Block 19 Bonegilla Migrant Experience

Size: 10 ha hectares 

Classification: Heritage 

Features:   The Beginning Place Interpretation Centre

Achievements to date

Ownership of the remaining 'Block 19' site was transferred from the Department of Defence to the Victorian Government in 1996. The Government in turn appointed parklands Albury Wodonga as the site’s management committee.

The Bonegilla Migrant Camp, in operation from 1947-1971, was Australia’s first, largest, and longest operating migrant reception centre. It became the first Australian home for some 320,000 post-war migrants from over 30 countries.

The camp has touched the lives of some 1.5 million Australians and stands as strong testimony to the post-war immigrants who came and settled here.

‘Block 19’ is deemed a priceless cultural heritage site of great national significance – contributing to the birth of multiculturalism.

The future

Development of ‘Block 19’ is well underway with the recent appointment of a project officer and construction of an interpretation wall and café.

Funding of $2 million for this project has come from the Office of Major Projects with the Department of State and Regional Development (Victoria).

An additional grant of $10,000 from Festivals of Australia will also contribute to the launch and celebration of the new interpretation wall development, scheduled for completion in April 2005.

Several other grants are being applied for, and a plan is being developed for sponsorship, including a tribute wall to be donated by interested parties.

Further support for the site and its development comes from the ethnic community at large. An in-kind commitment has also been provided by the Bonegilla Steering Committee, which equates to around $4,000pa. This committee presently comprises representatives from parklands, Murray Arts, Albury Regional Museum, Destination Albury Wodonga, Wodonga City Council, Albury City Council and a local historian.

A marketing plan has also been completed and copies of this are available from the Bonegilla Migrant Experience Project Officer who can be contacted at parklands.

parklands has assumed management for 'Block 19' at the former Bonegilla Migrant Reception Centre.

Block 19 Bonegilla was first home for some 320,000 migrants from more then 30 countries. The Department of Defence commissioned a Conservation Master Plan in 1996 before transferring ownership to the Department of Natural Resources and Environment.

Block 19 is recognised by entries in The Register of the National Estate and the Victorian Heritage Register.

Significantly, the Office of Major Projects with the Department of State and Regional Development (Victoria) has allocated $2,000,000 for the development of "Block 19", with $300,000 to be made available during 2001/2002.

What You Need to Know while in Parklands »

Further information on parklands tracks and trails, and the Bonegilla Migrant Experience, contact (02) 6023 6714.