Mark your calendars for a weekend of live music, cultural discovery and immersive events as Bonegilla Migrant Experience presents Spring into Bonegilla, from Friday, November 7 to Sunday, November 9.
Past residents, their families, the Wodonga community and visitors from across the region are invited to reconnect with Australia's migrant history and take part in a vibrant program of events hosted on the historic grounds of Block 19.
Bonegilla Migrant Reception and Training Centre was the first Australian home for more than 320,000 migrants as they began a hopeful new chapter in their lives following World War II.
Today, the National Heritage-listed site welcomes visitors daily to explore its rich migrant legacy and discover stories of resilience, hope and new beginnings.
Now, Bonegilla Migrant Experience is set to bloom this November with an engaging weekend of exploration, music and cultural activities to suit all ages.
At the heart of the weekend is the headline event, Music in the open-air with Vardos, promising an unforgettable Saturday afternoon of lively folk and Romani music.
Renowned for their captivating performances across Australia and Europe, the talented trio are ready to fill Bonegilla's picturesque grounds with the dynamic rhythms of traditional Eastern European music. Inspired by years of travel and learning from Roma musicians in Romania and Hungary, Vardos' passionate performance will take audiences on a cultural journey steeped in history and emotion.
Each event is hard to miss, with highlights also including an exclusive in-depth tour of the former Bonegilla Migrant Reception and Training Centre on Friday, also offering a glimpse into the last remaining original building and footings at Latchford Barracks, rarely accessible to the public.
Accompanied by an on-site luncheon, this four-hour itinerary offers a unique opportunity to delve deep into the personal stories and legacy of one of the largest and longest operating migrant centres in the post-war era.
Throughout Saturday and Sunday, regular guided tours of the site will be offered, giving visitors the chance to step back in time, wander through history and reflect on the journey of the thousands of migrants who began their Australian story at Bonegilla.
Alongside tours and the open-air performance, guests can enjoy traditional board and lawn games, all-day Devonshire tea and the chance to relax and unwind with family and friends.
With high demand expected, don't miss out on this unforgettable weekend. Bookings close at 4pm on Monday, October 27, unless sold out prior.
Join us as we look forward to bringing this vibrant event to life at Bonegilla Migrant Experience this November.
