Zvonko Matošević

Matošević, Zvonko

Turner. (Zagreb, August 6, 1955 – Adelaide, October 24, 2016).

Trained and worked as a turner at the 'Nikola Tesla' factory in Croatia before migrating to Australia with his wife Biserka and son Robert for economic and housing-related reasons. The family arrived in Melbourne on 22 November 1981 and initially stayed at the Midway Centre Maribyrnong hostel. Shortly before Christmas that year, they relocated to Wollongong, NSW, where he found employment with Garnock & Sons as a metal turner. In late 1983, the family moved to Adelaide, where he worked at Adelaide Ship Construction International.

In 1985, he took the significant step of registering his own business, Garnock Engineering, fulfilling a long-held dream. His sons, Robert and Marko, both followed in his footsteps, joining the business after completing secondary school and the same trade as their father. He adapted well to life in Australia, becoming a respected member of both professional and community circles. He was a foundation member of The Croatian Club Adelaide, served as its secretary in 1995 and 1996, and was a member of the Croatian Golf Club Adelaide in 2001. He and his family regularly participated in Croatian Club activities, social events, and supported Adelaide Croatia soccer matches.

Although his life in Australia was marked by achievement, contribution, and family unity, his later years were cut short by a sudden illness. He died before he could fully enjoy the company and growth of his grandchildren, leaving behind a legacy of determination, community service, and quiet success.