by Lipa 9.30am Spm Music by Veseli Gorenjci See ad this page for details Contact club for more details Afternoon Music by Psycho Zydeco A.C.N 000 904 754 2 - 10 Elizabeth Street Wethen» Paik NSW 2164 Annual Youth Concert 5th OctobBr 1996 The 22nd Annual Youth Concert will be hosted by Planica Club Springvale, Victoria on behalf of SS. Cyril and Methodius Slovenian Church Kew. All musicians, dancers and performers are welcome. Please register your act by calling or faxing your details Ph: (03) 9853 8118 Fax: (03) 9853 6176 A bus has been organised from St Rafaels Sydney. To book your seat call Fr. Valerian on 02 9637 TUT Saturday, November 9 : ■:■• v: : V- Tržaški Oktet From Triest Contact club for details Sunday, November 24 Triglav A Sunday Rendezvous ASR Family Day See leaflet for details Saturday, December 7 SDS Miklavževanje Feast of St Nicolas Dance flpm Music by The Masters Saturday, December 7 To be advised Cbristmu Shopping Spree See ad this page Sunday, December 8 St Rafael's .................... ............. - Miklavž Feast of St Nicholas Slomškova Šola performs program after mass in hall Far more details on the events listed above contact the organisers directr- SDS (Slovenian Association Sydney) 2-10 Elizabeth Si Wetherill Park (02)9756165« St RafaeLi Slovenian Catholic Church 313 Merrylands Rd Meny lands (02)9637 7147 Triglav Club Ltd. SO-84 Brisbane Rd SI Johns Park (02) 96101627 Slovene Association Sydney * POKER MACHINES*POOL TABLES*BISTRO * LIBRARY with Slovenian Books Phone: (02) 9756 1658 Fax: (02) 9756 1447 S.A.S. "Supporting the Advancement of Slovenians" Social Club available for Weddings, Parties, Functions & Hall hire SLOVENSKE ZELEZARNE (Slovenian Steel Industry) JESENICE ACRONI The iron industry has art old and well founded tradition in Gorenjska. In the Julian Alps and the Karavanke slopes there are several archaeological findings, testifying that iron was melted in this area as early as in the Iron Age. Ancient melting-houses were founded in the neighbourhood of Ajdovski Castle in Bohinj. The oldest document preserved in The Mining Order of the Ortenburg Counts was written in 1381. The document settled the relationships among miners, melters, blacksmiths, charcoal burners and workers in the Karavanke. A special stimulus to the development of the iron industry was given by the immigrants, and among them, the well-known Buccellini family, in the 16th Century. During this time the ironworks of Plavz, Sava and Javornik were founded. Spread out and hindered by obsolete equipment and technology, these ironworks could not cope with the rapid scientific development during the last Century. Thus, in 1869, the Carniolian Industrial Company was established to set up and organise production concentration at Jesenice. The company, however, soon felt the influence of the general economic crisis. After 1872 the invention of ferromanganese smelting saved the company. The ironworks of followed by improvements in further hot and cold steel treatment. In the hot rolling-mill a Slabbing Four High Rolling-Mil 1 enables the rolling of heavy plates and wide strips. These are then rolled to their final thickness on the Steckel Four High Rolling-Mill. The new steel plant, including modem UHP electric arc furnace (with eccentric bottom tapping), vacuum steel treatment equipment (VOD) and continuous slab casting was commissioned in 1986, The new ladle furnace for liquid steel treatment outside the EAF will be installed this year. The hot-rolled strips are then sent to the cold rolling-mill for further treatment. The cold rolling-mill is equipped with Sendzimir Mills and processing lines for the treatment of stainless steel, dynamo, carbon and other types of steel. Jesenice and Javornik integrated into one unit in 1890. Between 1890 and 1914, in accordance with the newest techniques and the latest metallurgical methods, charcoal blast furnaces were abandoned, and new open hearth furnaces and rolling-mills were The Jesenice Steelworks installed, as well as also has equipment cold processing The most for ^eat treatment equipment. important products (quenching and The period arc silicon Steel, which anneaiing), & ia represents 35% of our sales, ... , after World followed by stainless cutting and War I did not , 7 blanking, contribute much to the production capacity nor to the progress in technology. It was only between 1930 and 1940 that reconstruction of the old equipment began. During this period two new blast furnaces were constructed. Further development was directed into increased production of electric arc furnaces. As a result of this, production in the SiemensMartin furnaces decreased and was finally abandoned, as was the production of pig-iron in the blast furnaces. With the introduction of secondary metallurgy procedures (powder metallurgy, wire feeding, vacuumising and oxygen degassing), a high quality of steel was achieved, comparable to the highest quality steel produced in the world today. Improvements made in steel production were production of cold-rolled sections and doorposts at its disposal, all of which contribute to its varied assortment of products. The annual production is about 200,000 tons of hot-rolled plates and coils, cold-rolled plates, strips and sections. The most important products are silicon steel, which represents 35% of our entire sales, followed by stainless steel with 15%, and the rest is represented by construction and micro-alloyed steel. 