A scene that could only reflect a man that has truly seen the highs, lows and challenges of an ever-changing world, guests arrived to Frank Prihoda’s 100th birthday party donning masks.The fourth pandemic to grace the world during his lifetime, the celebration of Australia’s oldest living Olympian went ahead with party proceedings all adapted to meet current Covid-19 regulations.
There may not have been hugs and group photos, however the energy of the party was jubilant. Tables draped in European-style red and white check table clothes juxtaposed with decorative eucalypt centrepieces that occupied the large dining ballroom, mirroring Frank’s life lived over two unique countries. Lively guests including friends and family from the century who recounted stories and sipped champagne during a night filled with laughs, smiles – albeit covered – and endless stories being told by the seated attendees.
A testament to Frank’s many walks of life, guests comprised of dignitaries, family members, locals and snow-stars alike, all celebrating with a man who has made a profound impact on their lives and the lives of the mountain community in Australia and abroad.
Throughout the night, the room was addressed by speakers who have been pivotal in Frank’s last 100 years, bringing their memories to life. Filling the room with enthralling tales ranging from a daring escape from Czechoslovakia engrossed in a socialist revolution, to Olympic races surrounded by roaring spectators through to memories from individuals as they recounted the small moments of profound impact by those who crossed his path during the last 100 years.
Introduced to the stage by Master of Ceremonies two-time Winter Olympian and Thredbo local Jono Brauer, Thredbo General Manager Stuart Diver spoke of the immense contribution Frank has made to the fabric of the Thredbo community before handing over to dignitaries from the Embassy of the Czech Republic in Canberra.
Deputy Head of Mission, Embassy of the Czech Republic, Ondrej Bohac spoke of his relationship with Frank and his awe in the man who has experienced so much, before handing over to the Ambassador of the Czech Republic, His Excellency Mr Tomas Dub. Mr Dub presented Frank with the honorary “Gratias Agit” award. The Gratias Agit has been awarded by the Minister of Foreign Affairs since 1997 in appreciation of the promotion of the good name of the Czech Republic abroad by prominent persons developing activities in nongovernmental fields.
Director of Snow Australia representative, Winter Olympian and fellow Thredbo local, Mr Kim Clifford presented the Snow Australia Medal which recognises the achievements and careers of those past and retiring athletes who have represented Australia at the highest level of snow sport competition.
Guests sat back and took in the stories and heartfelt admiration spoken by other speakers including Frank’s nephew Michael Nekvapil, long-time neighbour and friend Michelle Reichinger and Thredbo local Gregg Quinn.
Decorated Australian artist, Zoe Young unveiled her newest portrait of Frank ‘Gate of the Century’ produced in his honour. Adorning the walls were Ms Young’s range of paintings of Frank throughout the years, each with their own distinct style and hue from black and white silhouettes to emotive detailed portrayals including one of Frank’s sister, Sasha.
When it was time for Frank Prihoda to make his address, the room was struck with admiration. Frank’s continuing lucidity, wit, charm and ability to engage and entertain at 100 years of age was a special moment, one that had a profound impact on every guest in the room.
As guests sipped Czech Pilsner Urquell provided by the Czech Embassy and enjoyed Australian alpine delicacies, they were invited to peruse Frank’s life-long memorabilia which was scattered throughout the room, taking in tangible glimpses from a century of a life well lived.
The spectacular of the night concluded with a special flare run by Thredbo Snow Sports instructors and one of the biggest and best fireworks displays in Thredbo’s history before coffee, cake and Franks’ favourite Czech desserts, rakvičky, rohlicky, babovky and ovocny kolac were served.
