Top award for top Croatian tertiary student Mark Adams

SYDNEY - Learning the Croatian language can be a challenging task for even the most passionate person. But for one man, the achievement of learning basic Croatian language skills was worth so much more.

Towards the end of last month, on Wednesday the 26th of March, Sydney's Macquarie University rewarded its most exceptional students, in their various languages of choice, for their efforts in 2007.

Mark Adams was the deserved recipient of the award for the Croatian language course, a marvelous feat for someone who isn't even of Croatian background.

The $1,000 cheque, generously donated by Canberra's Mile and Ana Vidovic from Narona Homes, was presented to Adams by the Vidovic's son Mihovil.

Asked why he persisted with the language, Adams looked towards his wife Snjezana and said "We have two children and we want them to learn Croatian, so I thought that this could only be achieved if I learnt Croatian myself.

''Apart from this, one day we wish to travel to Croatia and maybe, if I can find a job, even live there in the future".

Adams was also delighted to receive a Croatian grammar book from the Croatian Studies Centre, and whilst in Sydney, he purchased two extensive Croatian dictionaries, for future use.

"You can tell that I still make many mistakes when speaking. I still need more practice, which I will get through regular conversation and whilst listening and watching Croatian television and radio.

The Croatian Study Centre, which is based at Macquarie University, would like to encourage other Croatians to follow Mark Adams' example and learn the rich Croatian language.

Luka BUDAK