40% of all production is sold on the home market and 60% on foreign markets. The most important foreign partner is Italy, but Austria and Germany are close behind. Over 70% of all our exports are sold to these three countries. America is also an important partner, especially in the export of stainless steel. Our entire exports amount to DM120 million. Slovenian ferrous metallurgy has been the subject of a great crisis over the past few years. Increasing market demands, and support from the state, however, has contributed greatly towards ACRONI's current investment into new ladle furnaces and the modernisation of the hot rolling-mill. This will enable ACRONI to fulfil the requirements of modern world markets, ensuring prompt delivery of high quality products. •> Source: The International Review of World Trade 1996 GORENJSKA Location of Zeleiorna Jcsenice — Acrorii, d.o.o. SLOVENIJA Four main reasons are to be given for why the civil war in Slovenia was not as bloody or protracted as the Bosnian conflict The first is the fact that the time for change to democracy was right within Slovenia Secondly, cultural homogeneity (a majority of ethnically identical people) within Slovenia Cultural differences did not create the same ethnic animosity as it did in any of the other states. Added to this Serbian preoccupation with Bosnia-Hersgovina and Croatia meant that the Federal Army had priorities elsewhere. Slovenian tenacity ,and a gift for establishing powerful allies, meant that the takeover of Slovenia became not a viable gain and an unattractive proposition for the Serbian backed, Yugoslav regime. This and subsequent articles will look at these major reasons. To begin we need to examine some of the early events of those ten remarkable days. In the tabloid The Sun Herald, on the twentieth of January 1991 the headline rang Republic defiant*. The story on that day quoted then Slovenian Prime Minister Lojze Peterle, as ignoring an order by the Federal Army for the Slovenians to hand in their weapons or be forcibly disarmed.This was not a buy back scheme, this was a stark revelation that there was trouble ahead. The Prime Minister said;" In Slovenia there is not a single unit that could correspond to the formulations of the Yugoslav Presidency's order to hand in weapons,and therefore, in Slovenia, the return of weapons is not under way." The pressure on the civilian population must have begun mounting at this point as this act of defiance increased the rebellious stature of Slovenia, The people of Slovenia were bracing themselves for a fight,they were to be armed, and they steadied themselves knowing trouble was ahead. The Slovenian forces were estimated by the Sydney Morning Herald to have had 20,000 regular soldiers and 50 to 60,000 reserves. These reserves, the product of compulsory military service in their young adult lives, were pitted&gflinst the overwhelming might of the Yugoslavian Federal Army that numbered 180,000. The military plan code named Rampart 91 came into effect on the 26th of June. The extent of this decision would be felt the following day as an aggressive Federal Army flexed its muscle. The plan as Niko Grafenauer pointed out was "prepared well in advance" and it "set out on a punitive expedition against the Slovenian people and started a ruthless war of destruction." . As the Federal Armies tanks controlled all of the border posts and the Yugoslav jets began pounding the airports of Maribor and Ljubljana ordinary citizens came to the realisation that they were now facing the very real threat of war ,and they would now have to pay a price for their defiant attitude. The Yugoslav army justified Rampart 91 under the pretence that foreign forces had attacked the country and that they must protect the borders .The enemy was very much from within the crumbling Yugoslavia Seven people were killed when jets bombed a convoy of civilian trucks stopped at a roadblock near Trebnje, south of Ljubljana As reported in a previous article Mr Igor Bavcar, the Slovenian Interior Minister, described how there had been attempts to bomb the cars of civilians. "The army has authorisation to fire at will" Œïje toctbtl Wax $art I by Robert Pecovnik he declared in a radio broadcast asking people to restrict their movements to a bare minimum. Austria protested that their air space was violated by the attacks, but this fell upon deaf ears. History has shown that any conflict in this area has a long and ugly past The reticent behaviour of the United Nations, or the cautious and pragmatic nature of any international response to the invasion shows that the worlds military leaders were wary of the powder keg that was Yugoslavia The luxury of hindsight has shown that international recognition of Slovenia's plight was sufficient at the time. The same could not be said for the inept and numerous peace plans devised for the other war torn areas of the former united Slavic states. Five Federal soldiers were