Brisbane@War: Australia, USA, Netherlands, and UK – Marking the 80th anniversary of WWII’s end with a symposium and tours
This year, 2025, marks the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, a momentous milestone in Australia’s history and the conclusion of the war in the Pacific. Brisbane played a pivotal role as
Beeb Birtles: From Dutch Roots to Australian Rock Legend
Beeb Birtles, born Gerard Bertelkamp on November 28, 1948, in Amsterdam, Netherlands, is a celebrated musician, singer, songwriter, and guitarist. As a founding member of iconic bands such as Zoot, Mississippi, and the Little River
Van Nederlands Indië naar Australië en terug: een persoonlijke reis door oorlog en repatriëring.
Auteur: Peter Wigleven Het bewogen leven van Ada de Bruyn In de documenten hieronder vindt u het bijzondere relaas van mijn moeder, Ada de Bruyn, zoals beschreven door K.W.L. Bezemer in Verdreven doch niet verslagen.
How did a VOC canon end up in Maryborough
N.E.I. ARTEFACT FOUND IN QUEENSLAND by Jack Ford Recently, Jack Ford was at Hervey Bay and he visited the nearby city of Maryborough. He visited the Town Hall building that was built in 1908 and
Remembering the Australian crew of Halifax III MZ 715 crashed in the Netherlands during WWII
On the night of June 23, 1944, the small town of Dodewaard in the Netherlands became an unwilling witness to the horrors of World War II. A Handley Page Halifax III bomber, serial number MZ
Marike Jager in Australia tour – 2025
Marike Jager, a renowned Dutch singer-songwriter, embarks on her first Australian tour. Her journey with music began while backpacking through Australia as a teenager, where she learned to play the guitar and gathered experiences that
Help uncover Dutch-Australian migration stories through the Rotterdamsche Lloyd collection
The Dutch Australian Cultural Centre (DACC) is happy to support the CBG|Centre for Family History in their initiative to make the collection of the Koninklijke Rotterdamsche Lloyd (1883–1969) accessible and searchable. This extensive collection includes
Vivian Bullwinkel and the Netherlands East Indies: A Story of Shared Wartime Sacrifice
In Grantlee Kieza’s compelling book, Sister Viv, the harrowing experiences of Australian Army nurse Vivian Bullwinkel during World War II are vividly recounted. The narrative highlights the profound connections between Australian and Dutch wartime histories,
Flight of De Uiver – 1934 New: Painting Added
The MacRobertson Trophy Air Race (also known as the London to Melbourne Air Race) took place in October 1934 as part of the Melbourne Centenary celebrations. The race was devised by the Lord Mayor of
The 18 Netherlands East Indies Squadron RAAF – WWII – Painting added.
The 18 Netherlands East Indies squadron RAAF was established on April 4 1942 They destroyed many Japanese operations on NEI, sunk 6 Japanese ships and numerous smaller boats.
Honouring the forgotten: Abraham Crijnssen and its role in Allied naval operations from Brisbane.
The HNLMS Abraham Crijnssen, a Dutch minesweeper famed for its remarkable escape from the Japanese-occupied Netherlands East Indies by disguising itself as a tropical island, reached Australia in March 1942. After a refit and the installation of
Dutch-born Ferdinand von Sommer left a trail of controversy across colonial Australia
Republished with permission. Original article was published in the Conversation on January 3, 2025 Author:Alexandra LudewigProfessor and Head of the School of Humanities, The University of Western Australia Disclosure statementAlexandra Ludewig does not work for,
No Sheltering Sky: Migrant Identities of Dutch Nationals from Indonesia
Wim Willems, Institute for Migration and Ethnic Studies, The Netherlands In this chapter, in the book: Europe’s invisible migrants “No Sheltering Sky: Migrant Identities of Dutch Nationals from Indonesia” by Wim Willems, delves into the
Alexander Jan Reitsma: Dutch economist and global academic influence
Read his full Wikipedia article here. Alexander Jan Reitsma (1919-1982) was a distinguished Dutch economist whose career bridged three continents, making significant contributions to the fields of international economics and trade policy. Born in Dordrecht,
Premiere of a Pierre’s Mill Documentary on the emigration journey of the Looyen Family Melbourne, Brisbane
Holland Festival Melbourne March 15 Film Premiere: Dutch Immigration Story As part of the Holland Festival, there will also be screenings of the documentary Westlanders in Australia. The documentary tells the story of the Looyen family,
Dutch names at the National Australia Remembers Freedom Wall Brisbane
The National Australia Remembers Freedom Wall commemorates the “sacrifice of a generation” that have resulted in 50 years of peace in the Pacific since World War Two, and honours the servicemen and servicewomen who died in
The secret and dangerous operations of Australia’s and the Netherlands’ Pacific War flying boat crews
The Pacific War during World War II saw countless daring operations carried out by Allied forces, often in extreme secrecy. Among these, the contributions of Australia’s RAAF Catalina crews and their Dutch counterparts from the
Schouten Island – Tasmania
The Dutch history of Schouten Island Schouten Island, located off the east coast of Tasmania, forms part of the Freycinet Peninsula and holds a significant place in the history of Dutch exploration in the Southern
Joh Oost – a legacy of heritage, adventure, and innovation
Johannes (Joh) Oost (1928–2024), born in the Netherlands in 1928, led an extraordinary life that seamlessly blended his Dutch heritage with the adventurous spirit of an Australian migrant. His story is one of resilience, innovation,
Clog Making in Tasmania
Clogs and Dutch are ideas that belong together, largely due to the success of marketing by the Dutch Tourism industry. A more or less unique product and a more or less unique people – a
Calvin School Tasmania – became a model for Australia
Calvin School- the why and the consequences In the 1950s, education of children was the joint responsibility of the State and the local Municipality. The State provided the buildings, the teachers and the curriculum. The
Little Groningen – Tasmania
This story is about how Little Groningen came to be. The name was coined by the farmer, Geard, who sold the land to the “G7” scouts, van der Laan and Pinkster. (The “G7” was a
Sydney had two Dutch hospitals in the 1940s
Pierre van der Eng Sydney had two Dutch hospitals during 1944-1946. Both were related to the presence in Australia of a growing number of people from colonial Indonesia during 1942-1945. Since March 1942, officials of
Erinnerungen family de Nijs
A family’s journey from persecution to peace In 1939, the Nazi regime upended the life of my grandfather, a tax accountant in Vienna, Austria. He owned a large apartment in the city, but being born
Dutch soldiers commemorates on the Afghan Tarin Kowt Memorial, Corinda, Queensland
The Tarin Kowt Memorial, located in Corinda, Queensland, is a bronze replica of the original memorial wall from Tarin Kowt, Afghanistan. It honors the men and women from various nations who served in Uruzgan Province,
Researching Dutch Australian Family History
Are you interested in your Dutch Australian family history? Did your parents, grandparents, or great-grandparents migrate to Australia from the Netherlands? Or maybe you migrated to Australia from the Netherlands yourself and want to research
Maria Island – Tasmania
Maria Island, situated off the east coast of Tasmania, holds a rich and complex history, particularly tied to Dutch exploration. Its story is interwoven with Indigenous heritage, European exploration, and a brief period as a
Australians at War in Netherlands East Indies – Film Archive
Selected individuals linked to the Netherlands East Indies (NEI) during World War II for which the Archives holds interviews. Click here for the interviews. The Archive is an Australian Government initiative, commissioned through the Department
Almost a Dutch Australia: Dutch plans for the west coast of New Holland in the 1820s
The Dutch plans to establish a settlement on the west coast of New Holland (modern-day Western Australia) in the 1820s were part of broader European colonial interests in the region. Although the Dutch explored the
Aborigines and shipwrecks – the arrival of Australia’s first immigrants
Republished with permission. Chapter two from the book: A Touch of Dutch. For the full pdf click here. See also: First contact between the Dutch and the Aboriginal People
The Diary of Gerard Rhee – one the first Dutch migrants to Australia – 1940
The diary of G Rhee is quite unique because it was written in 1940. Gerard Rhee was one of the first Dutch migrants to Tasmania. There are interesting glimpses in this diary of a young
Dutch migration under the Empire and Allied Ex-Servicemen Scheme (1948-1955)
This migration scheme was an Australian post-World War II initiative aimed at bolstering the nation’s population and workforce by facilitating the migration of ex-servicemen from the British Empire and Allied countries. Recognising the need for
Indo (Eurasian) Communities in Australia
Dutch Indonesian Association – Cairns In April 1995 a small group of Indische mensen’ (people born in Indonesia), such as Rob Elstak, Eric & Rob Marcus, Leo Vandersar, Jan Schmieman and Andreas Flach, came together
Missing millions: Java’s 1944–45 famine in Indonesia’s historiography
Introduction Very few people in Indonesia, Australia and the Netherlands know that during WWII many Indonesians fought on the side of the Allies. And nobody there knows the estimate of 4 million deaths. Because both
Dr Freddie von Schmidt
The new doctor There is a red book. It is one of many books in a series. This one is devoted to the letter ‘S’. There is nothing in it except surnames starting with ‘S’,
Museum Batavialand – Netherlands
Batavialand is a museum in Lelystad, the Netherlands, dedicated to Dutch maritime history, water management, and the reclamation of land from the sea. It highlights the country’s deep relationship with water, showcasing how the Dutch
Jan van Hoboken founder of Wilhelmina D.S.C – now Ringwood FC (1908-1993)
Early Life and Career Jan (John) van Hoboken was born in 1908 in Aalten, Gelderland, Netherlands. He began his career in 1929 when he accepted a position at the Borsumij trading company in the Netherlands
Honouring the Dutch Merchant Navy: A Shared Legacy Between the Netherlands and Australia
Throughout World War II, the Dutch Merchant Navy (Koopvaardij) played a crucial role in the global war effort, especially in the Pacific following the fall of the Dutch East Indies (modern-day Indonesia) to Japanese forces
Gerard van Wezel and Marretje Ida Sonnenberg
Source: National Archives of Australia Gerard van Wezel migrated to Australia from the Netherlands in 1952 under an ex-serviceman assisted passage scheme. In January 1958, he began working as a technical officer with the Snowy
TV Star Sherry Wheeler (Berta van Wheeley)
Source: National Archives of Australia Sherry Wright, originally named Berta Joanna van Wheeley, migrated from the Netherlands to Australia with her family in 1950. Her father, having endured severe starvation during World War II, was
The Wolswinkels’ Adventure – Migration Journey to Australia
Source: National Archives of Australia In February 1957, the Wolswinkel family, including Henk Wolswinkel, the youngest of 13 children, embarked on the Dutch migrant ship Johan van Oldenbarnevelt (JVO) from Amsterdam to Australia. Their meticulous
The Huig Family
Cees and Ina Huig, along with their three children, migrated from the Netherlands to Australia in 1972, settling in Brisbane. Their journey and experiences have been documented by the National Archives of Australia. Cees Huig
