Kisimba family from Democratic Republic of Congo, Doonside (July 2010-July 2011)

Digital Photograph

MG 1361

a5482 Online

Diverse Communities of NSW Oral History Project

Louise Whelan is an accomplished photographer and oral historian. Over the past few years she has set out to document Sydney and regional New South Wales communities, capturing the diversity and dynamism of our contemporary society. Having accrued a rich archive of photographs, Louise decided to approach the Library about interviewing her many friends and contacts for an oral history project.

Starting in 2013, Louise has now interviewed 28 people who have generously shared their personal stories and experiences. They include, among others, Australians of African, Iranian, Afghani, South Asian, Pacific Island origins, many of whom came to Australia as refugees. Having built up relationships of trust with many communities through her photography, Louise has elicited honest and often raw stories from these courageous new citizens of Australia. Importantly, Louise also included several Australians working in refugee support, adding another thought-provoking dimension to this new collection.

The recordings are an invaluable addition to the Library’s oral history collection, which aims to capture the voices of those who may not otherwise make it into the records.