177 Nations of Tasmania
177 Nations of Tasmania
Mark Thomson
Peter and Rebeka from Slovenia : A jeweller and an opera singer
41 minutes Posted Mar 4, 2022 at 8:17 am.
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Somewhat like Croatians, many Slovenians fled the former Yugoslavia to escape conscription and many found their way to Tasmania in the era of mass hydro-industrialisation that occurred in the 50s and 60s. 

Peter and Rebeka though are a new generation of Slovenians, who, thought they spent some of their childhood under Yugoslavia, have mostly lived in independent Slovenia.  Before deciding to settle in Tasmania, Peter had been to Australia many times before due to a family connection in Sydney, and Rebeka had toured in her role as an opera singer.  

3 years ago they decided to start a new life in Tasmania, with the small city life and an environment not too dissimilar from their homeland being a big part of the appeal, and Peter was able to secure work in Hobart as a jeweller. The transition to this new life has not been without its challenges both practical and cultural , and I'm sure that migrants from other backgrounds will relate to some of their stories.

Rebeka also performs as a part of a Slovenian-Tasmanian folk band, and excerpts of the music can be heard during this episode.

Music is Kaj ti je deklica? ( What is wrong my dearest ?) by Slovenian/Tasmanian folk band Lastovke (Swallows)