killed in a confrontation with Slovenian forces in the village ofTnzin, north of Ljubljana Another Federal trooper was killed in Ormoz near the Hungarian border. Even the residential areas saw two Federal helicopter pilots shot down and killed. Tanks and armoured vehicles continued to smash through hastily constructed barricades of buses and tractor-trailers, and they fired upon the Slovenian defence units at Radenci six kilometres from the border of Austria The Guardian Weekly reported that the late night celebrations at the cathedral by the Three Bridges in Ljubljana gave way to the cold hard realisation that day break had brought war. The declaration of war sullied the victory celebrations of independence on Tuesday the 25th of June 1991. Offices closed, and supermarkets saw a frenzy of activity as Slovenians stocked up for the siege. A relative recounts the horror of the bomb sirens and the many fruitless and anxious hours spent underground in Maribor bomb shelters. Forty Yugoslav army tanks and twenty transporters from Vrhnika, were made impotent by the rapid actions of the Slovenians and their power instantly diminished by the road blocks of the domestic army. Those unmoved by the chaos, fear and expectation would have led remote existences indeed. There would have been Slovenians who would have dismissed the danger of what was happening with cool bravado,and an eagerness to defend their homeland. A petrol station attendant 30, with a newly acquired Soviet made grenade and a anti-tank rocket launcher dismissed suggestions that the Slovenians were under equipped and added that the "best weapon was the heart". Mark 26,a police reservist believed that the situation was; 'Ridiculous and medieval. I can't believe we have this Bolshevism,this primitivism here in the heart of Europe...It's our homes, our women who are under attack" Both men illustrate clearly that this would have been an emotional time. The dangerous nature of both their defiant stands should not be understated, this was a civil war. The reports of the time show a significant civilian contribution to the defence of Slovenia The tyranny of distance is such that it leaves those separated by thousands of kilometres anxious and nervous when all is not well in the country of their birth, their true homeland. The events of these days would have had an impact on the lives of all Slovenians, regardless of what generation they belong to. The next article will look at the remaining days and attempt to understand the reasons for what happened in the ten day seige of Slovenia The reasons, as outlined in the introduction, include Slovenian bravery and determination to the cause of independance. The events of late June and early July illustrates that the tenacity of the Slovenians helped them through a period of their modern history which should never have happened. The fight was well and truely on and every Slovenian was involved. ❖ Bibliography. Sydney Morning Herald June 29 1991 Yugoslavia bombs Republic pi-13 Grafenauer N (ed) foreword to The case of Slovenia Ljubljana 1991. Traynorl The Guardian Weekly Friday 28th DusanN A Chronology of the Decay of Tito's Yugoslavia 1980-91 cited GrafenauerN ibid Gelt D Broadsheet printed by Distinction Printing ).Sun Herald Jan 20 1991 tètorp of lobenta A ¡Part Œtoelbe The Catholic Church and the State of Slovenia Relations between the Roman-Catholic Church and the State between 1945 and 1990 are roughly divided in three periods by historians: the conflict period (1945-1960), marked by disjunctive processes, conflicts, competition; the compromise period (19601987), dominated by conjunctive processes, conformation and cooperation, mutual tolerance and agreeing; and the period after 1987 when tire relations have normalised completely. The relations have been normalised at a symbolic level by the celebration of Christmas as a work free day (1989), by the public support of Church institutions to the democratic social and political changes in Slovenia, and by the return of the Church to secular press and electronic media. Changes of the political system after the first multi-party elections after World War II in April 1990, founding of independent Slovenia in 1991 and the new Slovenian Constitution have created the basis for a new status of the Roman-Catholic Church in Slovenia in accordance with the regulations in force in Europe at the end of the 20th Century. After World War E and the dominance of Bolshevik forces, a sharp conflict emerged between the state and Church authorities, during which a number of priests were killed. In the post-war period, the ideological and political model of the state and communist party policy towards the church was the same all over former Yugoslavia, yet in Slovenia there were some attempts to open a dialogue and settle the relationship between the Church and the State. Hereby, it is worth mentioning the liberation war (1941-1945) in Slovenia differed from the centralist and Bolshevik revolution model in the rest of Yugoslavia so much that the readiness to talk with the Church in Slovenia was much stronger than elsewhere. President of the first Slovenian Government, Boris Kidric, suggested as early as July 1945 