The Hennik family arrived in Fremantle, Western Australia, aboard SS Zuiderkruis on 17 February 1959. They subsequently travelled by train to the Woodside Migrant Camp near Adelaide, South Australia, where they began their new lives in Australia.

The family’s surviving documents include a passenger and crew list bearing signatures from people aboard the ship, together with a document carried by the family’s father during the voyage. These records, preserved by his daughter Wilhelmina, provide a personal glimpse into the family’s migration experience.

The photographs below document aspects of the voyage, including departure from the Netherlands and life aboard Zuiderkruis.

Departure the Netherlands
Front deck Zuiderkruis
Sports deck Zuiderkruis

With thanks to Wilhelmina van Hennik

See also:

Dutch immigrant ships to Australia

Dutch immigrant ship Johan van Oldenbarnevelt

Dutch immigrant ship Willem Ruys

Dutch immigration to Australia, stats and other resources

Dutch Emigration Ships to Australia – Research Portal

SS Zuiderkruis – From Victory troopship to Dutch emigration ship

See other personal stories.