Brief History of Migrant Workers Hostels and Camps in Wollongong Post World War 2
The Metropolitan Water, Sewerage & Drainage Board was amongst the first employers to offer to employ displaced persons from Baltic countries as soon as they became available in 1948. Hence the Water Board migrant camp in Coniston became known locally as the ‘Balts Camp’.
Karingal Hostel constructed at Cringila in 1948 by Australian Iron & Steel for its migrant workforce employed at the Steelworks in Port Kembla.
Steelhaven Hostel located in Warrawong. Acquired by Australian Iron & Steel in 1949 for its migrant workforce employed at the Steelworks in Port Kembla.
Unanderra Hostel located on Five Islands Road at Unanderra originally constructed by the Commonwealth Government to accommodate Displaced Persons Migrants employed in the heavy industries in the Wollongong-Port Kembla area.
Balgownie/Fairy Meadow Hostel located on Squires Way Fairy Meadow constructed by the Commonwealth Government commenced operations in 1951.
Berkeley Hostel constructed by the Commonwealth Government commenced operations in 1951.
Not well known and often overlooked, a migrant hostel with a difference was located at Helensburgh.