Overview

Seventy years ago, in February 1955, Maitland experienced one of its most significant floods, submerging homes, businesses, and surrounding towns. While its impact on flood mitigation is well known, this talk explores lesser-known stories of how newly arrived migrants experienced the disaster.

Join Dr Gretel Evans for a fascinating talk, reflecting on these stories and the ongoing significance of flood memories.
The talk will include time for visitors to enjoy canapes, ask questions of Dr. Evans and view the exhibit “Flood Level 1955” which will be concurrent in the building.

After World War II, many Displaced Persons settled in Maitland and the Greta Migrant Camp, unaware of flood risks. Their recollections reveal how they learned from neighbours and how the community came together in the aftermath. For some, the flood triggered memories of wartime trauma, shaping their sense of place and belonging.

Dr. Gretel Evans is a historian specialising in migration, environment, and disasters, interviewed Maitland migrants about the 1955 flood. She is currently a Research Fellow at Monash University, studying disaster resilience after the 2019–20 bushfires.