talks with the Church on the basis of a memorandum of Slovenian Catholic priests; however, owing to the objections to national political solutions, and on the other Iiand due to the pastoral letter of Church authorities in September 1945, the talks were not realised. The Roman-Catholic Church, rejecting the new political systems in Yugoslavia, demanded, in the above mentioned letter of Yugoslav Catholic bishops full freedom of Catholic press, re-introduction of Church schools, religious education in all public elementary and secondary schools, caritative activities, full freedom of human personality and its rights, respect of the Christian law and restitution of the confiscated goods. The Church strongly objected to the agrarian reforms, the new constitution declaring the separation of the State from the Church, and to the ban on political activities on religious basis. These objections gave the State reason enough to repress the Church and formally limit its activities. A large number of Slovenian priests were imprisoned, some of them were even executed. The whole situation reached its lowest point in 1952 when all contacts between the Roman-Catholic Church and the State of Yugoslavia were broken off In Slovenia, the Cyril-Method Association of Catholic Priests of Slovenia, founded in 1949, tried to improve the situation. It was supported by the State, trying to loosen the unity of the clergy. On the other hand, the privileges of the Association whose members were nearly a half of all Slovenian priests, enabled the spreading of the Church activities. The changes regarding socialism and communism brought by the Second Vatican Council (1961 -1965) were quite favourable to the situation in Slovenia. Thanks to the efforts of Slovenian bishops the Church seized the Yugoslav Government with a memorandum which said the then Yugoslav constitution and laws were a reasonable basis for starting talks about spreading practical religious and Church freedom. The negotiations that followed the document were concluded by signing a protocol and by the re-establisliment of diplomatic relations. The relations were further improved by the co-operation of Church and political representatives in religious committees in the framework of the Socialist Association of the Labourers (SZDL). Religious press started to be published again, a systematical restoration of churches began, male and female religious orders were re-established, while anti-Church propaganda disappeared from the media. Nationally autonomous policy of Slovenia started to be more obviously implemented in 1987, while since the adoption of the constitutional amendments in 1989 the Catholic Church and Catholic citizens have had the same rights as in any democratic society. Article 7 of the Constitution of the Republic of Slovenia, adopted in 1991, stipulates the separation of the State from religious communities, which are granted the right to carry out their activities. The relations between the State of Slovenia and the Roman-Catholic Church after 1991 have been marked by the efforts of the Church to establish partner relations with the State, and to assure the redress of all wrongs done to the Church, in particular the confiscation of Church property during World War II. A search for a "new border line" between the roles of both institutions as well as for the possibilities of their co-operation in education, culture and social affairs lias been going on. A permanent and relatively open, although not always tolerant dialogue between both sides has been typical for the period of the last live years. Hie Office of the Government of Slovenia for Relations with Religious Communities has for two years been in charge of a quicker solving of any problems in the relations with some 20 religious communities. The open issues regarding the status of the Roman-Catholic Church are, however, solved in the framework of the mixed Commission of the Church and the Government, founded in 1992. It has already had seven meetings. Generally it is estimated the talks have so far been quite fruitful: the State, even if it has not yet decided about the basic ways of financing the Roman-Catholic Church, has been financially supporting some of the Church programmes and activities, for instance Caritas, social insurance of priests, Faculty of Theology (which has recently areestablished itself as a part of the University of Ljubljana), three colleges, nurseries... Following the liberalisation of radio diffusion and telecommunications (Continued on page Robar Bros PTY LTD ACN 066 032 111 BSC Licence No 62799C ■ Excavation • Concreting Specialist • Bogie Tipper Hire ■ Drott Hire * Backhoe Hire Dogtrailer Hire rj • Stencil & Stamped concrete specialist • Commercial & Domestic work • Hourly & Contract price available Director: Eddy Robar > Mobile 018 067 553 63 Kent Road AH 02 623 1612 Orchard Hills NSW Fax 02 623 3625 All Work Guarantied Over 30 yrs experience Regional Profile: Logarska Dolina by Boris Kobal In a picturesque pocket in central north Slovenia lies Logarska Dolina. Straddling the Austrian border, it is as close to Ljubljana as it is to Klagenfurt as the crow flies - across the high Alps which line the