New beginnings with a new installation

Recent visitors to the site may have noticed a few changes to the Beginning Place, with a new installation now in place.

Showcasing an important piece of Bonegilla's history, the interpretation signage delves into the daunting journey more than 300,000 people made by air, sea and train to reach Bonegilla. 

A brand-new seating upgrade in the Beginning Place is coming soon.

Elsewhere around the site we’ve been working closely with local contractors to undertake restoration works on some buildings, including the accommodation huts. 

These works are complete and the huts have been reopened. We thank visitors for their patience during this time.

Bonegilla State School replica display and holiday activities

Just in time for the September school holidays, we’re pleased to unveil our latest display - a replica of a Bonegilla State School classroom.

Listen to the oral history of former teacher Paul Crowe OAM (recorded by Simon Reich) as you browse the selected school documents laid out on the principal’s desk. Then, take your seat for a lesson in the English alphabet using (mess-free) ink wells and dip pens.

After you’ve finished exploring the newest display, check out the many other family friendly activities. There's a Look and Find, interactive Suitcase Trail, Discovery Cupboard, colouring station, lawn games and more!

School's out - join the fun >

Saturday, September 16 to Sunday, October 1 -  departing 11am daily

Get the family together and learn about the fascinating history of the Bonegilla Migrant Reception and Training Centre. Explore the original camp buildings and truly walk in the shoes of those migrants who made this their first Australian home. Fees apply. Come on a guided tour > 

Saturday, October 7, 2pm to 3.30pm 

Join us as we host a special concert as part of Wodonga's Senior Celebrations. 

Enjoy an afternoon listening to a curated selection of songs from Albury City Band in one of the historic buildings, then sample some light afternoon tea before taking a stroll through the heritage-listed site.

Optional bus pickup available from Wodonga CBD, transporting you directly to and from Bonegilla Migrant Experience.

Come celebrate - book your spot > 

Saturday, October 28, 3pm

Enjoy word class chamber music from Flinders Quartet in Tudor Hall with their stunning program Musical Portraits. Prior to the performance, participate in a pre-concert tour of Bonegilla Migrant Experience. Get your tickets >

Commemorate a loved one’s journey through Bonegilla Migrant Reception and Training Centre with an Arc memorial plaque.

Plaques are $232 and include your family name, place of origin as well as a certificate. To ensure your gift is placed on the sculpture in time for Christmas, please ensure you order your plaque by Saturday, October 28. Give a gift of history >

The Bonegilla Migrant Experience staff and volunteers are avid readers. Enjoy this must-read recommendation, available for purchase in our Welcome Centre.

Destination Australia by Eric Richards
Published in 2008

Neither fiction nor biographical, Destination Australia is a comprehensive review of Australian immigration since colonisation, predominately from 1901 and Federation.

It tells the story of the extraordinary transformation of Australia brought about by immigration. Set within the context of various countries competing for British migrants, learn about the quest to recruit as well as the various schemes and payments to encourage immigration to Australia.

The book highlights British plans to maintain the empire after World War I, the impact of the White Australia Policy, post-World War II immigration and the end of White Australia and subsequent immigration. It provides the changing political and economic background of Australian’s immigration story and includes snapshots of individuals, photos, statistics and an extensive bibliography.

It is an easy and informative read for anyone interested in immigration or social history.

Have you recently visited us at Bonegilla Migrant Experience? Feedback is always welcome. The information you provide helps us better what we do every day.

Complete the quick online survey >

Follow us on Facebook or Instagram and keep up-to-date with the latest news, upcoming events and shared stories from Bonegilla Migrant Experience.

We can't wait to welcome you!