The Hooghout Family
Source: National Archives of Australia In 1951, Nieske Besselink traveled from the Netherlands to Ulverstone, Tasmania, before deciding to marry her fiancé, Jan Hoogenhout, wanting to ensure she would feel at home in Australia. Fortunately,
The City of Blacktown Carnival Society “The Jokers”
The following text is from a booklet published by the Federation of Netherlands Societies Ltd. in February 1985. The research for this booklet was done by Mijntje Hage. Like all the other carnival clubs, The Jokers consider
The N.S.W. Klaverjas Federation NSW
The following text is from a booklet published by the Federation of Netherlands Societies Ltd. in February 1985. The research for this booklet was done by Mijntje Hage. This Federation was formed a few years ago to
History of the Netherlands co-operative terminating building society schemes
The following text is from a booklet published by the Federation of Netherlands Societies Ltd. in February 1985. The research for this booklet was done by Mijntje Hage. The difficulties of the ‘first’ assisted immigrants
Author and contributor biographies
Republished with permission. Author and contributor biographies of the book: A Touch of Dutch. For the full pdf of the book click here. Introduction chapters of the book: Touch of Dutch
Tracing your Dutch ancestors in the National Archives of Australia
The National Archives of Australia (NAA) has a very extensive archive in relation to the Netherlands . Their archives only contain documents from government sources. The DACC collects private collections and private stories so the
Our Mob: Shipwrecks survivors and WA Aboriginal Peoples
Republished with permission. Chapter 37 of the book: A Touch of Dutch. For the full pdf of the book click here. Introduction chapters of the book: Touch of Dutch
The photography of Richard Woldendorp
Republished with permission. Chapter 36 of the book: A Touch of Dutch. For the full pdf of the book click here. Introduction chapters of the book: Touch of Dutch See also: Dutch-Australian photographer Richard Woldendorp
Floating: an exhibition of artworks at the Fremantle arts centre by Dutch Australians
Republished with permission. Chapter 35 of the book: A Touch of Dutch. For the full pdf of the book click here. Introduction chapters of the book: Touch of Dutch
The Dutch School ‘De Schakel’
Republished with permission. Chapter 34 of the book: A Touch of Dutch. For the full pdf of the book click here. Introduction chapters of the book: Touch of Dutch
The history of Dutch clubs in Perth – WA 1950s-2016
Republished with permission. Chapter 33 of the book: A Touch of Dutch. For the full pdf of the book click here. Introduction chapters of the book: Touch of Dutch
21st Century Dutch Interests
Republished with permission. Section Five of the book: A Touch of Dutch. For the full pdf of the book click here. Introduction chapters of the book: Touch of Dutch
The Dutch in Business: the high-end of town
Republished with permission. Chapter 31 of the book: A Touch of Dutch. For the full pdf of the book click here. Introduction chapters of the book: Touch of Dutch
The Doorhouse – Wieman Family
Republished with permission. Chapter 30 of the book: A Touch of Dutch. For the full pdf of the book click here. Introduction chapters of the book: Touch of Dutch
The Plug Family Business
Republished with permission. Chapter 29 of the book: A Touch of Dutch. For the full pdf of the book click here. Introduction chapters of the book: Touch of Dutch
The migration experience of the Woerlee Family
Republished with permission. Chapter 28 of the book: A Touch of Dutch. For the full pdf of the book click here. Introduction chapters of the book: Touch of Dutch
Emigration: My story – Peter Rietveld
Republished with permission. Chapter 27 of the book: A Touch of Dutch. For the full pdf of the book click here. Introduction chapters of the book: Touch of Dutch
Book: Touch of Dutch – Mercantile
Republished with permission. Section Four of the book: A Touch of Dutch. For the full pdf of the book click here. Introduction chapters of the book: Touch of Dutch
Between two world : second generation Dutch migrants in Western Australia
Republished with permission. Chapter 25 of the book: A Touch of Dutch. For the full pdf of the book click here. Introduction chapters of the book: Touch of Dutch
Migration Impressions – Reflections – Vermeulen Family
Republished with permission. Chapter 24 of the book: A Touch of Dutch. For the full pdf of the book click here. Introduction chapters of the book: Touch of Dutch
First gathering of all Dutch organisations in Brisbane
As of 16 November 2024, all known Dutch organisations in Brisbane—loosely connected under the Dutchlink Brisbane banner—came together for the first time to strengthen connections and get to know each other better. The event was
Making a Dutch home in Western Australia from the 1950s
Republished with permission. Chapter 23 of the book: A Touch of Dutch. For the full pdf of the book click here. Introduction chapters of the book: Touch of Dutch
Ticket to a new life
Republished with permission. Chapter 22 of the book: A Touch of Dutch. For the full pdf of the book click here. Families Crijns, Coenen, Verveer Introduction chapters of the book: Touch of Dutch
Roller Coaster Migrants
Republished with permission. Chapter 21 of the book: A Touch of Dutch. For the full pdf of the book click here. Families Rietveld, Rijnders Introduction chapters of the book: Touch of Dutch
Dear Homeland, Farewell by Richarda Engles
In this booklet, written in the 1980s, Richarda (‘Richa’) Engles (born 1924 in Rotterdam) shares her life story with her readers. With candour and memory for detail she recounts her youth in The Netherlands and
Double Dutch – the Dutch language in Western Australia
Republished with permission. Chapter 20 of the book: A Touch of Dutch. For the full pdf of the book click here. Introduction chapters of the book: Touch of Dutch
The Free Reformed Community in Western Australia
Republished with permission. Chapter 19 of the book: A Touch of Dutch. For the full pdf of the book click here. Introduction chapters of the book: Touch of Dutch
Boomerang Church Youth Club Perth
Republished with permission. Chapter 18 of the book: A Touch of Dutch. For the full pdf of the book click here. Introduction chapters of the book: Touch of Dutch
The Hervormde Kerk in Perth
Republished with permission. Chapter 17 of the book: A Touch of Dutch. For the full pdf of the book click here. Introduction chapters of the book: Touch of Dutch
Migration- Leaving from the Netherlands
Republished with permission. Chapter 16 of the book: A Touch of Dutch. For the full pdf of the book click here. Introduction chapters of the book: Touch of Dutch
Fremantle: First step to a new future – migration
Republished with permission. Chapter 15 of the book: A Touch of Dutch. For the full pdf of the book click here. Introduction chapters of the book: Touch of Dutch See also: Bonegilla the largest migrant camp
Dutch socialist pioneer links with Dutch literary giants
Republished with permission. Chapter 14 of the book: A Touch of Dutch. For the full pdf of the book click here. Introduction chapters of the book: Touch of Dutch See also: Dutch authors van het Reve
Republished with permission. Chapter 12 of the book: A Touch of Dutch.Including chapter 12: Johanna Bruce – Nee Herklots and family 1850-1917. For the full pdf of the book click here. Introduction chapters of the book:
A Dutch Socialist connection with WA
Republished with permission. Chapter 13 of the book: A Touch of Dutch. For the full pdf of the book click here. Introduction chapters of the book: Touch of Dutch See also: Anna Siebenhaar under government surveillance
Book: Touch of Dutch: Migration
Republished with permission. Section 3 of the book: A Touch of Dutch. For the full pdf of the book click here. Introduction chapters of the book: Touch of Dutch
Through the looking glass: an Australian War Bride writes home
Republished with permission. Chapter 11 of the book: A Touch of Dutch. For the full pdf of the book click here. Introduction chapters of the book: Touch of Dutch
‘These were wild times’: the evacuation of Dutch nationals from the former Netherlands East Indies to Western Australia, 1945-46
Republished with permission. Chapter 10 of the book: A Touch of Dutch. For the full pdf of the book click here. Introduction chapters of the book: Touch of Dutch See also: Evacuees and Refugees from Netherlands
Netherlands East Indies Dutch: experiences of war, occupation, revolution and evacuation, and rehabilitation in Australia 1942-1946
Republished with permission. Chapter 9 of the book: A Touch of Dutch. For the full pdf of the book click here. Introduction chapters of the book: Touch of Dutch
Operation Potschot: Dutch airmen in the defence of Western Australia, 1944
Republished with permission. Chapter 8 of the book: A Touch of Dutch. For the full pdf of the book click here. Introduction chapters of the book: Touch of Dutch See also: No 18 and 120 Squadrons
The remarkable defence : Shell Tanker Ondina
Republished with permission. Chapter 7 of the book: A Touch of Dutch. For the full pdf of the book click here. Introduction chapters of the book: Touch of Dutch See also: Shell’s Ondina tanker played a
The Dutch Turn Up Down Under – WWII
Republished with permission. Chapter 6 of the book: A Touch of Dutch. For the full pdf of the book click here. Introduction chapters of the book: Touch of Dutch
The Diamond Mystery -1942
Republished with permission. Chapter 5 of the book: A Touch of Dutch. For the full pdf of the book click here. Introduction chapters of the book: Touch of Dutch See also: The Lost Dutch Diamonds on
Textile Artist – Aadje Bruce
Born in Amsterdam 11-10-1934, died 5-4-2011 in PerthTextile Artist / Fashion Designer and Mixed Media Artist. Active Period c.1958 – c.2008 Artistic education: Diploma of Art Studies, Perth Technical College (1957), BA Fine Art (Fibre
Anthropological analyses of human skeletal remains associated with the Batavia Mutiny
Republished with permission. Chapter 3 of the book: A Touch of Dutch. For the full pdf of the book click here. Introduction chapters of the book: Touch of Dutch See also: Dirk Drok and the discovery
Aboriginals and Shipwrecks – The arrival of Australia’s first immigrants
Republished with permission. Chapter 2 of the book: A Touch of Dutch. For the full pdf of the book click here. Introduction chapters of the book: Touch of Dutch
Book: Touch of Dutch – Introduction & Contents
Republished with permission. Introduction chapters of the book: A Touch of Dutch. For the full pdf of the book click here. Full index of the book with links to each chapter see below. Section One: Dutch
Proposal to name “Dutch Park” to Honor Dutch-Australian Heritage
The Coopers Plains History Group has put forward a proposal to name the central park at Cornerstone Living in Coopers Plains, Brisbane, “Dutch Park” to celebrate the area’s significant history tied to the post-WWII Dutch
Peter Sitsen: Architect of the Netherlands Indies Civil Administration (NICA)
Peter Sitsen (Bergen op Zoom, November 1, 1885 – Sydney, January 21, 1945) , a Dutch architect and civil administrator, played a pivotal role in establishing the Netherlands Indies Civil Administration (NICA) in Brisbane during World
The Netherlands Indies Civil Administration (NICA) WWII – Established in Brisbane
During World War II, as the Japanese occupation swept through the Dutch East Indies (modern-day Indonesia), the Netherlands government-in-exile faced a daunting challenge: how to maintain control and provide administrative continuity in the occupied territory.
