Sam

In pursuit of the promise of better money and greater work opportunities, Sam, along with his then-wife and first-born son, embarked on a journey to Australia. It was much further away than he hoped to travel but after several rejections from European countries and long wait lists for entry, Australia was the only option. The country promised an abundance of job opportunities with higher wages for skilled migrants, particularly in trades crucial for Australia’s growing economy.

Their journey by boat led them to Melbourne, where the young family settled in Clayton. Sam, with a background in carpentry, immediately began searching for employment. However, his skillset wasn’t enough to secure the wages he sought. Determined to provide for his family, Sam explored other avenues to ensure a stable life far from his original home.

It was in a pub that Sam met a local plasterer who recognised his determined spirit and offered him a job within his growing plastering team. Sam embraced the opportunity to begin a new trade and have reliable employment. After 6 months of dedicated work, Sam’s boss encouraged him to begin his own plastering business to better support his growing family.

While Sam’s work life was beginning to take shape, he and his wife welcomed two more boys to their family. As the years went by, the family of 5 moved around suburbs across Melbourne’s East, before finally settling in Rowville.

Sam has been fortunate to support his family and provide a happy and good life in Australia. He’s been witness to his three sons becoming fathers and making him a grandfather of five. Alongside his family life, Sam’s passion for Bocce has been a big part of his life, a hobby and sport he regularly plays at the Rosebud Bocce club.

However, unforeseen challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and a marriage breakdown, prompted Sam to contemplate a return to Croatia. After 18 months, he returned to Australia, his home of 50 years, seeking a fresh start which brought him to Orana.

While the transition hasn’t been without its difficulties—leaving behind friends and a familiar community—Sam is gradually building new connections in Orana. He enjoys his morning walks and coffee outings, and has found a friend in Allison at Humble Merchant.

Sam’s journey from Croatia to Australia is a testament to hope, resilience, and unwavering determination. His experiences speak volumes about the transformative power of perseverance and the importance of community support and during life’s most challenging moments.