border. Logarska Dolina is part of the upper Savinja Valley. The name Savinja Valley is given to the urea which starts at the upper reaches of Logarska Dolina called Okreselj and goes as far as the river gorge at Letus, near Celje. Logarska Doiina on the other hand spans from Okreselj to the town called Logarska Dolina, a distance of about 7km. Logarska Dolina is a valley cut deep into the central range of the Savinjske Alps. The average width of the valley floor is 250m and the valley rises slowly from 720m to 1100m at the foot of the Rinka waterfall. Either side of the valley is lined with many mountains of around 2000m in height. With this description, one can imagine this picture book alpine valley with lush meadows and grasslands along the river completely surrounded by tree covered mountainsides and powerful limestone peaks covered with snow! The valley has three sections. The lowest section is called "Log", the middle part is "Plest" and the upper part is "Kit". Log and Plest is covered in clay soil and covered with grassy meadows. This is the inhabited part of Hie valley. Old depictions of Logarska Dolina indicate that this part of the valley still managed to preserve its pristine image over the centuries. Logarska Dolina was formed by the glaciers of the last ice age. This is evidenced by the glacial deposits and boulders at the mouth of the valley. As the glacier receded, the Rinka waterfall at the end of the valley was formed. Whilst there are about twenty waterfalls in Logarska Dolina, the best known is the Rinka waterfall. After leaving the car at the carpark, it is a short but energetic walk to the waterfall. This waterfall drops its ice-cold but crystal clear water over a 90m cliff landing in a rock-filled pool. On the right hand side of the waterfall is a cafe precariously perched on the side of the cliff. If you do not suffer from vertigo, a visit to this cafe can be enjoyable, partaking in some locally made slivovic whilst looking over the beautiful view. Soon after the waterfall, the water travels underground and resurfaces as the second source of the Savinja in the vicinity of the Logar farm. If you have had enough of the waterfall Ritika (and the other nineteen found in the valley) there are other natural points of interest worth visiting. These include swallow holes, pointed rocks, river sand banks, water springs, caves and boulders, all formed during the aeons of the earth's evolution. Logarska Dolina also has a history of conservation dating back many years. In fact back in 1931, 426 hectares of land around Okreselj (near Rinka) was purchased by the Celje mountaineers for the very purpose of preservation. This has developed into the Nature park of Logarska Dolina which, by proclamation, ensures that the area remains a sanctuary for many plants and animals. There is a parking fee for the valley. However, the end result is an area rich in nature's gifts unspoilt but fully accessible by the public. Apart from the appreciation of nature, there are many activities available in the valley. For the mountaineer, there are a number of walks and climbs suitable for the visitor Mountain huts and refuges such as Kamiska Koca on the Kanmisko Sedlo are found on the periphery of the valley. Organised walks can uncover many naturally occurring beauty spots. Similarly, there are numerous starting points in Logarska Doiina for rock climbing. There are short but difficult free climbing routes such as around Mt Rinka and Mrzla Gora, again on the periphery of Logarska Dolina. An interesting aspect of rock climbing in this area is the possibility of climbing frozen waterfalls in the winter months! Logarska Dolina is also a home of alpine skiing and snow boarding. A green winter is no obstacle as there are snow making machines and capacity for 8000 skiers per hour! Cross-country skiing and ski-touring can offer a different experience of winter nature with many routes through the forests of the valley. Willi the many high peaks available, paragliding can offer long and safe flights. Klemensek farm, reachable by car, has a relative glide height of 400m landing in Logarska Dolina. If deciding to stay in the valley for a few days appeals to you there are a number of options available. At the upper end of the market there is Hotel Plesnik. This modern and recently completed four star hotel is sensitively built to match the surrounding architecture. With all the modern appointments in the rooms and health facilities such as a heated pool, spa and sauna, it is a heavenly escape. This is in harmony with the beautiful view from many of the rooms overlooking the green valley floor and the surrounding mountains. If you are looking just for a place for lunch the restaurant at the hotel (from personal experience) offers high quality local cuisine. There are also many other places available for accommodation. Camp-sites such as campsite Logarska Dolina are available if you have a tent. Alternatively, there are a number of tourist farms such as Zohar, Plesnik and Lenar boarding houses and inns such as Dom Planincev and Dom Palenk, There are a number of ways to get to Logarska Dolina. The main road starts just west of Celje and heads northwest, going