Inventaris Digitale collectie Project ‘Afscheid van Indië’
Inventory Digital Collection Project ‘Farewell to the Indies’
From the Pitch to Perseverance: The Remarkable Journey of Bill Westerveld
Bill Westerveld’s life story is a testament to his enduring passion for football and resilience in the face of adversity. His journey in the sport took him across continents, representing his homeland at the youth
The Lost Dutch Diamonds on Carnot Beach, Western Australia. New: video ABC 7:30 Report 12-11-2024
On the eve of the Netherlands East Indies’ capitulation, a series of evacuation flights brought Dutch citizens to the safety of Australia, with Broome emerging as a key evacuation hub. Among the heroic pilots, Dutch-Russian
Abel Tasman Stories
Special Tasman’s Briefcase to mark the 300th anniversary of the death of Abel Tasman The briefcase was made from black leather, embossed with the Tasmanian coat of arms. Inside there were several compartments. The main
Royal Visit to Tasmania
This article was written during the 2006 Dutch royal visit to Australia. It was weeks of anticipation for the Dutch Community in Tasmania, as they received preliminary invitations and two general invitations in the Saturday
The Rook family: A Tasmanian migration story
By Meinard Karel Rook – Compiled in 2005 ArrivalWe arrived in Australia in August 1950, after a 6 week voyage from Holland on the Sibijaek. Our first land fall was in Fremantle, then on to
Reg Doedens: A life of faith, resilience, and community- Tasmania
The article below is a brief resume of the life of Reg Doedens. It is structured on the ghosted auto-biography prepared by Anne Rand, with additional notes by the reviewer, (a neighbour, cadet, employee, hardware
Peter Herweynen – From Canadian chocolate to Antarctic builder
When he was 18 years old, Jan van Herweynen was asked by his father to travel to Tasmania, purchase a piece of land and begin building a house. Jan was accompanied by his cousin Bob
Card Club – Ons Genoegen Tasmania
Saturday the 21st of April was the day the Klaverjas Club “Ons Genoegen” celebrated their 50th anniversary. The celebrations started in the morning at the Lenah Valley RSL clubrooms. Players had come together from Launceston
Martina van Munster nee Kruiff migration to Tasmania
Martina’s early memories were fixed in World War II. Her family lived in Den Helder, a natural harbour on the tip of North Holland. The harbour was also a naval base, and the object of
The van de Laan’s wedding anniversary in Tasmania
The 25th wedding anniversary of Eric and Toni van der Laan was celebrated in 1954.It was a major event in the Dutch migrant community in Kingston, Tasmania, fondly remembered 64 years later by those still alive.In
George Huizing Honorary Consul Tasmania
George Huizing 8/9/1938 – 27/12/2016 A newspaper clipping on my desk reminds of the last time I saw George. The clipping concerns a lost property title, in the parish of Lorainah. Property belonging to JKF
Eulogy Bart Jan Folkerts – 1999
We praise God for the life and witness ofBart Jan Folkerts18 September 1911 to 24 October 1999 An Association [Christian Parent-Controlled Schools] Founder and Gold Member“Now with the Lord he loved and served … a
Elly Schuth: from bride to crafty great Tasmanian grandmother
7 Mar 1926 – 10Jul 2017 Elly with her brothers Reg and Max In May 1950, a group of 10 men, and their wives, met in the residence of Eerke van der Laan in the
Dutch-Tasmania books
Shaping Kingston – The story of God’s children in Kingston especially focussing on the Reformed Church – written by Historian Kees Wierenga – $40 plus postage Copies of this book are held by the State
Dutch settlers in Ulverstone, Tasmania
Fair Dinkum Dutch Courage Compiled by Elizabeth Nickols (27 families) Excerpts (and some additional notation by Kees Wierenga)Brandsema, Wilko (Bill) and Hendrikje (Hennie) nee Wind(pp.1 – 9, 20 photos) Wilko was born in 1910 in
Dutch migrants in Penguin, Tasmania
Below is a short summary by Kees Wierenga of the book by Liz Nickols. Names are in alpha order. Copies of the book are available from liz.nickols@gmail.com. Details noted below, especially regarding who is still
Tasmanian Architect Dirk Bolt
In October 1951 Dirk Bolt migrated from his native Groningen, the Netherlands, to Kingston, Tasmania, Australia, where he married Guusje (Kusha) van der Laan in January 1953. In 1964 they moved to Canberra. From
Timeline Abel Tasman 1642
The Dutch seafarer, Abel Tasman, is recognised as the first European to land, in December 1642, on the island that now bears his name. In the last 50 to 60 years, thousands of Dutch settlers
Dutch-Australian Society ‘Abel Tasman” and the tulip festival
BLUE GUM, TULIP & SPRING FESTIVALS From the newsletter of the DAS (Dutch-Australian Society), the Tasman Telegraphs, I have noted the following:[reporting of events the DAS usually lacked pertinent details, as if these facts were
Charlie Rook’s diary of his National Service 1968/69
The journal below is based on the diary Charlie kept through his National Service days. It was later edited by him, and passed to this editor for inclusion in the record of achievements of Dutch
Bram and Riet Vonk – From Holland to Hobart: A journey of resilience and love
Bram and I decided to emigrate to Australia, the land of milk and honey (not always) in November 1959. In February 1960 we got married, just after my twenty first birthday, and a few weeks
Adriana Taylor – From Dutch schoolgirl to servant of the Tasmanian people
Teacher, community volunteer, alderman, Lord Mayor, Legislative Councillor. It is normal for the eldest son to inherit the farm. This has been true over the centuries, and in many places in the world. Jos (Adrianus
Dutch Tasmanian Connection
Due to changing times and ageing volunteers, and lack of interest amongst the next generation, the Dutch-Australian Society ‘Abel Tasman” (DAS) faded away in the years 2012 – 2015. The strength and commitment to be
Dutch Identity and Assimilation in Australia: an interpretative approach (thesis)
A thesis submitted for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy of the Australian National University by Wendy Walker-Birckhead – July, 1988 Abstract This ethnographic study examines Dutch identity and assimilation in Australia. Historically, Dutch migrants
Reports on Australia Dutch Heritage Days – 2012
In 2012, Australia Dutch Heritage Conferences were held in Canberra, Fremantle and The Hague with the support of the Netherlands Ambassador to Australia Willem Andreas . See also: Conference Papers and Keynote addresses by researchers Migrant
Handkerchief of the Dutch ‘Comfort’ Women WWII
50 years of silence ‘How can you tell your daughters, you know? I mean, the shame, the shame was still so great. I knew I had to tell them but I couldn’t tell them face
Abraham Crijnssen – Dutch minesweeper in the service of the Australian Navy (WWII)
The ship was built during the 1930s, she was based in the Netherlands East Indies when Japan attacked at the end of 1941. After the Japanese invasion the ship left for Australia. For its escape the ship was painted in camouflage colours and the ship was disguised as a tropical island with the help of nets, branches, and other greenery. It arrived in Geraldton. Here the ship served as a patrol vessel until 16 August 1942. After that the ship was in service with the Australian Navy.
Robert Zindler migrated to Western Australia
This is information returned by Robert based on the questionnaire for the associated research projects titled: ‘Footsteps of the Dutch in Australia’; ‘Dutch Contact and Resettlement in Western Australia’; ‘The Evacuation Movement out of the
RAAF Members on Netherlands East Indies Aircraft + Archival documents
During World War II, members of the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) were involved in a variety of operations, including flying missions on aircraft belonging to the Netherlands East Indies (NEI) Air Force. This cooperation
Cornelis Bijvoet, shipping engineer & architect of Dutch emigration ships
This article was created with the permission of, and with information made available by, Mr. Bijvoet’s grandchildren, Dr. Shanti Wong and Mr. Mark Wardle. Cornelis Bijvoet (1890–1964) was a Dutch shipping engineer who served his
B-25 bombers ordered by the Dutch ended up with USAAF
Urgent need to replace aging planes – 162 new planes ordered The Netherlands nor NEI and nor Australia for that matter were well prepared for war. In NEI the ML-KNIL were using the no longer
ML-KNIL Dakota crashed in Moreton Bay – 1947
On 26 February, a ML-KNIL Douglas Dakota caught fire and crashed into the ocean about 23 minutes into a test flight from Archerfield, killing all six people – three Dutch servicemen and three Australian crew
Cora Baldock Emeritus Professor– Murdoch University, Western Australia
Cora Baldock was born on 16 December 1935 in Rotterdam as Corrie Vellekoop, the youngest of three children. Her father, Cornelis Vellekoop, was also born in Rotterdam and worked for the Norwegian Consulate there. His
Long-distance migrants and family support: a Dutch case study
The paper discusses what kind of mutual support and care-giving occurs between Dutch migrants residing in Australia and their parents ‘back home’ in the Netherlands. Specific case study examples are used to document the effect
The Devil’s Grin – Japanese imprisonment of Dutch and Australian People
The book The Devil’s Grin by Toni Harting provides an in-depth exploration of the Japanese military’s imprisonment of Dutch civilians in the Dutch East Indies during the Pacific War (1941-1945). Harting offers a detailed account
Toni de Wolfe evacuated from NEI and became a driver for General MacArthur in Brisbane
The following story was told by Les Bryant and recorded in World War II Stories from Brisbane’s South West My aunt was one of MacArthur’s drivers in Brisbane, but her story started overseas. She actually
Eugenie Blackney survived the Japanese camps
I have lived in Forest Lake, Brisbane for years. But during World War 11,-I was in Java. When the Japanese invaded, the Dutch East Indies government escaped to Australia and ended up at Wacol, Brisbane.
Presentation Dr Nonja Peters: Four M’s of Dutch-Australian history (16/10/2024)
At a recent DACC meeting Dr. Nonja Peters explored the rich maritime, World War II military, post-war migration, and trade (mercantile) heritage—collectively referred to as the “Four Ms”—that connects the Netherlands and Australia. This historical
The Gemma Constantiniana and the Batavia shipwreck
The Gemma Constantiniana is a remarkable artifact – only one of three of the Roman period – that weaves together the stories of ancient Rome, Dutch maritime history, and European royalty. This 4th-century CE sardonyx
Letters from emigrant Jan de Vries – Tasmania 1949
Introduction The following are 29 letters, written by one of the first Dutch migrants to Tasmania, who settled in Penguin in 1949. He composed these letters as reports for his cohort still in the Netherlands,
What’s for dinner for Dutch emigrants
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Hollands Glorie Dutch Club in the Sydney region
The following text is from a booklet published by the Federation of Netherlands Societies Ltd. in February 1985. The research for this booklet was done by Mijntje Hage. We don’t have any further information on this club. The
Blue Mountains Dutch Club
The following text is from a booklet published by the Federation of Netherlands Societies Ltd. in February 1985. The research for this booklet was done by Mijntje Hage. It is the only info we have on this
Dutch-Australian sculptor Antone Bruinsma
Antone Bruinsma, an Australian-based sculptor, boasts over 35 years of professional experience in his craft. Having relocated to Australia from Amsterdam, Holland, with his family at the age of 12, his artistic journey began by
DACC – Primary Research Projects
The following breakdown provides a comprehensive overview of completed and ongoing research projects in the field of DACC. Allies in a Bind: Australia and the Netherlands East Indies in the Second World War Australia Explained:
Hawkesbury and district Dutch Australian Society
The following text is from a booklet published by the Federation of Netherlands Societies Ltd. in February 1985. The research for this booklet was done by Mijntje Hage. It is the only info we have on this
Ferdinand Jacobus Domela Nieuwenhuis Jr
Ferdinand Jacobus Domela Nieuwenhuis Jr., born on February 12, 1871, in Harlingen, Friesland, was the son of Ferdinand Domela Nieuwenhuis and Johanna Lulofs. His father, Ferdinand Domela Nieuwenhuis, was a prominent socialist figure in the
Michaël “Sjel” de Bruyckere: A Football Journey from the Netherlands to Australia
Michaël “Sjel” (Mike) de Bruyckere, born in Kaatsheuvel, the Netherlands, on 6 February 1928, was a remarkable Dutch and Australian footballer whose legacy extended beyond the pitch. Early Years and Dutch Success. De Bruyckere commenced
Dutch company Van Leer produced packaging materials in Australia’s capital cities
By: Pierre van der Eng Van Leer was a Dutch company producing metal and later also plastic drums and pails for packaging and storage. Founded by Bernard van Leer, it started operations in Amsterdam in
WWII – The Tragic Fate of HMAS Armidale includes many Dutch losses. New: Medic Roelof Frank GP in Oss
In 1938, amidst escalating tensions of war, the Australian Commonwealth Naval Board recognised the necessity for a versatile ‘local defence vessel’ capable of anti-submarine and mine-warfare duties. This need birthed the concept of the HMAS
De Wereldschool
The Wereldschool (‘world school’) was founded over 75 years ago and aims to help families that want to maintain their children’s language or education levels. In 1936 Philipp Abraham Kohnstamm founded the Institute for Individual
Fortuna 60 SC – The Orangemen – Morwell Victoria
Morwell in the Latrobe Valley saw a large influx of Dutch emigrants in the 1950s. In 1954 12% of the population was Dutch this increased to 15% by 1961. Dutch Clubs followed soon as it
First Dutch contacts in Australia – North coast of Australia 1636 to 1705
[Cape Londonderry to Norman River] Gulf of Carpentaria and Arnhem Land The coast of Arnhem Land was mapped by the Dutch in the “Arnhem” skippered at that stage by Willem van Coolsteerdt in 1623 but
The Drama of Broome 3-3-1942 – New doco added April 2024
On 3 March 1942 Japanese Zero bombers arrived and within 15 minutes bombed 23 Alied aircrafts that were either laying in the Roebuck bay or which were parked on the aerodrome. Approx half of them were NEI airplanes, between 35 and 40 Dutch people were killed in the raid and some 60+ were badly injured.
