Our history
In the early 1960’s, Government assisted migration saw the number of Spanish residents rise significantly in Fitzroy, establishing the western end of Johnson St as Melbourne’s Spanish Quarter.
Padre Eduardo Sanchez, the appointed Chaplin to the Spanish Community, persuaded the Spanish Government to purchase a building in Fitzroy, to serve as a social centre. Initially called the Spanish Roman Catholic Mission, it soon became the Hogar Espanol, also known as The Spanish Club.
Professional Spanish boxer and former Australian light, heavy-weight champion Ricardo Marcos became the first elected president of the Club.
More than a place for the Spanish community to meet and socialize, it also served as a place where their children could learn Spanish and cultural heritage, be it through music, art, or dance.
Since then, the Club has had as many as 500 members. It quickly became the hub for social events, fiestas and more. For decades, the Spanish Club was where the community celebrated their cultural identity and a place to feel at home.
The Committee
The Spanish Club, Hogar Español is a Social Club run by an energetic, forward thinking, volunteer committee for the benefit of its members. Our aim is to maintain, foster and promote Spanish culture through food, entertainment, social & community activities.
