In 1920, Mario Borgo travelled from Italy to arrive in Sydney with only five pounds in his pocket. His future — whether to go to the coal mines of Newcastle or Wollongong — was decided by the toss of a coin and would see the Borgo family become part of the Wollongong community from that moment on.
In 1976, Lithuanian migrant, Bronius (Bob) Sredersas transformed the cultural landscape of Wollongong by donating his collection of over 100 paintings and artefacts to the City of Wollongong. This huge act of generosity would prompt the opening of the Wollongong Art Gallery. *
These anecdotes are just two of the personal local stories that will be shared as part of Wollongong City Libraries' Show and Tell event this Friday 12 March at Wollongong Library.
This month is Multicultural March and to celebrate, Wollongong City Libraries are inviting people to share their stories about Wollongong and listen to the experiences of other community members.
"Wollongong has a long and significant history, from the Dharawal people who remain the Traditional Custodians of this land, to our new community members who have migrated to Australia and now call Wollongong home," Wollongong City Council Lord Mayor Councillor Gordon Bradbery AM said.
"To celebrate Multicultural March, the Library is inviting you to come along and share your story of living in Wollongong by bringing along a treasured object that tells a story about your culture, family or lived experience. Our Library staff will also share objects and documents from the Wollongong City Libraries Local Studies collection."
The Library Show and Tell is a free community event and attendees are encouraged to bring along a treasured object to share with others or simply come along on the day to hear stories from their community. Light refreshments will be served at the conclusion of this event.
Numbers for this event are limited so visit Eventbrite to book your free ticket today to avoid disappointment.
We ask all attendees to our Libraries to do their part and stay COVID safe by checking in using the QR code on arrival, washing their hands or using hand sanitiser, staying 1.5 metres away from other guests and staying home if feeling unwell.
Wollongong City Libraries will continue to monitor the NSW Public Health Order and will notify attendees of any event changes.
WHEN & WHERE
Friday 12 March,10.30am – 12noon
Wollongong Library, 41 Burelli Street
Book your free ticket via Eventbrite or visit the Wollongong City Libraries website for more great events and programs.
* Excerpts from the Wollongong City Libraries' local studies archive.
Top image: Wollongong Harbour, 1900. See image details on the Library catalogue.