Philips – historic ephemera
Philips factory in Newcastle produced almost all Australia’s electric lamps for 70 years Frans Leddy reorganised Philips Australasia Turning Adversity into Opportunity: Philips in Australia, 1945-1980 European Integration and Australian Manufacturing Industry History of the
SPORT CLUB HOLLAND INC. – Gambier Centrals Soccer Club
Founded in August 1962, the club was known as “Sports Club Holland” until 1982-83, when a name change led to the modern Gambier Centrals being born. In 2003 the club finally put down roots on
Remembering Tasmanian Football Legend Adrian Harmsen
Adrian (Aad) Harmsen was born in Leiden in 1925. From a young school age he played football and became a key player in the local football club. During WWII he became involved resistance work and
WWII Gould Airfield used by the Dutch for maintenance
During World War II, Gould Airfield, also known as Gould Strip, was an important airfield located in the Northern Territory of Australia. It played a significant role in the defence and strategic operations of the
The end of WWII. Liberation of Borneo by Australian troops. Bersiap killings on Java.
The 15th day of August 1945 will go down in history as the day of the end of the Second World War. On that day, Japan capitulated and the President of the United States announced
S.C. Windmills – Dutch football club Perth
The Windmills Soccer Club, founded in 1950 by Dutch immigrants led by Hank Beumer, has a rich history in Western Australian soccer. Originally established as a recreational outlet for the local Dutch community, the club
Wens de Jong – football lengend of Wagga Wagga
Wens de Jong was born in 1938 in Oude Wetering (Zuid Holland). At the age of 18, he embarked on a journey to Melbourne in 1956 alongside his parents John and Regina, along with their
The Clogs ( Klompen) Dutch football Club in Wagga Wagga
In the 1950s, a wave of Dutch migration reached Wagga Wagga, leaving its mark on the Riverina town’s sporting landscape with the formation of the Clogs (Klompen) football club. This article draws upon rich archival
Cees van der Zalm (1901-1957) Dutch National Footballer and Australian Coach
Cees van der Zalm was a Dutch footballer born on September 30, 1901, in Loosduinen, The Hague. He had a notable career with the Netherlands National Football team (Oranje), playing three matches between 1927 and
The strategic position of Merauke during WWII
An often used trivia question in the Netherlands is, what part of the Netherlands remained unoccupied during WWII. The answer is Southwest Dutch New Guinea, with Merauke as its capital When General MacArthur initiated an
Dutch spy woman involved in the decision to start the NSW penal settlement in 1788?
Margaretha Wolters, also known as Marguerite Wolters, was an intriguing figure in 18th-century espionage. Her clandestine activities appear to have played a pivotal role in shaping British decisions during that era. Amazingly she appeared to have
Refugee family van der Wallen recuperation at Camp Columbia, Brisbane
So far, we have not been able to get stories from people that were allowed to come to Australian for recuperation after their stay in the Japanese Camps in the Netherlands East Indies (NEI) during
Conference Papers and Keynote addresses by researchers
The following overview has been compiled by Dr. Nonja Peters Papers on Dutch culture and heritage by Nonja Peters 2016: Opening and closing/summing up speeches at the NIAS LORENZ International Workshop on Digital Humanities –
Adrian Strik, Child Migrant, Backpacker Grand Tour – Love Story
Born: Zeist, Netherlands on 9 March 1946. Adrian is the oldest child in a family of seven children. Migration: The family left for Melbourne, but disembarked in Fremantle, Western Australia (WA) on October 12, 1954. Adrian’s parent’s hoped
First Dutch contacts in Australia – West coast of Australia 1629 to 1699
[Cape Leeuwin to North West Cape] Central and Upper West Coast 1629 – 1697 The Voyage of the Batavia Journal – Francisco Pelsaert Recording Navigator: F Pelsaert 1629“The Journals of Francisco Pelsaert” in H Drake-Brockman
Dutch Community Radio Western Australia
The history of Dutch Community Radio in Western Australia is rich with dedication and passion from its volunteers. It began nearly 50 years ago with reel-to-reel tapes and has evolved significantly since then. Initially established
Plan to settle 5000 Dutch soldiers in Australian 1949
MORE than 5000 Dutch soldiers will migrate to Australia soon after demobilization in Java. Their entry will be under a mutual agreement between the two countries, to be concluded soon. It is understood that the
Dutch WWI Diggers decorated in the Australian Imperial Force
During the First World War, the Netherlands remained neutral. Yet there are several hundreds Dutchmen who served in foreign armies, and some of them have received gallantry awards. This article – in Dutch – is
A Dutch digger in World War I – Jan Zwolsman
This is an abstract from the article: A Dutch digger in World War I – Jan Zwolsman. By Bas de Groot January, 2022 Jan Zwolsman’s life story is a testament to resilience and activism, from
A Visual Exploration of Dutch and Eurasian Experiences in Indonesia Amidst Turbulent Times
Abstract of a review titled: Review: Landscape of the soul by Ron Witton An exhibition titled “Landscape of the Soul,” is shedding light on the often-overlooked experiences of European Dutch and Eurasian individuals in Indonesia
Novel ‘With love, Gerard’ – Monique McCallum
For Gerard and Hendrika, it is love at first sight in a dance hall in Amsterdam in 1953. The war years are thankfully behind them and joy is returning to the Earth. But for Gerard,
Dutch lessons in Perth, Australia
Unlike in the Netherlands, the school year in Australia runs from January to December. LanguageOne offers Dutch language and culture education for Dutch-speaking children, Dutch for beginners and special Dutch Kindy groups for toddlers in
Book: Coming to Australia – Pieter Koster
This autobiographical account of the author’s first ten years is based on his mother’s letters written in Australia and sent to relatives in Holland. Tells of the family’s migration to Australia in 1952, their time
Theo Paap: A Dutch-Australian Football Legend
Theo Paap’s journey from Amsterdam to Perth in 1956 marked the beginning of a remarkable career in Australian football. Born in Amsterdam in 1943, Paap quickly immersed himself in the local Dutch football scene, joining
John Berends: A Life of Innovation and Service in Australia’s Agricultural Landscape
John (Jan) Berends was born in 1937, in a village near Zwolle, where he attended high School (HBS – B). After successfully completing his secondary schooling, he was conscripted into National Service, although not quite
We were the ones that integrated’:Dutch post-war migrant children in Australia
A research on the change in transnational ties of Dutch post-war migrant children in Australia On November 1, 2018 Anne Brehler defended her Master thesis ‘We were the ones that integrated’: Dutch post-war migrant children
The preservation and digitalisation of Dutch- Australian Migrant Registration Cards
The preservation and digitalisation of Dutch- Australian Migrant Registration Cards Over the decades, the Netherlands Embassy and Consulates in Australia maintained a card system documenting migrants from the Netherlands. The system contains over 55,000 cards,
‘Albury rescue’ repeated during WWII in the Netherlands East Indies
The Dutch and their WWII Allies were totally unprepared for the rapid advances of the Japanese army. Nobody had expected that Singapore would fall within 10 days, and in no time, they invaded the Netherlands
First Dutch contacts in Australia
South coast of Australia to 1772 and beyond Although part of the south coast, from Cape Leeuwin to around Fowlers Bay, was first mapped in 1627, there are no documented accounts of any visits until
Collaboration with Dutch organisations in Australia
A revitalised Dutch Australian Cultural Centre (DACC) operates digitally Australia-wide and even internationally. The DACC was established in 1983 to oversee the preservation of Dutch heritage in Australia, including maritime history, migration, businesses, and the
Socceroo Mike Petersen: A Legacy of Dutch Heritage and Football Mastery
Mike Petersen, born of a Dutch father and an Australian mother on May 6, 1965, in Melbourne, emerged as a stalwart midfielder whose illustrious career spanned continents and left an indelible mark on Australian football.
Exhibition and presentation – Brisbane – The heritage shared between the Netherlands and Australia (1606 – 2016)
Post-event reflections (added 6 March 2024) The lecture and exhibition by Dr. Nonja Peters was well-attended by members of the DACC and the Dutch Club NAQ, as well as by interested members of the public.
Camp Columbia and the Indonesian story
Camp Columbia in Brisbane was set up by the Americans in 1942 as a staging camp for the liberation of the Southwest Pacific. When the Americans moved on to Hollandia in Dutch New Guinea in
The DACC Research Team
We proudly present our DACC Research Team. The team is involved in: The DACC Research Team includes.:
English sailor receives Netherlands Bronze Cross
During the Second World War, English sailor Henry Alfred Brooklyn (born 27 July 1922 in Cambridge, England; sometimes known as Harry) was decorated with the Netherlands Bronze Cross. This story was brought to our attention
Migrant (R)e-collections- Proposal for a workshop (historic)
All over the world migrants have left multiple traces, deep traces that are indispensable forthe fostering of heritage communities and for research in the humanities and social sciences.Yet the growing societal demand for cultural services
Abel Tasman Landing Site – Tasmania 1642
The Tasman expedition left Batavia (Netherlands East Indies, now Jakarta, Indonesia) on 14th August 1642 with two vessels, the Heemskerk with a 60-man crew and the Zeehaan with 50 men on board. They first called
Pauleen Badke – a young woman’s wartime experience at Camp Columbia’s Officer Candidate School
Pauleen Lillian Badke was born at Booval in Ipswich in 1925. Her father’s name was ‘Wilhelm’ but he was known to everyone as ‘Bill’ – her mother’s name was Lillian. She had one brother, Keith.
First Dutch contacts in Australia – Tasmania 1642 to 1772
Blackman Bay and East Coast of Tasmania 1642 Tasman’s Voyage of 1642 Journal – Abel Tasman Tasman, A J 1898Abel Janszoon Tasman’s Journal, J E Heeres (comp. and trans.),Amsterdam: Frederick Muller. p.15 [Report of Pilot-Major
Heineken beer has been on tap in Australia since 1884
Pierre van der Eng It may appear that Dutch multinational beer brewer Heineken has long tried to carry the proverbial coal to Newcastle, because its beer has been on sale in Australia since 1884. In
Orange Soccer Club lives on as Sturt Lions in Adelaide
The name of the current Sturt Lions Soccer Club shows the Dutch heritage of the club, the club still plays in orange and has the Dutch Lion in its logo. The Orange Soccer Club was
Victory Ships (SS Groote Beer, Zuiderkruis and Waterman)
The Victory ship was a class of cargo ship produced in large numbers by North American shipyards during World War II to replace losses caused by German submarines. They were a more modern design compared
Rene Lubbers – story of an emigrant
I was born in Heerlen and my family emigrated to Australia, (Brisbane) in 1956 when I was 3 years old. My parents didn’t speak English but learned quickly in order to fit in. Upon arriving
Dirk Drok and the discovery of the Batavia
Dirk Drok (Dalfsen, Netherlands 1915–1988), Perth) and his wife Kitty Isabella Theodora Uitenhage de Mist-Barkey (Java 1921–2001 Perth) lived in Java, Netherlands East Indies NEI (now Indonesia). After the Japanese had occupied the NEI, Dirk
Milk and Honey – but no Gold
By Dr. Nonja Peters Milk and Honey – but no Gold is the story of those who left behind their country of birth, and everyone and everything they knew, to become part of Australia’s mass migration
‘Inpakken en wegwezen – emigratie van Nederlanders naar Australië’
Hieronder is het Initiatiefrapport (gedateerd: 17 december 2004) van de tentoonstelling met de werktitel: ‘Inpakken en wegwezen – emigratie van Nederlanders naar Australië’ . Deze exposities was georganiseerd in het kader van het evenement ‘1606
Javanese from New Caledonia, brought to Casino by the Dutch in 1944.
