G’day everyone – It’s Joey here 😀
This collage pays tribute to the 1.5 million British and Irish families, primarily from working-class backgrounds, who embarked on a transformative journey during the 1950s and 1960s. These intrepid souls boarded ships bound for Australia, lured by the promise of a fresh start under the £10 assisted package scheme. As a Londoner, I vividly recall encountering these propaganda posters throughout the city, and I distinctly remember three of my fellow primary schoolmates bidding farewell to their familiar surroundings.
In the land Down Under, these courageous migrants earned the moniker of “Ten Pound Poms”. Their migration was fueled by dreams of better housing, improved job prospects, and an enhanced quality of life—all for the cost of a mere ten pounds. However, reality in Australia proved more complex than the enticing promises. Struggling with their newfound immigrant identity, they navigated both triumphs and pitfalls as they adapted to life in a distant country far removed from their British roots.
I hope this collage captures the resilience, hopes, and challenges of those who embarked on this remarkable journey—a testament to the indomitable human spirit seeking a brighter future. #2024cw5
Joey Cardmaker 