through Nazarje and Luce. It is a beautiful drive along the Savinja valley, a powerful river which has been known to cause great damage when weather conditions can turn it into a raging torrent. On the way, don't forget to stop and have a look at Igla (Needle) an imposing and high rock formation almost overhanging the main road between Luce and Solcava, or the Savinski Gaj which is a botanical garden at Mozirje, ❖ Ignacij Hladnik Australian Tour 16th July- 4th August 1996 Church Choir from Tržič Slovenia By Henry Stariha THE CHOIR - A PROFILE The choir was founded in 1979. Many generations of young people and students have been singing in this choir - if you count everyone who has ever participated the number totals 140. Every week the choir performs at Sunday services and in addition the choir also sings secular choir music. The choir has until now premiered many works in Slovenia, like those of Saint-Saens, Zeneka, Buxtehude, W. Mathias, R.V. Williams and J. Rutter. In 1994 the choir sang parts of Handel's Messiah in some concerts. Later this year the choir is planning to perform Mozart's Requiem. At their 15th anniversary the choir accompanied by an orchestra recorded a CD "Presveta noč" (Most Holy Night). They were the first church choir in Slovenia to have recorded it's own CD. There are some unknown and previously unrecorded Slovenian and foreign carols recorded on this CD. The choir has also sung abroad: in Rome, Salzburg, Vienna and Paris. In 1995 the choir toured the USA and Canada (Chicago, Cleveland and Toronto). The choir has been conducted by Vito Primožič since its beginning in 1979. There are 50 choristers singing in the choir, but only 30 managed to participate in the Australian Tour. THE TOUR On Sunday 4 August I had the pleasure of listening to a young Slovenian choir. The choir "Ignacij Hladnik" comprises 30 singers whose average age is 22 years. They had been touring Australia and were on their last full day in Oz when I saw them perform at St Rafael's Church in Merrylands. It was great to see a group of young Slovenians touring our side of the world for a change. It was a chance to see what some of the younger Slovenians are like and what their reactions are to this country. Their tour started in Melbourne where they sang at St Cyril & Methodius church in Kew and mingled with the Slovenian community. They proceeded to Canberra where they toured our Capital city, but as this was a midweek stop they missed seeing the Slovenian community. They then proceeded to Geelong and Adelaide, where they once again performed. The journey around Australia became more adventurous from this point. They began an 8000km trek through the heart of Australia stopping at Coober Pedy, visited Uluru & Katatjuta (for those not up with the name changes, Ayers Rock &. The Olgas) where an urge to get out and climb was particularly overwhelming especially as they are Slovenians and felt the need to climb Australia's Triglav - Uluru, Next was Alice Springs, Mt Isa and then Townsville by which time they were glad to get out of their seats for longer than 2 hours. They had just spent most of this part of the trip sleeping in the bus. A well deserved break from those dreaded bus seats was long overdue. They exchanged their bus seats for seats on a boat heading out to the Great Barrier Reef for a well earned swim and general look around at one of the world's great wonders. Getting back on the bus at Townsville some of these tourists must have been wondering what the hell they had got themselves in for. What sort of country is this that has 200-300km at a time without a single soul in sight, endless scenes of desert, savanna grass lands, outback bush and tropical forests. Then they travelled another 1416km to Brisbane, 12 more hours in those bus seats driving past endless beaches along the east coast. In Brisbane they met with some local Slovenians. From there they endured the long haul to Sydney- another 12 hours in those bus seats looking at surf and beaches. A real contrast from the previous 10 days. By this time some of them must have wished they were at home-relaxing in a cafe somewhere around Tržič. Sydney: by this time they were pretty keen to stay in one place after spending most of the trip driving around and glued to a bus seat. They stayed at a hostel in Kings Cross. One of the girls 1 spoke to said they had nothing like Kings Cross in Slovenia. Just walking down the main street in Kings Cross gave them so much to look at. "There were lots of interesting people, some even trying to get you mto their strip clubs and sex shops," she said. (Continued on page 17) (Continued from page 16) nto their strip clubs and sex shops, she said. Father Valerijan organised a bus driven by our very own, Frank Loncar, to drive them to Merrylands the next day, which just happened to be Sunday. They sang at Mass and also performed a short concert afterwards. They were very well received. That afternoon they performed at the Slovenian Association Sydney where, even though there weren't many people present, they had a great time partying until well after 8pm. If there had been more forewarning of this choir coming to Sydney with more promotion, many more