At the end of the 19th Century, the French government looked around for labour for New Caledonia. Workers were needed on the coffee plantations and also servants were sought after. New Caledonia became home to
The Duyfken – Duyfken Replica 25 anniversary
The first documented and undisputed European sighting of and landing in Australia was in late February 1606, by the Dutch navigator Willem Janszoon aboard the Duyfken. Janszoon charted some 300 kms of the northern parts
Philips factory in Newcastle produced almost all Australia’s electric lamps for 70 years
Pierre van der Eng Dutch firm NV Philips Gloeilampenfabrieken exported its incandescent lamps to agents in Australia since 1912. Its lamp sales increased quickly during World War I, when Australian imports form the UK dwindled.
Early nineteenth century English/Dutch rivalry in Eastern Indonesia and Australia
This article is about the Dutch seizure of part of New Guinea in 1828. The English activities in Northern Australia played an important role in this. The author of the article is Jeroen Overweel. He
SS Bantam – First loss of Dutch Merchant Ship in Pacific War.
The SS Bantam (3322 gross weight, built in 1930 ) was one of the original twenty-one KPM vessels that took refuge in Australian ports after the fall of Java that Dutch officials requested be put
Ed & Wilhelmina Van Den Enden – Tasmania
Peter McInnes provided information on his Dutch heritage through Ed & Wilhelmina Van Den Enden whom immigrated from Holland after WWII to Tasmania & retiring in Ulverstone. My grandparents were active within the Dutch community
Navy Cruiser Hr. Ms. Tromp operating from Australia during WWII
When the Hr. Ms. Tromp, a Tromp-class cruiser, was built between 1936 and 1938, it was the most modern ship in its class. The cruiser’s involvement in the search for HMAS Sydney, following its battle
WWII Pilot Guus Hagers, Lienke and the Forgotten Story
One of the greatest pilots of the 18 Netherlands East Indies Squadron RAAF was Gerson (Guus) Hagers. In February 1942 he was part of the group tasked with receiving newly acquired B 25 bombers from
Rubens Family and Rubsons – Dutch Food Wholesalers in Melbourne
Ruben (Ruud) Rubens Ruben was born in Amsterdam on 3 September 1917 and died in Melbourne on 7 November 1993. After his highschool (MULO) he became a bicycle dealer and sales representative. He loved sailing
2024 Holland Festival – Melbourne – Going strong since 1974
The Holland Festival was held in Melbourne each year for 40 years until 2014. After a three years hiatus, the Festival returned in 2017, 2019, 2020, 2023 and now in 2024. It is managed by
First Dutch contacts in Australia – Cape York and Torres Strait 1606 to 1643
RELATING TO: The Voyage of the Duyfken – Willem Janszoon (Master) and Jan Lodewijkszoon van Rosingeyn (Supercargo) , West Cape York Peninsula, Queensland, 1606. Documentary Sources other than original Journals Recording Navigator: J Carstenszoon 1623, taken from:“Summary abstract
Milly Rubens Schelvis, surviving WWII concentration camps in Europe
Milly Schelvis was born in Amsterdam 11th September 1919. She had a normal, loving childhood although that is set in the background of Holland in the 1920’s and 30’s. They lived in the poor parts
Netherlands New Guinea Papua Battalion trained in Australia.
Dutch New Guinea The Moluccan policeman (only known as M.E.) operated in New Guinea from 1935 to April-May 1942, first in Fakfak and then in Babo. On the day of the capitulation of the KNIL
The Dutch Houses of Coopers Plains – Six houses listed for heritage
Sign petition to safe last of the Dutch Houses in Coopers Plain, Brisbane
Annita van Iersel former spouse of PM Paul Keating
Anna Johanna Maria van Iersel born on October 5, 1948, is an accomplished Dutch-born Australian artist and the former spouse of Paul Keating, the ex-Prime Minister of Australia. She held the name Annita Keating from
Marianne Pietersen interviews herself and others in Brisbane
I’ve been doing interviews of Dutch migrants for the Dutch Courier newspaper since a couple of years, and prior to that I wrote many articles about events in my retirement village, or at the Dutch
Dutch immigrant ship S.S. De Waterman
The SS Waterman, initially constructed as the enlarged Victory troopship SS La Grande Victory (VC2-S-AP3), holds a notable place in maritime history. Post-World War II, the State of the Netherlands procured three ships from the
Links to declassified WWII Australian Documents re the Netherlands East Indies
Researched by Ruby Todorovski, researcher at the University of Queensland. Source: National Archives of Australia. Netherlands East Indies Commission for Australia and New Zealand Netherlands East Indies Government-in-Exile in Australia (1944-1946) Netherlands Forces in Australia
Netherlands Forces in Australia WWII
Declassified documents from the National Archives of Australia, researched by Ruby Todorovski, University of Queensland Links to other declassified WWII Australian Documents re the Netherlands East Indies Military Command After the surrender of the Dutch
Migration and Repatriation issues after the liberation of NEI
This file, researched by Ruby Todorovski researcher at the University of Queensland includes documents regarding people who wanted to migrate to Australia after the war and issues regarding the repatriation of service people. See also:
Various WWII Diplomatic Australian documents
All files below were researched by Ruby Todorovski, researcher University of Queensland Netherlands East Indies, Transfer of Government Officials to Australia – 1942 7th March 1942, Dr van Mook, van Oyen and van Plas arrived
Arend and Catherina Brugman – Righteous Among the Nations
On 30 August 2023 Arend Reinirus and Catherina Berendina Brugman-Harmes were posthumous awarded the title: Righteous Among the Nations by Mr Chris Cantor the Deputy Chief of Mission of the Embassy of Israel in Australia.
South coast of Australia to 1772 and beyond
Although part of the south coast, from Cape Leeuwin to around Fowlers Bay, was first mapped in 1627, there are no documented accounts of any visits until Vancouver entered King Georges Sound on 29 September
Discussion on Dutch influence on the Nhanda language.
Nhanda is an Aboriginal language of Western Australia, once spoken along the coastal strip from possibly as far south as Hill River north through to Champion Bay and the mouth of the Murchison, up to
The role of Australia in Indonesia’s independence. Declassified secret docs from the Australian Government.
The declassified original secret and top secret documents are in the pdf file at the end of this article. Change of support Australia promptly and unconditionally welcomed the Dutch after the fall of the Netherlands
Peter Grullemans – Indonesia Diary
Peter is a multi-faceted individual with a diverse educational and professional background. Born in Singapore to Dutch parents, he has pursued a wide range of interests and affiliations throughout his life. He holds a Bachelor
First Dutch contacts in Australia – Lower west coast – cape Leeuwin to Swan river 1658 – 1697
Elburgh 1658 Documentary Source other than original Journals “Letter of the Governor-General and Council to the Managers of the VOC December 14, 1658” in J E Heeres 1899The Part Borne by the Dutch in the
WWII Camp Victory Casino
After the Japanese invasion of Indonesia in 1942, the Dutch fled to Australia taking with them Indonesian soldiers, sailors, government officials and more. The Dutch Government made a deal with the Australian Government which gave
VOC vessel names: what naming patterns reveal about the name-givers’ mindsets
By: Jan Tent Studies of proper names have revealed naming patterns which may provide insights into the attitudes and values of the contemporaneous name bestowers. This essay analyses the names conferred upon thevessels of the
Merdeka Down Under? Indonesian Civilians and Military Personnel in Australia(1942–1949)
This thesis from Dr. Judith Mirjam Rozeboom examines the lives and treatment of the Netherlands East Indies (NEI) people who resided in Australia during WWII and their return to their home country after the war.
Were the Dutch Australia’s first settlers?
By Tony Thomas Of all the accounts of the earliest Dutch arrivals in Australia, the wreck of the Concordia seems the strangest. A “great vessel” of 900 tonnes with 130 on board, it departed Java
Petronella Jacoba Wensing OAM
Petronella Wensing (1924-2023) was a Dutch migrant to Australia who passed away in 2023. Below is an obituary written by her son Ed (posted with permission). A short story about Petronella was published in The
Dutch – Australian Trivia
A basic Australian history questionnaire Noel Jackling The term ‘Australia’ is used in a broad sense to include its earlier names. 1. Who was the first known European skipper to reach Australia? What was the
Charles Lambert Betz – The economic integration of Dutch migrants in Australia
Born: 3 June 1930 (Limburg, The Netherlands)Died: 12 January 2018 (Canberra) Charles was a demographer and public servant who served in Papua New Guinea (1967-72) and Australia thereafter.He was a proud and active member of
SS Groote Beer – From Troop Transport to Emigrant Ship
The SS Groote Beer, originally built as the SS Costa Rica Victory, emerged as a significant vessel post-World War II. Constructed as an enlarged Victory troopship under the US War Shipping Administration, the ship was
Dirk Bodemeijer – Captain Technical Office 120 Squadron 1944/45
This is a personal CV written by Dirk Bodemeijer, while he was living in the USA after WWII. Dirk was briefly part of the 120 Squadron that operated out of Bundaberg and Dutch New Guinea.
Coosje Ayal – guerrilla fighter studied nursing in Brisbane
Coosje Ayal, born in 1926 in the Moluccas, Western New Guinea, became a notable figure for her resistance efforts during World War II. Adopted by her aunt and uncle, who was a civil servant of
More than 150 Dutch companies established subsidiary operations in Australia
By: Pierre van der Eng Several Dutch companies have operations in Australia today. The members of the Netherlands Chamber of Commerce in Melbourne and Dutchlink in Sydney include Dutch mastheads like Rabobank, Randstad, ING, Heineken
Van Diemen’s Land named after Antonio van Diemen Governor of the Netherlands East Indies.
Anthony van Diemen was the Governor of the Netherlands East Indies during the time of the exploration of Abel Tasman. Tasmania was first known as Van Diemen’s Land, the name given to the island by
Maetsuyker island Tasmania
Maatsuyker Island is named after Joan Maetsuycker, the The Dutch Governor of Zeylan (present-day Sri Lanka) during the Dutch period in Ceylon and later the Governor-General of the Netherlands East Indies from 1653 to 1678.
Dutch Australians at a Glance (DAAAG)
Introduction DAAAG was created to be an accessible, easy to navigate, multimedia internet service dedicated to the sustainable digital preservation of Dutch Australians’ cultural heritage – for use by scholars, researchers, bureaucrats, journalists, Dutch individuals
Herman Diederik Huyer Managing Director Philips Australia
Dutch businessman Herman Diederik Huyer, who settled in Australia in 1969. Huyer was born in the Netherlands in 1920, and after World War II worked for the Dutch multinational company, the Philips Group. He held
Australian Descendants of the VOC
In 2017 the Museum of Geraldton held an exhibition titled “Descendants of the VOC: Portraits and Histories”. Curated by Curtin University historian Dr Nonja Peters, the exhibition delved into the impact of the Netherlands East
Book: The UnDutchables
“The UnDutchables: An Observation of the Netherlands, Its Culture, and Its Inhabitants” is a humorous and irreverent exploration of Dutch life and society co-authored by Colin White and Laurie Boucke. First published in 1989, the
Interview: The wanderings of Nies Lankamp
Different from most Dutch migrants, Nies Lankamp was not born in the Netherlands. She was born in Teluk Bayur in North Eastern Borneo as Nies Landman. Her father, Gerard Landman, worked there as machinist on
Mauritz Kokkelink: A heroic tale of resistance and endurance.
