Migrant work camps in the post-World War II period housed displaced persons and special project workers from South Australian industries ranging from railways, water, and forestry to wineries, cheese makers, and hospitality. The experiences of new migrants in these settings were mixed, with many reporting considerable isolation and poor conditions, while others formed long-lasting bonds with those in their camp and the local community.
We know very little about this critical period in our history, as memories and stories have not been well-preserved. Join this interactive event on
Tuesday, 30 May 2023, starting from 6 pm until 7 pm at Hetzel Lecture Theatre, North Terrace, where you will be allowed to share your family's work camp stories along with photos or objects. Please note that the discussion during this event may contain some images and/or references to First Nations people who are deceased, and may discuss some sensitive topics.
This event will also give you a permit to learn how to access available historical resources at the National Archives of Australia. Please book
here for this FREE event that takes part in 2023 South Australia's History Festival. To find out more about 2023 South Australia's History Festival, please go to this
site.
This event is proudly supported by Hostel Stories Project School of Humanities, Faculty of Arts, The University of Adelaide. Hostel Stories is a research project aimed at finding out more about migrant hostels, reception centres and camps in South Australia. This project seeks to remedy the gaps in our historical record about the hostels by bringing together the memories of former residents with extensive archival research to compile the most comprehensive information to date on temporary migrant accommodation in South Australia. To find out more about this project, please go to this
site.
