Autumn 2025

Bonegilla legacy recalled

Laszlo and Eva Makay lived and worked at Bonegilla for almost 19 years, an amazing achievement that helped to shape Australian immigration history.

A little while ago, their daughter Trixie reflected on the legacy her parents left and how their contribution helped thousands of other migrants build a new future as Australians.

Trixie spent her young years at Bonegilla, camp life was home to the little girl.

“I have beautiful memories of our time there,” Trixie said. “I made a lot of good friends and we had a pretty ideal existence by the time we got to the mid-sixties.”

The above and below photographs are among many that Laszlo took at the camp after arriving there in 1951.

READ THE FULL STORY [[link removed]] Bonegilla - The migrant's journey

Friday, February 28, 7.30pm

Albury Entertainment Centre

You’ll cry, you’ll laugh but, most of all, you’ll be truly inspired by these gutsy migrant pioneers.

Curated by Simon Reich, this live show is inspired by his father’s survival of World War II, followed by his immigration to Australia.

Featuring video interviews and shared stories with post war migrants including their photo memories - accompanied by live music from Simon’s composed soundtrack.

While you are there, stop by and say hello to the Bonegilla Migrant Experience team who will be on hand with merchandise available to purchase.

BOOK YOUR SPOT [[link removed]] Classic cars roll into Bonegilla

Earlier this year The River City Coupe and Roadster wrapped up their 14th Anniversary Rally with a memorable visit to Bonegilla Migrant Experience.

We were excited to host 140 guests and 70 hot rods, spanning from post-war classics to 1960s icons.

It was a perfect fusion of history, heritage and horsepower, bringing car enthusiasts and history lovers together for a day of celebration and camaraderie.

Commemorative event

Saturday, March 22, 9am to 3pm

Australian Lutheran World Service are celebrating 75 years by returning to their birthplace at Bonegilla Migrant Experience. As part of the event, take part in the Step out to help a child Step Up! walk and help to support vulnerable children impacted by poverty and war. Walk my way [[link removed]] ►

School holiday fun!

Pack a picnic, get the family together and join us for loads of fun and discovery. Take part in a scavenger hunt, follow the suitcase trail or play traditional games while you explore the historic site. Free admission for children 16 years and under.

Upcoming guided tours

Step back in history, join our expert guide and walk in the footsteps of more than 300,000 newly arrived migrants. Immerse yourself in post war history, explore original camp buildings and discover stories of resilience, hope, and new beginnings.

Regular guided tours l Depart at 11am on Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday each week.

Additional guided tours l Depart at 11am as follows:

Monday, March 10 (labour day)

Friday March 14

Friday, March 21

Friday, March 28

Monday, April 7

Friday, April 11

Monday, April 14

Monday, April 21 (Easter Monday)

Monday, June 9 (King's Birthday)

SEE WHAT'S ON [[link removed]] Public holiday closures

Bonegilla Migrant Experience will be closed on Friday, April 18 for Good Friday and Friday, April 25 for Anzac Day. The site remains open all other days from 10am to 4pm over Autumn, except for days declared Catastrophic Fire Danger days.

Celebrate Mother's Day

Sunday, May 11 May

Get ready to gather your loved ones and celebrate Mother's Day at Bonegilla Migrant Experience with a special high tea that is sure to delight. Save the date and keep an eye out on our socials [[link removed]] and website [[link removed]], more details and bookings opening soon.

Cupid moves among the Balts!

Meeting on their journey to Australia by sea, Miss Erika Elksins, 22 and Mr Werner Bauman, 24 were engaged by the end of their voyage.

Becoming the first Baltic migrants to marry in Australia, they united at Bonegilla Migrant Reception and Training Centre, eight days after their arrival on December 16,1947.

The historic wedding took place in a former army hut used as a lecture hall at the migrant camp. The alter was a table draped with green and white with a small marble cross standing as the centrepiece.

Read the full story as found in the Border Morning Mail, December 17,1947 on Trove.

READ THE FULL STORY [[link removed]] New item in stock

New to our range of merchandise, magnetic bookmarks are now in stock and are available to purchase for $4 each from our Welcome Centre. The bookmark features a historic aerial image of the former migrant camp (1966) and a magnetic clasp to keep it secure to your book's page.

School bookings now open

Our 2025 calendar is now open for school visits via a direct booking with us.

A unique, historic experience, we offer engaging talks and site tours, investigative learning activities and cultural workshops for all school year levels and class sizes.

Coupled with comprehensive teaching resources, students will delve into the themes of immigration, cultural diversity and identity while exploring the National Heritage site.

Find out more and get in touch to book a school visit.

LEARN MORE [[link removed]] Volunteer opportunities

Are you passionate about history, tourism, or giving back to your community? Bonegilla Migrant Experience is looking for volunteers to join our team located at Bonegilla.

Help preserve Australia's rich migrant history and visitors connect with their roots as a Welcome Centre Volunteer:

Build connections with visitors Explore fascinating stories of the past Gain valuable skills in customer service and tourism

Or help present and maintain a welcoming environment for visitors as a Garden and Site Maintenance Volunteer:

Spend time outdoors gardening Gain valuable skills in grounds maintenance Building connections with others

With flexible shifts, a supportive team and the chance to make a meaningful impact in our community, this is your chance to be part of something truly special. Discover the rewarding opportunity of volunteering.

LEARN MORE [[link removed]] ID card look-up

Have you tried looking up your family's Bonegilla ID card? Each person or family group at Bonegilla was registered with an ID card which recorded dates of arrival and departure and more. Find someone [[link removed]] ►

We'd love your feedback

Have you recently visited us at Bonegilla Migrant Experience? We would love to hear about your experience. Always welcome, the feedback you provide helps us better what we do every day. Tell us about your experience [[link removed]] ►

Disclaimer: The information contained in this publication is general and is not offered as a complete or definitive statement of the relevant facts. Third party comments and information do not necessarily reflect the position of Wodonga Council and are provided only as a matter of interest, we therefore take no responsibility for the accuracy of third party material.

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