Investigating Bonegilla - A virtual site study

Our work and impact

Investigating Bonegilla is an inquiry-based educational resource that brings one of Australia's most significant post-war migrant reception centres to life. Through an immersive virtual experience and curriculum-aligned learning materials, the project enables students, teachers and the wider community to explore Bonegilla's history and the experiences of the people who passed through it.

Developed in partnership with local government, historians and educators, the initiative supports historical inquiry by encouraging learners to examine evidence, ask questions and develop a deeper understanding of Australia's migration story.

Who it supports

The Bonegilla Virtual Site Study supports:

• Primary and secondary school teachers delivering the Australian History Curriculum.
• Students exploring Australia's post-war migration history.
• Community members interested in local and national history.
• Researchers and lifelong learners seeking accessible historical resources.

Key focus areas include:

Immersive learning

Explore the Bonegilla Migrant Reception and Training Centre through an interactive 3D virtual site experience.

Resources

• Explore the Virtual Site Study
• Download the Virtual Tour Quick Guide
• Teacher's Guide to the Virtual Tour

Curriculum resources

A collection of introductory resources designed to help students and teachers get the most from the virtual site.

Resources include:

• Introducing Bonegilla: The Place
• Visitor Introduction
• Teacher Introduction

Historical investigations

Investigate the major themes that shaped Australia's post-war migration experience.

Resources include:

• Change and Continuity
• Troubled Times
• Migration Experiences
• Protests and Riots

Bonegilla on film

Explore archival footage and historical interpretations of Bonegilla through curated film resources.

Resources include:

• Bonegilla's Beginnings
• Bonegilla's End

Project outcomes

The Bonegilla Virtual Site Study:

• Preserves and shares the history of the Bonegilla Migrant Reception and Training Centre.
• Supports inquiry-based learning aligned with the Australian History Curriculum.
• Makes nationally significant historical resources accessible through digital technologies.
• Encourages greater understanding of Australia's migration history and multicultural heritage.

Partners

• Charles Sturt University
• Albury City Council
• Wodonga City Council
• National Archives of Australia
• Other contributing historians and project partners

Get involved