people would have had the opportunity to meet and party with this young group of Slovenians. Most people just didn't know they were coming nor knew where they were performing, typifying yet another communication deficit within our community. More honest and open channels of communication from both the performers and those who organised this lightening visit could have provided a much better cultural event for us all to enjoy. The next day they flew out of Kingsford Smith airport on a Qantas jet heading for home, hopefully with many good memories of their adventure "down under" and probably, wishing to never see another bus seat again. You may ask, how did they afford a trip like this? Well, lots of fund raising helped subsidise each person's fare. Each paid $700 out of their own pockets, and a good group deal from Qantas also helped. ❖ (Continued from page 14) the Roman-Catholic Church founded its radio station Ognjisce, and at the end of 1995 also a TV station. In the framework of the new education legislation, Slovenian parliament passed in March this year after long discussions, education on religions and ethics has been introduced to elementary schools as an option. The restitution of real estate to prewar owners, among them the Dioceses of Ljubljana, has, however, been frozen under a resolution passed by Parliament. The representatives of the Roman-Catholic Church in the above mentioned Commission have been trying to achieve some other changes and solutions which have been characterised by the State as issues of further negotiations as they do not comply with the Constitution or the State objects to them for any other reason. These are, for example, legal recognition of church marriages (in accordance with the canon law), validity of the judgements of Church courts in the civil law, representation of the Church in the institutions deciding about the protection of cultural heritage, restitution of the property of the former Religious Fund to the Church and similar. ♦> SOURCE: ENGLISH SERVICE NEWS FROM SLOVENIA FS & GS fVdZfy PLUMBING H.I.S. Electrics - Drainage - Gasfitting - Maintenance & Repairs For all your plumbing needs phone Frank Skubla ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR GOLD LICENCE NO: EC38345 For all your Electrical work call Henry Stariha (02) 674 7993 Mobile (018)256 516 Gold Lie No. 11621 C.A. No. A.3587 Phone: (02) 624-6132 (jjf^ Mobile: 018 972 425 TRIGLAV Club Limited *Full Membership invited * Function Facilities available * Bowls, Snooker, Bingo * Restaurant Ph: 610 1627 Fax: 823 2522 Club Events in 1996 Please contact the club for specific dates • OCtovski Dan September BBQ -12 noon Dance - 2 till 6pm • Wine Tasting November BBQ -12 noon Dance - 2 till 6pm • Miklav§evanje December BBQ -12 noon Dance - 2 till 6pm • New Years Eve December Dance - 8pm till late into the New Year! Triglav Club Limited (ACN 001 297 927) 80 - 84 Brisbane Road, St Johns Park NSW 2176 Letters Dear ASR team, Thank you for including the acknowledgement of the Christmas Pageant in the Summer 1995 edition of ASR. I have listed some issues below which may be of interest to your readers. On the subject of Slovenian Folk music a thesis on this subject has been written by Kathryn Hardwick (now Franco, she recently married John, an Australian-Slovenian) for which she gained a first class honours degree in Music from Adelaide University. The title of her thesis is "Slovenian music and dance in Adelaide. The preservation of urban-ethnic music." A copy of the bound thesis is lodged at Adelaide University library, Slovenian Club Adelaide and Ljubljana University. Kathryn is continuing her musical studies and will be working towards a Masters degree and again Slovenian music and dance will form the backbone of her curriculum. She anticipates The ASR welcomes suggestions and comments. Send correspondence to: ASR PO Box KL806 Kings Langley NSW 2147 Australia visiting Slovenia in order to incorporate developments in folk music. Another Australian - Slovenian Patricia Le has been recognised for her work in architectural design. Patricia was the project architect responsible for transforming an eyesore State school (in Adelaide) into an entertaining and functional place to learn. Patricia and her team, from the South Australian State services, have won the Civic Trust's most outstanding award for 1995. The project also won last year's Royal Australian Institute of Architects' Sir Zelman Cowen Award, the highest recognition in Australia for work on public buildings. The talent keeps running in the Le family. Patricia's brother Daniel is a professional artist who has had his works exhibited in galleries in Australia, New Zealand and now Slovenia. A few years back both Patricia and Oaniel performed in a Slovenian band called Glasba Australia which performed for Slovenian communities in Adelaide, Sydney and Melbourne. Patricia played both Violin and Bass guitar and Daniel played Saxophone. The group also performed at the Adelaide Festival of Arts, Adrian Vatovec Adelaide SA It is always a pleasure hearing about the achievements of Australian Slovenians. Acknowledging these achievements is part of our charter and it serves to motivate others