Bomaderry Aboriginal Children's Home, Historic child welfare institution in Bomaderry, New South Wales, Australia.
Bomaderry Aboriginal Children's Home is a historic child welfare institution in New South Wales, Australia. The complex features multiple buildings constructed between 1908 and 1980, including dormitories and residential cottages arranged across approximately 9 acres of grounds.
The home was established in 1908 by the United Aborigines Mission and became the first and longest-operating Aboriginal children's institution in New South Wales. It closed as a functioning children's home in 1988.
The site reflects the painful impact of government policies that separated Aboriginal children from their families throughout the 20th century. Walking through the buildings, visitors encounter the physical spaces where this separation was carried out.
The property now serves as offices for the Nowra Local Aboriginal Land Council and remains listed on the New South Wales State Heritage Register. Visitors should check ahead about access, as entry may be limited depending on council activities.
One of the institution's most notable residents was Harry Penrith, who later became known as Burnum Burnum from the Woiworung and Yorta Yorta communities. He went on to become a prominent Aboriginal activist following his departure from the home.
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