Albury Wodonga is receiving a cultural tourism boost, with works advancing on the Bonegilla Migrant Experience to allow more visitors to connect with our country's fascinating migrant history.
Minister for Regional Development Mary-Anne Thomas today visited the Bonegilla Migrant Reception and Training Centre to see redevelopment works at this nationally-significant destination, which has received a grant of $800,000 through the Regional Tourism Investment Fund - Stimulus Round.
The Government-funded Bonegilla Identity Project will see the digitisation of a series of Bonegilla ID cards, part of 225,669 individual Bonegilla records and items held by the National Archives Australia.
The upgrade will ensure the preservation of records for migrants who passed through Bonegilla after World War II. The project will also provide families, visitors, historians and students with access to this important piece of Australia's history.
Funding will also contribute to the design and installation of a permanent interactive exhibition, which will provide a curated interpretation of Australia's post-war migration story. The Bonegilla Identity Project is expected to draw thousands of visitors to a destination that already welcomes more than 11,500 visitors annually.
The $46 million Regional Tourism Investment Fund - Stimulus Round forms part of the VisitorEconomy Recovery and Reform Plan, which is underpinned by an investment of $633 million.
For more information on the Regional Tourism Investment Fund - Stimulus Round and the Visitor Economy Recovery and Reform Plan visit djpr.vic.gov.au.
As stated by Minister for Regional Development Mary-Anne Thomas
"We are proud to be funding a project of national significance that will allow future generations to learn about the history of the Bonegilla Migrant Centre and our nation's migrant heritage, while creating more jobs in the region."
As stated by Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Martin Pakula
"Bonegilla is a famous name in Australia, and an important part of our history. Both in the digital realm and in the flesh, the story of Bonegilla will come alive for new audiences with the aid of these important projects."
As stated by Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes
"The people who went through Bonegilla shaped our history and culture as Victorians. This project is so important in recognising their impact, their struggles and their ultimate hope for a better life."