For his extraordinary courage and perseverance, Kokkelink was knighted at Camp Columbia in Brisbane on April 12, 1945. His commendation highlighted his decisive actions, perseverance, and skill during the Japanese occupation, emphasising the “indescribable difficulties
Interview: All in the family. Henk Hoonhout and Ali Geeraerts
Hendrikus (Henk) Hoonhout and Alida Johanna Maria Geeraerts (Ali) are brother and sister. They both live in Prins Willem Alexander Village in Birkdale, Brisbane Queensland, albeit in separate accommodation. Ali is a widow and lives
Interview: Hank and Bertie Halle – loving sports
Husband and wife, Hank and Bertie Halle were both born in 1933. He in Deventer as Hendrik Halle, she in Zaandam as Egberta Westervaarder. Hank’s father was a well-known Dutch footballer and trainer, Jan Halle.
Interview: Wubbo Bijker – ship builder
Wubbo Edward Bijker, was born in Rotterdam, Netherlands, in April 1939. His parents were Wiebe Bijker, born in Zwolle, and Nicolette Kempff who was born in Haarlem. Grandfather Bijker was Frisian. Father Wiebe Bijker was
Interview: Bill Hunt – Builder and bridge player
Bill Hunt is living in a low-care unit of Prins Willem Alexander Village (PWA) in Brisbane because he has severe vision limitations. In spite of his English name, he was born in Assen (Drenthe) in
Interview: Hanny van der Mark -tough migration years
After having interviewed two men who live at my retirement village, I now interviewed a migrant woman. Our village actually has more female than male residents, so it’s about time. Hanny came to Australia in
Interview: Steve Flierman – Property valuer
In my village, the Prince Willem Alexander Retirement Village (PAW), there’s plenty of migrants, mostly Dutch. Some of them are here long enough to have been involved with the founding of the village. I interviewed
Interview: Henk Mollee – Hollandia Soccer Club – F.C. Lions
Australia is a land of immigrants. I am an immigrant, and you, dear reader, are probably too. High levels of immigration in the years before 1891 resulted in 32% of the population listed as overseas-born
Interview: Netherlands Honorary Consul for Queensland Marjon Wind
On June 16th 2021 I received news that the Ambassador of the Netherlands in Australia, H.E. Mrs. Marion Derckx, announced Ms. Marjon Wind to be the new Honorary Consul for Queensland. Ms. Wind succeeds Dr.
Sinterklaas Overseas Foundation
Family in Holland could have a Sinterklaas package sent to their relatives overseas. There was all kinds of stuff in there. Candy, calendar, teaspoon, gramophone record, booklets, tablecloth, you name it. In the DACC archives
Sinterklaas Treats
Pepernoten: The Traditional Sinterklaas DelicacyIs Christmas Eve truly complete without gingerbread cookies? Sinterklaas festivities naturally include these delightful treats, making them an essential part of the celebration. Gingerbread cookies, available at Dutch shops or enjoyable
Sinterklaas celebrations at Dutch Clubs in Australia
These are photographs and Dutch Australian Weekly (DAW) newspaper clippings from the DACC archives of Sinterklaas celebrations within Australian club from the early fifties onwards. Dutch Australian Weekly newspaper clippings The DAW also used Sinterklaas
Heydays of the Dutch wholesale businesses in the 1960s and 1970s
The 1960s and 70s were the heydays of Dutch shops around the country. The key importers and wholesalers at that time were: • Rubsons Pty Ltd established by Ruben Rubens in Victoria, Tasmania & Canberra;•
Dinkum yet Dutch – Author John Lindeman
Property Market Analyst John Lindeman is widely respected as one of Australia’s leading market analysts. With well over a decade of experience researching the nature and dynamics of various types of assets at major data
Our Story – Experiences of the Dutch in Queensland
To ensure that the stories of Dutch migrants would be preserved for future generations, the former Dutch-Australian Community Action Federation Qld Inc. (DACA) published a 208 page book ‘Our Story — Experiences of the Dutch
Embarking on a New Chapter: Dutch Australian Cultural Centre Transforms for the Digital Age
Sydney, November 10, 2023 The Dutch Australian Cultural Centre (DACC) is set to usher in a new era, marking a significant shift from its historical roots. A dedicated team of volunteers worked hard to build
Sinterklaas in Australia
The story of Sinterklaas (Sint Nicolaas) is of course well known, there is plenty of information on the internet about this typical Dutch tradition. Although it has changed over the years due to changes in
Nederlands Military Air Transport Services in Australia – WWII
Military Air Transport in Australia started soon before the fall of the Netherlands East Indies (NEI). In the few months before this happened evacuations started to happen, mainly of Dutch civilian personnel including families of
The cartographic migration of Wesel(s) Eijland – Dr. Jan Tent
The Wessel Islands group off the north-eastern coast of Arnhem Land has a rather abstruse history in terms of its naming and ultimate cartographic location. Cartographic evidence, and some primary documentary evidence points to a
Gerard Willems – Dutch-Australian piano virtuoso
Gerard Willems AM is a Dutch Australian classical pianist and double ARIA award winner. He came by boat (Grote Beer, Holland-America Lines) with his family in 1958 and went through several years of migrant camp
Project Migrant Australian and Dutch emigrants
In February 2023, Australian Ambassador Dr. Greg French and State Archivist Afelonne Doek opened the temporary exhibition People Movement Stories in the Netherlands National Archives in The Hague. Since that time the exhibition has also
Author Maria Douwes – Back to Australia
Maria Douwes started her career at Time-Life International, the Book Department. After that she worked at the PR-Departments at De Volkskrant (national newspaper) and the Cinetone Filmstudios. Thereafter she started her own Communication-Organisation Company and
Dutch migrant family Douwes settles in in Inala, Brisbane – 1961
This story is written by Maria Douwes and published in her book: Back to Australia The Douwes family was one of the last families to move from Amsterdam to Australia for a hundred guilders. Both the
The Douwes Family at Wacol Migrant Centre Brisbane – early 1960s
This is part of the story written by Maria Douwes, who emigrated with her family in 1960/1961 to Australia. This story is written by Maria Douwes and published in her book: Back to Australia. The Douwes
The migration of the Douwes Family on the Zuiderkruis 1960/1961
This story is written by Maria Douwes and published in her book: Back to Australia. The Douwes family was one of the last families to move from Amsterdam to Australia for a hundred guilders. Both the
CIA Report on the Break-Up of Colonial Empires – 1948
This report recently declassified assesses – in 1948 – the implications of the decolonisation of Africa and Asia for US security. The report – which also mentioned the futile attempts of the Netherlands to hold
Cape Leeuwin Gable Stone in Amsterdam
Verenigde Oostindische Compagnie – VOC – (Dutch East India Company) related gable stone with a lying lioness in the ‘gable stone wall’ at the Oudezijds Kolk in Amsterdam. The stone comes from Kleine Kattenburgerstraat 14/16
The NEI Personnel & Equipment Pool Squadron Canberra – Bundaberg
The establishment of the NEI Personnel & Equipment Pool (PEP) Squadron, initially stationed at RAAF Base in Canberra, resulted from the need to allow Netherlands East Indies (NEI) crews to recover and prepare for upcoming
Dutch-Russian Ace Pilot Iwan Smirnoff (WWII)
Ivan Vasilyevich Smirnov, a Russian pilot born in 1895 during the era of Tsarist Russia, embarked on a remarkable journey through the turbulent times of the 20th century. His life story is a testament to
Marooned on Australia – 1896 – Children’s adventure book (e-book format)
Being the Narration by Diedrich Buys of His Discoveries and Exploits in Terra Australis Incognita about the Year 1630. Author: Ernest Favenc. First known publishing date: 1896 A fictionalised account of the adventures of two
Uiver Restoration Project – Albury NSW – December 2024 newsletter added
The Uiver Memorial Community Trust – a not-for-profit organisation – is devoted to restoring Albury’s Uiver Memorial DC-2 aircraft. In 1934 the MacRobertson Air Race proclaimed itself as the greatest international air race devised, and
Dutch involvement in the Sydney Opera House
The Sydney Opera House, opened on 20 October 1973, and stands tall as an iconic symbol of Australian culture. Queen Elizabeth II officially opened it, emphasising the power of human creativity. The Sydney Symphony Orchestra
Vereenigde Oostindische Compagnie (VOC) and Australia
The Vereenigde Oostindische Compagnie (VOC) played a significant role in the exploration and early history of Australia. The relationship between the VOC and Australia can be understood through several key points: Exploration and Mapping: Dutch
Dutch claims to New Holland and the British colonisation in 1788
November 1786 saw the publication of An Historical Narrative of the Discovery of New Holland and New South Wales, which sought to explain the reasons for the British Government’s decision to establish a settlement at Botany Bay.
Archived: Dutch WWII historian visits Brisbane on 17 November
Presentation on Australian-Dutch WWII events at ANZAC Square & Memorial Galleries Camp Columbia Heritage Association invites you to a presentation by Dutch historian Bas Kreuger on Dutch Australian WWII events on 17 November 2023 at
WWII Propaganda Flights from Australia to Java
Propaganda and intelligence gathering. As the Allied Forces were able to push back the Japanese, by 1943, preparations started in Australia to liberate the Netherlands East Indies (NEI). The Netherlands East Indies Government-in-Exile was established
N.E.S.I.S. Netherlands Savings and Investment Society Ltd.
This institution was a non-profit organisation established to provide extra finance to people of Dutch descent for home improvements, especially those who related to the Netherlands Co-operative Housing Society (formerly the Netherlands Co-operative Building Societies,
Almar Zaadstra – Painter of Australian history
Almar Zaadstra is an Australian artist based in Casterton, Victoria. Almar arrived in Australia at the age of 6 in 1966, the 4th of six children born to Sake and Ytje . They left Oudega
Master Lithographer Fred Genis- first celebrity printer in Australia.
Fred Genis (1934 Amersfoort, Netherlands – 2022 Mullumbimby, Australia) was a Master Lithographer and the first celebrity printer in Australia. Genis was a partner in the Hollanders Workshop in New York in the late 60’s, early
Amazing drawings from Timor fighter Richard Bartman who drowned at the sinking of the HMAS Armidale (1942).
By Gerard van Haren Richard was born on January 3, 1913, in Probolinggo, situated on the island of Java. He held the position of a militia sergeant, bearing the title tkl (2nd class), and was
The last VOC exploration voyage to Australia – 1756
The text below is a brief summary of a report titled “EXPLORATORY VOYAGE OF THE SHIPS RIJDER AND BUIS, COMMANDED BY LIEUTENANT JEAN ETIENNE GONZAL AND FIRST LAVIENNE LODEWIJK VAN ASSCHENS, TO THE GULF OF
No 18 and 120 Squadrons involved in the Western Australian Emergency – March 1944
18 and 120 Squadrons involved in the Western Australian Emergency – March 1944 Lack of staffing saw a delay in the formation of the 120 (Nederlands East Indies) Fighter Squadron RAAF. It was formed in
Clogball: Remembering the 38 Dutch football clubs of Australia
From the book Clogball – The Dutch and Soccer in Australia. A migrant Story. By Adam Muyt If you think the Dutch have never won a World Cup you’re mistaken: Holland won a World Cup back
Sam Roggeveen – Director Lowy Institute
Sam Roggeveen was born in the Netherlands and emigrated with his family to Australia when he was seven years old. Before joining the Lowy Institute, Sam was a senior strategic analyst in Australia’s peak intelligence
Er is er een jarig hoera hoera!
