How do I connect my family’s story to my family member’s Bonegilla Identity Card(s)?
At the start of the submission process, the first section of the online form will ask you to connect family members to your story.
Use the search bar (in red) to find a family member listed in the Bonegilla Identity Card and Memory Collection.
- As you begin typing, a list of identity card records will appear.
- Select the person you wish to include.
- The selected people will appear above the search bar.
- You can add as many people as needed.
- To remove someone, click the remove button.
All the people you select will be linked to the story you submit.
What if I have multiple family members?
You can connect multiple family members to a single-story submission by searching and adding each person you would like to include. Alternatively, you can make separate submissions for individual family members if you prefer.
Can I create multiple submissions?
Yes, you can complete the submission process multiple times if you would like to create separate stories for different family members. Alternatively, you can include multiple family members within a single submission.
How many images can I include?
You can add up to 10 images per submission. Each image has a maximum file size limit of 2 MB.
My family has already written our migration story and I have a PDF copy – can I include this?
You can include a summary of your family’s migration story or memoir to feature and link to an existing Bonegilla Identity Card by following the guide included on the submission form.
We also welcome donation offers from those who have items related to Bonegilla Migrant Reception and Training Centre such as memoirs, documents and publications for possible inclusion in the Bonegilla Collection. Please see our Object Donations page on the website for more information
Can I share our family’s stories and images here, even though they’re already in another museum or online collection?
That’s great to hear your family history has been preserved.
You can share your family’s story and link to an existing Bonegilla Identity Card even if it’s already preserved elsewhere. You can write a summary of your story in the sections provided on the submission form, indicate where your full story can be found or include a link in your content to an existing online story, content or collection. This allows your family’s migration story to be featured while connecting to the complete content elsewhere.
Can I include videos?
Yes. You can include video links from YouTube and Vimeo. If you have video content you would like to share, you can upload it to one of these platforms and then include the URL in the relevant section of the form.
If you have stories you would like to share but do not have an existing video, you may be able to take part in a one-on-one filmed, or audio-recorded, interview. Once an interview has been recorded, edited and finalised, it may be linked to a Bonegilla Identity Card, helping preserve personal stories and memories in a way that written words alone cannot capture.
Can I see an example of a story someone else has written?
Yes. Many Bonegilla Identity Cards already feature family stories that have been shared, which you can read one for inspiration and guidance.
Will I get to review my story before it is made public online and featured in the Bonegilla Identify Card and Memory Collection?
Once your story has been submitted, you will not be able to make further edits or review the content. Our team at Bonegilla Migrant Experience carefully review all submissions before they are published and may make adjustments, if required. If you need to request changes later, you can contact our team for assistance.
What if I need more help?
If you need further assistance, you can email us at [email protected]
Can I share with other people?
Yes! Once your story is submitted and published, it will be made publicly available online and featured in the Bonegilla Identity Card and Memory Collection on Bonegilla Migrant Experience’s website where family and others can read and explore it alongside your family’s Bonegilla Identity Card record.
Sharing memories helps connect families, preserve personal experiences and contribute to a richer understanding of life at Bonegilla Migrant Reception and Training Centre.
What should I prepare?
Take a moment to gather any memories, names, places or events you’d like to include. You may also want to collect photographs, letters, documents or short video clips that help bring your story to life.
Your story doesn’t need to be long or perfect — even a few sentences or a single memory can make a meaningful contribution. Preparing your materials ahead of time makes it easier to connect your story to the right family members and create a lasting record for future generations.
We have also provided a guide of topics that you may wish to reflect on. These are pre-populated on the submission form.
Submitting your story?
Your story is submitted in a single session, so it’s important to have your content prepared before you begin. Take the time to gather your memories, names, places and any supporting materials such as photographs, letters, documents or short video clips in advance.
Once you start the submission, you will be guided through connecting your story to the relevant family members and uploading any media. As submissions are final, unless you contact Bonegilla Migrant Experience’s team, having your materials organised beforehand will make the process smoother and help ensure your story is complete and accurate.
After you submit your family story you'll receive a confirmation that we have received your submission. Our team will then review your content and notify you via email when it has been published live.
Need help with sharing your story?
If you encounter any difficulties while uploading your content or completing your submission, you can contact our team for assistance. You can reach us by email at [email protected]
