Their radio podcast comprises of an oral history of the Benalla Migrant Camp.
The migrant camp at Benalla was Australia's longest-running post-WWII camp of its type, yet it is one of the least remembered.
It was called ‘The Benalla Experiment’ because it specialised in accommodating 'unsupported' mothers and their children, sometimes for decades.
Award judges have praised the project, stating that in The Benalla Experiment, a producer (Gallacher) and a sound engineer (Girvan) bring to life the experiences of those who lived in the Benalla Migrant Camp between 1949 and 1967, contrasting the more carefree memories of the children with their mothers’ recollections of poverty, hardship and the trauma of war.
The Victorian Community History Awards celebrate the preservation and sharing of Victoria’s past.
Twenty-one publications, and eight projects, have been shortlisted for 10 prizes ranging from $500 to $2000.
All are also in the running for the $5000 Victorian Premier’s History Award, to be announced at the Melbourne Arts Centre on October 21.
Victorian Government Services Minister Danny Pearson said the Victorian Community History Awards were presented by the Public Record Office Victoria in partnership with the Royal Historical Society of Victoria and were funded by the state government.
“Without knowing our past we can’t know where we are going, so it’s fantastic we can recognise these projects and publications that bring Victoria’s colourful history to life,” Mr Pearson said.
“The projects have something for everyone, from exciting new books to walking tours uncovering the stories hidden on our city streets.”
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