A Dutch tribute on the 50th anniversary of the opening of that hallowed hall on the harbour. Willen van Otterloo conducted the Sydney Symphony Orchestra (SSO) for the inaugural concert in front of the Queen.
De Nederlandse Vereniging in Bankstown
The following information was written in 1985. The Club no longer exists This club is at the moment in a kind of transition state. Many of its old members have moved and their children live
We need your help
Enhancing Dutch Australian Cultural Heritage Together Over the past few years, you have undoubtedly noticed the gradual expansion of Dutch-Australian cultural information within our database. We hold a strong belief in the significance of documenting
Join us in preserving Dutch-Australian heritage
Are you passionate about preserving and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Dutch Australians? The Dutch Australian Cultural Centre LTD (DACC) invites you to become a valued volunteer and contribute to the maintenance of our
Dutch cargo confiscated in Sydney – 1942
In January 1942, based on this document from the Australian National Archives, Dutch cargo from the Norwegian M/S Høegh Silverstar, destined for the Netherlands East Indies (NEI), was confiscated on orders from the American Government
Dutch Jewish refugees met again in Australia
Article about Ruben Rubens and Bob van Ameringen. They were friends in the Netherlands before WWII when their lives were disrupted. They became refugees but eventually, separately, settled in Australia. Here after 50 years they
Dutch-Australian painter Henricus van den Houten (1801-1879)
Henricus Leonardus van den Houten (The Hague 1801- Melbourne 1879) was a Dutch-Australian painter, lithographer, and art teacher. He developed a passion for art at a young age. He studied painting and honed his skills
Archive Nederlandse Vereening in NSW
Main article Nederlandse Vereeniging in NSW This is one of the very first Dutch Clubs in Australia, established in 1944.
Visit of Dutch Aircraft Carrier Karel Doorman – 1960 – New Guinea Crisis
HNLMS Karel Doorman was a ‘Colossus-class’ aircraft carrier of the Royal Netherlands Navy. Formerly the British ship HMS Venerable, she was sold to the Netherlands in 1948 as a light attack carrier. In 1960, she
Dr. Sir Hendrik Johan Rutgers (1917-1997)
Gedurende de Tweede Wereldoorlog was Henk verzetsstrijder tijdens de Duitse bezetting van Nederland. Na de oorlog werd hij uitgezonden naar Batavia in het voormalige Nederlands Indie als Officier van Justitie bij de berechting van Japanse
Royal Netherlands State visit to Australia 2016
The state visit of His Majesty King Willem-Alexander and Her Majesty Queen Máxima of the Netherlands to Australia in October/November 2016 was a significant diplomatic event that strengthened the ties between the two countries. Here
WWII airfields in the Top End used by the Dutch
Australia was ill prepared when it found itself within reach of the Japanese invaders during WWII. The infrastructure especially in the north of the country where the threat was most immediate was very poor or
Dutch heritage of Australian football players Gary and Emily van Egmond
Gary van Egmond was born in Newcastle in 1965. His family had emigrated to Australia at an earlier time. He played professional football for the Newcastle United Jets and the Australian national team. He also
Catherina van der Linden at 111 oldest Dutch and Australian person (+2024)
Catherina van der Linden was born on 26 August 1912 in Amersfoort, Utrecht, Netherlands to tailor Gradus Lambertus Johannes van Meegen (1876–1954) and Cornelia Maria Verstallen (1878–1946). She grew up in Nijmegen, Gelderland. On 23
Catherina van der Linden at 111 oldest Dutch and Australian person (2023)
Catherina van der Linden was born on 26 August 1912 in Amersfoort, Utrecht, Netherlands to tailor Gradus Lambertus Johannes van Meegen (1876–1954) and Cornelia Maria Verstallen (1878–1946). She grew up in Nijmegen, Gelderland. On 23
Results DIMEX (Dutch Immigrant’s Experiences) surveys – 2004 and 2018
In 2004, volunteers from the DACC undertook the first Dutch Immigrant’s Experiences (DIMEX) survey. This first survey aimed to investigate several aspects of Dutch emigration to Australia. Key topics covered by the survey included: main
Book review: “Through Darkest Seas” by Graeme Cocks (2023)
Graeme Cocks. Through Darkest Seas. Inglewood: Motoring Past Vintage Publishing, 2023. E-book. Review by Jorien van Beukering Ever wondered what it would be like to build a replica of a seventeenth-century ship of exploration? If
Hoe is het om als Nederlander in Australië te wonen? (video 7-8-2023)
The Nederlands Jeugdjournaal had a report about a Dutch family who moved to Australia in 2022. The broadcast took place on August 7, 2023 when Australia was the center of attention for the women’s soccer
Tall ship Oosterschelde leads the Darwin200 Global Voyage.
The DARWIN200 Global Voyage is a two-year voyage that will follow the route of Charles Darwin’s voyage on the HMS Beagle around the world. The voyage will take place from 2023 to 2025 and will
Dr. Cornelius Wouters, champion of Dutch culture.
Dr. Cornelius Willebrod Wouters (18 August 1896, Waspik -20 January 1978, Brunssum). During his youth and early adulthood he moved around the Netherlands. He met his wife in Waalwijk and after several other jobs became
Dutch Catholic Hostel in Brisbane
In 1889, German priest and scientist, Arnold Janssen, together with German women Helena Stollenwerk and Hendrina Stenmanns, founded the Holy Spirit Missionary Sisters (in Dutch: “Dienaressen van de Heilige Geest” in German: “Dienerinnen des Heiligen
Australian history of Dutch ship De Lauwers, lost in Cyclone Tracy
Booya was built in Waterhuizen, the Netherlands in 1917 by Gebroeders van Diepen, under her original name, De Lauwers. She was a three-masted auxiliary schooner with a steel hull and a 130 bhp engine. In
Ir. Haveman Emigration Commissioner 1950-1970
Bastiaan Wouter Haveman was born in 1908 in Wijnjeterp, Friesland. He grew up as a pastor’s son with four brothers and a sister. He obtained his master’s degree in chemical engineering in Delft and subsequently
Australia emigration in Dutch Newspapers 1954-1978
Dr. C Wouters has been the most important person during the emigration period between 1950 and 1980 representing the Dutch emigrants in Australia. He tirelessly advocated for recognition of Dutch culture, history and especially its
Dutch Connection – Dutch Radio for the Illawarra
By Dr. Yoke Berry from Dutch in Wollongong, released at the celebration of the 25th anniversary of the Dutch Connection radio programme. On Sunday the 9th of November 1997, the first Dutch program in the Illawarra
Nederlandse Vereniging in NSW (1944-2008)
This is one of the earliest Dutch Clubs in Australia, founded in 1944. The official name was first Nederlandse Vereeniging in Nieuw Zuid Wales (N.Z.W), later documents state Nederlandse Vereniging in NSW and later the
The Ghosts of Christmas (Island) – Dr. Jan Tent
For some three centuries confusion existed among Europeans over the location and name of the Indian Ocean island now referred to as Christmas Island. Maps appeared charting the island with no name, with one of
The 1705 van Delft expedition to northern Australia: a toponymic perspective – Dr. Jan Tent
During the 17th and 18th centuries the Dutch were quite active in exploring the western and northern coastlines of the Great Southland. Of one of these expeditions, conducted by Maerten van Delft in 1705, intelligence
The curious Van Dijk map of the Gulf of Carpentaria – Dr. Jan Tent
In 1859 the Dutch historian, L.C.D. van Dijk published a book on the voyages of discovery made by Jan Carstenszoon in 1623 and Jean Etienne Gonzal in 1756 to the Gulf of Carpentaria. The book
Naming Places on the ‘Southland’: European Place-Naming Practices from 1606 to 1803
The history of charting Australia’s coastline is well documented from most perspectives,but not from a toponymic standpoint. Between 1606 and 1803, some nine hundredEuropean placenames were bestowed along the Australian coast. Authors Jan Tent and
Naming places: Dutch voyagers and toponyms in the fifth part of the world, 1616-1722
Some of the first Europeans to venture into the southern Pacific Ocean were the Dutch during the 17th and early 18th centuries. The linguistic legacy of these expeditions can be found in a small number
Moent and Dubbelde Ree: Two of Australia’s First Recorded Placenames – Dr. Jan Tent
The year 2006 marked the quatercentenary of the first known European charting of any part of the Australian coastline, when the Dutch mariner Willem Janszoon explored 300 kms of the north-west coast of Cape York
Early Dutch loanwords in the South Pacific
The Polynesian islands share in common the fact that the first European language they came into contact with was the English brought first by Captain Cook, spread by whalers and traders and later consolidated by
Dinnings land: a case of mistranscription? – by Dr. Jan Tent
On some early maps of Australia the name Dinnings Land or Terres de Dinning appears near the Swan River. Who or what was Dinning? This article explores this question, and argues it is a case
Rose van Bruinessen, Matildas Footballer #10
Rose van Bruinessen (married name Rosemary Moodley), known as Matilda #10, was one of the pioneering figures in women’s football in Australia. She played a significant role as a defender in the early days of
Dutch names in Australia – Linguist Dr. Jan Tent
Dr Jan Tent was born in Amsterdam, his parents originating from Groningen. Jan’s father worked for IBM in Amsterdam. In 1957 his father was made production manager of the IBM typewriter and punch card plant
Articles, Poems and Letters to the Editor from Dr. C Wouters
Dr. Wouters did not shy away from controversial issues. He refused to swear allegiance to the Queen during his naturalisation ceremony, instead he was allowed to swear on the Bible, something that since that time
De Nederlandse gemeenschap in het sociale leven van Australia – 1958
The Dutch community in social life in Australia.
Many awards bestowed on Dr Wouters
Dr. Cornelius Wouters is most likely the internationally most awarded Dutch-Australian. He was awarded the Knighthood in the Order of Oranje-Nassau. He also received the Silver Anjer from the Prins Bernhard Fonds in 1976 for
Stephanie Branz – Dutch-Australian Sports-commentator
In this video clip from the National Archives of Australia Stephanie talks about her Dutch heritage. Stephanie Brantz is a television presenter and sports personality from Australia. Born in 1972 in Queensland to Dutch parents
New Holland the name for Australia from1644-1824
The name New Holland (Hollandia Novae) appeared on maps depicting the continent of Australia after the Dutch seafarer Abel Tasman charted the west coast of the continent in 1644. According to linguist Dr. Jan Tent
Dutch/Australian Artist Queenie van de Zandt Invites Dutch women over 40 to share their stories of menopause and middle age
Queenie van de Zandt is the daughter of Ria and Hans van de Zandt. Hans is the co-founder of the Canberra Dutch Club in the ACT. Queenie mentioned that she is very proud to be
The many Netherlands Naval Visits to Australia starting in 1901
It is interesting to note that in the 20th century the Royal Netherlands Navy visited Australia more times than any of the other other European Continental Countries. This has obviously to do with the Dutch
Peter Zorgdrager established Miniland in Coonabarabran
Miniland was a theme park in Coonabarabran, New South Wales, Australia. It was opened in 1972 by Peter Zorgdrager, a Dutch immigrant who was inspired by Dusneyland. The park featured a variety of giant sculptures,
Catalogue of an exhibition (in Groningen) about the history of Australia – 1988
Het onbekende Zuidland naderbij’ by Jaap van der Veen is a catalogue of an exhibition about the history of Australia, the Aborigines and the Dutch explorers and emigrants. It is published by Volkenkundig Museum ‘Gerardus
Dutch emigration literature in Australia
In previous months we have highlighted Dutch literature in Australia and we continue this month with another collection of interesting and often forgotten books. However, some will recall nostalgic memories from those who arrives as
Royal Netherlands Navy flying boat operations in Australia during WWII
The centre of gravity of the Airforce of the Royal Netherlands Navy ( Marine Luchtvaartdienst – MLD) was undisputed in the Netherlands East Indies (NEI). The aircraft carried out many reconnaissance flights for the fleet.