to reach their full potential. I am sure that our readers would be very interested in reading more detailed articles about the experiences and accomplishments of both yourself and Kathryn Hardwick , Patricia Les and Daniel Les. Perhaps Adrian you would consider becoming an ASR Adelaide correspondent and co-ordinator. Give it some thought! Ed. Dear ASR team, Thank you so much for sending me the ASR. I do enjoy the articles. Again many thanks Mary Dejak Thank you Mary for your kind words of encouragement. Ed. ■■■■■I Euro International I "AUSTRALIA I 'ilir Pty Ltd (A.C.N. 050 989 618) Euro Furniture Wide range of colonial furniture from Slovenia. Dining settings, Rocking chairs, Bentwood chairs and Modern bedrooms. Available at all leading furniture retailers Euro Trading Trading with Slovenia in chemical commodities, pharmaceutical & food products, metals, machinery, sporting equipment and a variety of other products. Sydney Branch 2 A Bessemer Street Blacktown NSW 2148 Ph: 02 671 5999 Fax: 02 621 3213 Showroom Address 3 Dalmore Drive Scoresby VIC 3152 Ph: 03 9764 1900 Fax: 03 9764 1461 COOKING SLOVENIAN STYLE Mushroom Soup with Potatos Anyone who has spent a bit of time in Slovenia will know that September is the best time for picking mushrooms. People of all ages head for the woods with their small cane baskets, exploring hidden parts of the forest in search of its delicacies. It is an exceptional treat when one discovers a prize specimen growing peacefully under the tall beech trees, and it is an even greater event when the family gathers around the table for a feast made from freshly picked mushrooms. So, as you head for the local Aussie supermarket in search of a special mushroom discovery, cast your thoughts towards the idyllic forests of Slovenia and pretend you are there. We guarantee you, your mushroom soup will then taste even better. S \ Ingredients 1/2 kg of fresh, mushrooms (any kind) 4 cloves of garlic (if you don't like garlic, use an onion instead) 1 large bunch of fresh parsley 3 ripe tomatos 2 tablespoons of oil 1/2 kg of potatos 1 tablespoon of flour salt pepper marjoram vinegar 100 grams of sour cream Method Wash the mushrooms and slice them thinly. Chop up the garlic and parsley as finely as you can. Then cut the tomatos into small chunks. Quickly fry the garlic and half of the parsley in the oil and as soon as the garlic turns a golden colour, add the tomatos and the mushroom and allow the mixture to fry slowly for around 15 minutes. In the meantime, peel, wash and dice the potatos. Add the potatos and continue to fry until all liquid has evaporated. Add the flour, salt and pepper. Stir well, then add enough water to cover the ingredients. Cook slowly. When the potatos are soft, turn down the heat and add the other half of the parsley, the marjoram and the sour cream. Add vinegar to taste. Dober tek! MAPLE- An ouisl new design series Extensive range of 3.4 or i bedroom pbn Can be modified to suit vour need.s Phone for FREE colour Leaflets or call and inspect the style and quality of our Display Homes. Telephone: 02-629 4394 or 02-671 3155 Ter y ■iencc exPe1 building ROSEWOOD A V HOMES Exceptional Value, Top Quality and Stylish appearance. Variety of areas in West. North West and South Western suburbs. Some ready to occupy now. Builders lie No. 34806 - Where Quality and Service are bit ill in • ACN 002 M- m Display Homes • Homeworld II. Hampton Crescent, Prospect ■ Parklea Home Market, Sorrento Drive. Glen wood Park. New Homes Built on your land House & Land Packages • Perfect for first home buyers. • Ideal for investors WINNER 1995-96 Crossword ACROSS 4 A small town and an Alpine winter and summer resort 5 To press (in Slovenian) 6 A Slovenian Karst village under a hill which has St Peter and Paul's church 7 Fire 10 With which country do you associate "Haggis" 11 Stopping place 12 This gorge is situated NE of Bled 13 This is Slovenia's largest National Park 15 Who first reached the South Pole 18 In which religion is Hannukah a festival 19 Which country is associated with Paella 21 Swine 22 City by the Savinja river 23 One hundred (in Slovenian) 24 Unhappiness 27 Fair 28 The biggest city in Gorenjska 30 Lovely (in Slovenian) 31 Cost DOWN 1 Broom (in Slovenian) 2 Lease 3 Drop 4 A Sloveman castle, once a Cartesian monastery 5 Chair (in Sloveman) 7 Spnng 8 Alpine village in the Soca gorge 9 North American Indian tribe 13 A high Alpine valley in the upper reaches of the Soca river 14 This country is associated with mousaka 15 A popular event at Bled in summer 16 A legendary beast which was half man / half bull 17 Wandering people 20 Look through 22 Farm-yard bird 25 Self 26 Dandy 29 Kind ❖ Answers on Page 5 Did you want a copy of the Australian Slovenian Review, need to change your address or cancel your free copy? Fill in the details below and send to: Australian Slovenian Review C/- P.O. Box KL 806 Kings Langley NSW 2147 □ I would like a copy □ Please change my details □ Please cancel my copy Name Address Postcode If you know someone else who would be interested in receiving a copy of the ASR please pass this form lo them. ; Back issues are also available at $5 each. Please send your orders to the above address. ;