THE DECADE AFTER WW2


THE DECADE AFTER WWII IN HELENSBURGH, OTFORD, STANWELL PARK, STANWELL TOPS, COALCLIFF, AND DARKES FOREST. Now available for $10 plus postage. Email info@historichelensburgh.org.au or purchase via our Merchandise page.

DR LORRAINE JONES VICE PRESIDENT HELENSBURGH AND DISTRICT HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 

The Decade after WW2

This publication takes the reader from the end of WWII into the modern era of industrialisation and the production and use of consumer goods within Australia. What an exciting time. Full work for all! No youth unemployment! There were advertisements in the local newspaper offering apprenticeships and work for 15-year-olds leaving school. The need for workers was so great that Arthur Caldwell, the federal politician, introduced the migration scheme in 1947. This scheme saw British and European migrants move into Helensburgh and Stanwell Park. The igloos which formerly lined Walker Street used to provide housing for these New Australians. The teacher at Stanwell Park School set up English classes at night for the newcomers.

The clothing factory in Helensburgh provided work for the local women. Mushroom farming was established in disused railway tunnels. 

Coal miners strikes caused major disruption of peoples’ lives throughout the Eastern Coast. The women in Helensburgh and down the coast compensated for the hardship from the strike by setting up soccer competitions which continued for about 3 years.

More exciting stories are contained in this easily readable book. It is lavishly illustrated with local photographs. It will entertain you during these troubled times.