Hospital ship Oranje looked after more than 30.000 wounded soldiers
Dutch passenger liner Oranje was built in 1939 build by the Nederlandse Scheepsbouw Maatschappij and was at the time one of the most modern ones in operation. However, its operation as a liner was cut
Shell’s Ondina tanker played a key role in WWII operating from Exmouth
The MV Ondina was a tanker ship that played a role in World War II. It was launched in April 1939 and was built at the NDSM shipyard in Amsterdam. Upon completion in August 1939,
Destroyers Van Galen and Tjerk Hiddes played a key role in WWII Timor operations from Australia
The HNLMS Van Galen and Tjerk Hiddes were N-class destroyer built as HMS Noble and HMS Nonpareil for the Royal Navy during the Second World War and transferred to the Royal Netherlands Navy shortly after
Dutch Cruiser HNLMS Jacob van Heemskerck Protecting Allied WWII Shipping in Australia
The HNLMS Jacob van Heemskerck, a light cruiser of the Royal Netherlands Navy, arrived in Australia in October 1942 and was based in Fremantle, Western Australia. She was assigned to Allied Naval Forces Western Australia
Commissioner for Emigration Nederland 1948-1967
The Regeringscommissaris voor de Emigratie was a government commissioner for emigration who was appointed by the Dutch government in 1948 to coordinate and stimulate the emigration of Dutch citizens to other countries, especially after World
Dutch Gunboot Flores Visits Australia to Commemorate Sydney’s 150th Anniversary 1938
The Dutch Gunboot Flores arrived in Sydney on January 17, 1938, to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the city’s founding. The ship was a 1,200-ton gunboat that was built in 1925. She was armed with
Dutch Submarine K-XVIII Visits Fremantle in 1935
The Dutch submarine K-XVIII made a historic visit to Fremantle in 1935. It was the first Dutch submarine to ever visit the port, and it helped to strengthen the ties between the Netherlands and Australia.
Dutch Naval Visit to Australia in 1930
A Dutch naval squadron visited Australia in 1930, led by Rear Admiral C.C. Kaijser on the light cruiser HNLMS Java with the destroyers De Ruyter and Evertsen. The following ports were visited successively: Fremantle, Adelaide,
The DACC Library Collection
The DACC Library has a collection of books, magazines, CD’s, DVD’s and VHS tapes. Most are not yet in the online data base. The table below lists the categories and the number of books and
Jan van de Stool – the Dutch/Australian comedic, alter-ego of performer Queenie van de Zandt
Jan van de Stool, International Musical Therapist – was a successful Real Estate Agent before giving it all up and making a natural progression into becoming a Self-Help Guru. She lives in Woy Woy, with
Elizabeth Stukkien author of Hartog’s children
Elizabeth Stukkien was born in 1942 in the Netherlands and emigrated to Australia in 1971 with her husband and four children. She worked as a teacher and a librarian in Perth and Brisbane. She died
WWII Naval Commander Australia Pieter Koenraad
Koenraad, Pieter, naval officer (born in Dirksland 6-6-1890 – died in Las Palmas in the Canary Islands 22-2-1968). Son of Johannes Adrianus Koenraad, headteacher, and Alida Elizabeth de Graaff. Married on 5-5-1923 to Catharina Cornelia
Rear Admiral Coster revisits the Dutch war effort from Australia.
Parliamentary inquiry into government policy 1940-1945 This parliamentary inquiry focused on the government policy of the cabinets De Geer, Gerbrandy and Schermerhorn, since the German invasion of the Netherlands on 10 May 1940 and in
Emigration on the MS Sibajak
The MS Sibajak was a passenger ship named after Mount Sibayak, a volcano located in Sumatra, Indonesia. It was built at the Koninklijke Maatschappij “De Schelde” shipyard in Vlissingen, Netherlands. The ship was initially constructed
Ype De Bruin OAM leading figure in the Dutch Community in Victoria
Ype is the President of the Associated Netherlands Societies in Victoria; a position he has held for 29 years. He worked for 32 years with the Gas & Fuel Corporation, during which time he held
Celebrating Rembrandt: True to life – at NGV Melbourne
The National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) in Melbourne is presenting an exhibition dedicated to the work of seventeenth-century Dutch master Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn. Rembrandt: True to life follows the work of Rembrandt from early
Dutch-Indonesian-Australian Geophysicist and artist William Wiebenga
William Alexander Christiaan Johannes Wiebenga was an Indonesian-Dutch-Australian geophysicist and artist. He was born in Benkoelen, Indonesia (now known as Bengkulu, Indonesia) on December 5, 1910. His father with the same name, William Alexander Christiaan
Australian Actor Anthony LaPaglia has Dutch Ancestry
Maria Johannes Brendel is a secretary and the mother of Australian actor Anthony LaPaglia. She is originally from the Netherlands and has Dutch ethnicity. Her husband Gedio “Eddie” LaPaglia, emigrated from Bovalino, Province of Reggio
Royal Netherlands Navy (Koninklijke Marine) in Australia
Unlike the Netherlands East Indies (NEI) Army and its Air Force, the Koninklijke Marine (KM – Royal Netherlands Navy) that operated in NEI, was part of the Dutch Navy. They resorted under the Minister for
The Headquarters of the Dutch East Indies Armed Forces (HK-KNIL) in Melbourne and Brisbane
The Headquarters of the Dutch East Indies Armed Forces was together with the Onderbevelhebber Srijdkrachten in het Oosten – OBSO (Deputy Commander of the Forces in the East) in charge of the construction of the
Emigratie Commissie of the Nederlandse Vrouwen Comité
The Emigratie Commissie was a committee of the Nederlandse Vrouwen Comité (NVC – Dutch Women’s Council). The Emigration Commission of the Dutch Women’s Council, was an organisation in the Netherlands that focused on assisting women
Stichting Landverhuizing Nederland (Foundation for Emigration Netherlands) – 1913-1967
The Nederlandse Vereniging Landverhuizing (Netherlands Association Emigration) was established in 1913 to promote Dutch emigration. It merged with the Emigration Centre Holland (Emigratie Centrale Holland) in 1931 and formed the Netherlands Emigration Foundation (Stichting Landverhuizing
Dutch Football Club Austral Sydney
Dutch Football Club Austral was a soccer club that was founded in Sydney by a group of Dutch immigrants, under the name Hollandia at the Black Tulip Restaurant in George Street in 1949. Its restaurateur
Van Diemen’s Land became Tasmania 1642-1856
The name Van Diemen’s Land was given to the island of Tasmania by the Dutch explorer Abel Tasman in 1642, in honour of Anthony van Diemen, the Governor General of the Dutch East Indies who
The entrepreneurial Sypkes family in Tasmania
It all started with Engel Sypkes, an Australian businessman who migrated from the Netherlands to Tasmania in 1951. Shortly after his arrival, he opened a small general store in Stanley. After a trip to the
“Leesgids Australië: Verhalen uit en over Australië” – 2003
“Leesgids Australië: Verhalen uit en over Australië” is a book that features stories by Australian writers as well as travel stories by travelers who have visited the country. It was first published in 2003 and
Book: Onder schoolkinderen en andere verhalen – 1963
This book is a collection of short stories by Henk Romijn Meijer, a Dutch novelist, anglist and essayist who wrote with an English kind of irony. The stories are partly based on his experience as
The Return of Dutch Migrants from Australia, New Zealand and Canada – 1983
The book The Return of Dutch Migrants from Australia, New Zealand and Canada is a research report written by Wim Blauw and Joed Elich and published by the Netherlands Interuniversity Demographic Institute (NIDI) in 1983.
Books about Mary Bryant and the Batavia from Anthony van Kampen
“Het leven van Mary Bryant” (The Life of Maty Bryant) is a three-volume book written by Anthony van Kampen and published in 1968 by Unieboek NV in Bussum, the Netherlands. The book is written in
Hilma Dymphna Lodewyckx married to Manning Clark.
Hilma Dymphna Lodewyckx (1916-2000) was the daughter of Augustin Lodewyckx and Anna Sophia Hansen. She was born in Stellenbosch, South Africa and later moved to Melbourne, Australia with her family when her father was appointed
The Indisch Dutch in post-war Australia
Recalling the Indies: Colonial Culture and Postcolonial Identities. This is an article written by Dr Joost Coté, Monash University (Australia) and published in June 2010 in the “Tijdschrift voor Sociale en Economische Geschiedenis” Abstract. This
Investigating Lexical Attrition in Long-Term Dutch Expatriates in Australia: A Study on First Language
Dissertation by Ton Ammerlaan (born 1960) Radbout University Nijmegen – 1996 Introduction: Language attrition, the gradual loss of one’s first language (LI) proficiency due to decreased exposure and use, has been a topic of interest
Book: Australia and New Zealand – 1965
“Australië en Nieuw-Zeeland” is the Dutch translation of the book “Australia and New Zealand” written by Colin MacInnes in collaboration with the editors of LIFE magazine. The translation was done by Anna R. Wierdsma. The
Books by Koos Schuur on his refelection on emigration to Australia 1953
The book En de kookaburra lacht… Brieven van een emigrant (And the kookaburra laughs… Letters from an emigrant) is a collection of letters written by Koos Schuur, a Dutch poet, writer, and translator. The letters
Joop van der Laan: Press Officer Dutch Embassy Australia, journalist and author.
Jozef Jacob (Joop) van der Laan was a Dutch journalist born in Assen, in 1886. Coming from a family of butchers, Joop ventured into journalism and began his career as a volunteer at the local
Book: Land in de verte – 1952
The book is a novel by Nevil Shute, published in English as The Far Country in 1952. The book is set in post-war England and Australia, and it tells the story of Jennifer Morton, a
“Australië” – “A Book of Australia” 1962
“A Book of Australia” by Tom Inglis Moore. The Dutch-language edition of “A Book of Australia” was translated by J.J.A. Bakker. The book was published in a hardcover edition and has a dust jacket. The
Information from the Dutch Emigration Service – 1953
Nederlandse Emigratiedienst, Australië. Dagelijks leven van emigranten tegen de achtergrond der Australische economie. Recente emigrantenbrieven, aangevuld met enkele belangrijke artikelen, welke de laatste tijd over Australië het licht zagen, themanummer van: Leven en Werken in
Podcast: ” Australië tot nu toe” SBS Dutch
Historicus Ingeborg van Teeseling bespreekt maandelijks een onderwerp uit de Australische geschiedenis. Van de na-oorlogse migratie stroom en de controverse omtrent Australia Day tot de herkomst van ‘single sex’ scholen. Historian Ingeborg van Teeseling discusses
Dutch in Victoria – Henk Overberg
Dr. Henk Overberg was a Senior Lecturer, School of Australian and International Studies at Deakin University, Melbourne and an academic researcher at Victoria College, Melbourne. He specialised in ethnic research and researched the history and culture of
Frank Leddy reorganised Philips Australasia
By Hans Overberg Franciscus Nicolaas Leddy (1903-1964), company director, was born on 20 April 1903 at Rotterdam, the Netherlands, son of Franciscus Nicolaas Leddy, director of prisons, and his wife Cornelia, née Delabrie. Educated at
