Migrantweb.com Hostels Forum

[richardhallford]

Attached is a copy of the map of the future site of East Hills Hostel in 1949. I now have some 318 pages of documents covering the decision to procure the land and build the site. These documents are now available to the public on the National Archives of Australia site. Of interest is "Area 53" which would become East Hills Migrant Hostel and "Area 19" which would become Heathcote Hostel. Sirrius road does not yet exist at this stage and was put in for the Hostel. "Area 73" was also purchased, but was given over to the Naval dept for servicemen accommodation. Also of note is of the existence of East Hills Park at this time. The property was in the Parish of Holsworthy.


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East Hills Hostel Aug 1966 to 1968. Nissen Huts 81 and 83d

[GinaKate]

I don't know if I am the only one who thinks this way, but I'm fascinated by a map proposed in 1949 in anticipation of our future home, and the beginning of a strange new life for many of us who were not even born yet.

[richardhallford]

Your not the only one Gina. I am fascinated by history and what went on before to help form what is now.
Im currently sorting out the documents in chronological order, as they arent that way in the package. I can see already the pattern of development that went on via discussions in documents between the various bodies involved. There have been many discussions re East Hills Hostel being an ex army camp. This is completely untrue. It was purpose built expressly for Migrants and in fact is referred too in several documents as the British Migrant Hostel. The Army owned the land originally, but it was bought by the Dept of Works for a little less than $4000 for the lot!
Also, the Naval houses that were given to the Navy (the ones on the right hand side up Sirrius Road, was given away without anyone telling the Army. There is a nasty letter from the Army saying that no one had told them anything. Oops. :)
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East Hills Hostel Aug 1966 to 1968. Nissen Huts 81 and 83d