The Wonthaggi and District Historical Society, in partnership with the Mining and Energy Union (MEU) Morwell Branch, officially launched a video collection “Yesterday Stories”. This captivating video series preserves the first-hand accounts of the people who shaped the region’s identity. Over 70 people attended the official launch at the Railway Station Museum where Victorian District President Andy Smith explained why the MEU undertook the project, and it’s significance to ensure the coal mining heritage of Wonthaggi is captured.

The Yesterday Stories project shines a light on the triumphs and tragedies of Wonthaggi’s mining era, highlighting four specific themes central to the town’s heritage. Multiculturalism celebrates the diverse migrant workforce that built the community.

The 20 shaft disaster honours the memory and impact of the tragic mining accidents.

Medical benefits explores Wonthaggi’s ground-breaking, community-led healthcare system, and early mining conditions documents the harsh realities faced by the town’s early under-ground miners.

The four themes represent a fraction of a massive preservation effort. The videos are part of a larger collection of 100 comprehensive interviews commissioned by the Mining and Energy Union to ensure the voices of the working class are never forgotten.

The project features deeply personal accounts from well-known local identities including Reg Wilson, Danny Carr, Sam Gatto and Irene Williams. The series also features poignant footage of the late Ella Andrighetto, preserving her valuable memories for future generations. Through their eyes, audiences will experience the camaraderie, danger and social fabric of a bygone era.

The videos will be available in the near future to see on the Society’s Touchscreen and website.

Follow the link to see the videos :-

https://why-documentaries.digitalpigeon.com/shr/9y3pkBOHEfGp1QLqAlyoRQ/z66bS-GDw5OpcKLgUm6Qww