Winter 2025

Where uncertainty met hope ...

Block 19 of the Bonegilla Migrant Reception and Training Centre was the “first step” in Theofanis Emmanouilidis’ life in Australia and an experience that still holds great significance more than 70 years on.

Despite the shock of a new language and with only a suitcase in tow, Theofanis carried a strong sense of purpose and hope for a better life during his six-day stay in the February of 1954.

“It was completely strange, but I wanted to be a good citizen in Australia because I was thinking of staying here. It was my last stop,” Theofanis said.

“I went to sleep and when I woke up, the sun was rising and I realised I was in this wonderful country of Australia. It was very special and I will never, ever forget this moment for as long as I live.”

Theofanis was one of 18,441 Greek migrants who passed through Bonegilla between 1947 and 1971 – among the centre’s wider group of 320,000 people from more than 50 countries.

These personal memories and more are now captured as part of the exhibition Finding Home, presented in partnership by the Dardalis Archives of the Hellenic Diaspora at La Trobe University and Wodonga Council.

Finding Home will be on display for one year until June 30, 2026.

📷 Emmanouilidis family arrive at Station Pier, Port Melbourne 1955, ARM 97.141.

Article written by La Trobe University.

READ THE FULL ARTICLE [[link removed]] Finding Home

Honouring the Greek-Australian migration story, the exhibition illuminates the trials and triumphs faced by Greek migrants, showcasing their resilience and remarkable contributions across generations. On display until June 30, 2026 [[link removed]] ►

Cartooning workshop

Wednesday, July 16, 11am

Come on a creative adventure these school holidays as you learn to draw fun Australian animal characters native to Wodonga. Afterwards take part in a scavenger hunt, follow the suitcase trail or play traditional games as you explore the historic site. Get drawing [[link removed]] ►

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 depart at 11am on Saturday and Sunday each week, scheduled until the end of August.

BOOK A TOUR [[link removed]] Side by side, every step of the way!

In March, Australian Lutheran World Service (ALWS) marked a significant milestone by celebrating their 75 year anniversary at their birthplace, Bonegilla Migrant Experience.

The event brought together former residents of the Bonegilla Reception and Training Centre, offering a poignant opportunity to reconnect and reflect at the historic site.

Back in 1948, where more than 1000 Lutheran migrants resided at Bonegilla, Rev. Muetzelfeldt was appointed as a full-time chaplain.

As the needs of the community grew, so too did the role of Lutheran World Service. The organisation became a vital advocate, liaising with government officials to uphold the rights and entitlements of new migrants.

This was just the beginning of Albury Wodonga's own international humanitarian aid agency.

📷 Lutheran former residents pictured at Australian Lutheran World Service’s 75 year anniversary, Bonegilla Migrant Experience.

Volunteer with us!

We’re currently looking for enthusiastic front-of-house volunteers to join our team. You will play a vital role in preserving and sharing the unique history of our site by helping visitors connect with their roots while contributing to the rich cultural narrative of Bonegilla. Find out more [[link removed]] ►

Her father's footsteps

We recently welcomed Susan to the place where her Hungarian father, Janos Lorencz began his Australian journey 75 years ago. Arriving in 1949, he secured employment within the migrant centre, working for almost 12 months before departing, Melbourne bound. 📷 Pictured next to a photo of her father on Canteen Service.

Teacher's legacy lives on

Earlier this year former teacher, Mr Paul Crowe OAM, along with his son Peter, called into Bongeilla Migrant Experience to view their new plaque.

Honouring his time teaching children of migrants, the plaque featured on the garden wall is the first to be displayed on this special section reserved for past staff.

In the Hume Club you will also find Mr Crowe’s audio-visual oral history recording as well as interpretation panels, documents and items relating to the operation of the school.

To learn more about Mr. Crowe’s teaching legacy at Bonegilla, read the article [[link removed]] featured on the Bonegilla Migrant Experience website.

READ THE ARTICLE [[link removed]] Commemorate your family’s journey

Personalised plaques are available to purchase anytime for inclusion on The Arc memorial sculpture, commemorating those at Bonegilla Migrant Reception and Training Centre between 1947 and 1971. Plaques are $243 each (price valid to June 30). Order online [[link removed]] ►

Fleeing for freedom

It was around January 1952 when Maria Anna Udović escaped the communists by heading north across the border to Trieste. After spending some time in a camp there, Maria - who would later be known as Mary - secured passage aboard the MS Skaubryn, sailing to Australia.

Her sister Ivanka initially traveled with her but returned home to be with their mother after their father had died years earlier - leaving Maria to continue the journey alone.

She boarded the ship carrying a suitcase containing her knitted lace, a handwritten knitting pattern book, and bicycle spoke knitting needles. Ever studious, Maria taught herself some English during the voyage, prior to arriving in Melbourne - where she went straight from the dock onto a train bound for Bonegilla.

It was Wednesday, September 10, 1952, when Maria arrived at Bonegilla Migrant Reception and Training Centre. She would later share memories of Bonegilla with her children - including the ever-present smell of mutton within the camp.

After spending a short time at Bonegilla, Maria took a position as a cleaner at the Happy Valley Hotel in Ovens.

In memory of Mary Anna Walker (née Maria Anna Udović), who passed away on April 8, 2017, aged 88. Her story is written and shared by her daughter, Christine Walker.

READ MORE ABOUT MARIA'S MIGRATION [[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, 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.

Copyright Wodonga City Council

All rights reserved Privacy [[link removed]] | Edit Subscription [link removed] | Unsubscribe [link removed]