The Dutch seafarer, Abel Tasman, is recognised as the first European to land, in December 1642, on the island that now bears his name. In the last 50 to 60 years, thousands of Dutch settlers and their descendants have been making a rich contribution to Tasmanian society. Dutch heritage in Read more
In October 1951 Dirk Bolt migrated from his native Groningen, the Netherlands, to Kingston, Tasmania, Australia, where he married Guusje (Kusha) van der Laan in January 1953. In 1964 they moved to Canberra. From 1971 onward, they moved to various places in response to a series of international appointments Read more
The Dutch migrant community that developed around Penguin on Tasmania’s north-west coast during the years following the Second World War played an important role in the wider history of Dutch settlement in Tasmania. The community provided accommodation, employment contacts, religious fellowship and practical assistance to newly arrived migrants. Some families Read more
Introduction Dutch settlement in Ulverstone and the surrounding districts of Tasmania’s north-west coast developed significantly during the years following the Second World War. Families arriving from the Netherlands established new lives through employment in agriculture, construction, retailing and other local industries. Many encountered difficulties with language, housing and recognition of Read more
Shaping Kingston – The story of God’s children in Kingston especially focussing on the Reformed Church – written by Historian Kees Wierenga – $40 plus postage Copies of this book are held by the State Library of Tasmania. Copies may also be obtained from the author, as noted above. The Read more
7 Mar 1926 – 10Jul 2017 Elly with her brothers Reg and Max In May 1950, a group of 10 men, and their wives, met in the residence of Eerke van der Laan in the city of Groningen. They had met several times before, and during the war years had Read more
We praise God for the life and witness ofBart Jan Folkerts18 September 1911 to 24 October 1999 An Association [Christian Parent-Controlled Schools] Founder and Gold Member“Now with the Lord he loved and served … a man of strength,courage and determination, a fighter for what he believed in.” “My Grace is Read more
George Huizing 8/9/1938 – 27/12/2016 A newspaper clipping on my desk reminds of the last time I saw George. The clipping concerns a lost property title, in the parish of Lorainah. Property belonging to JKF von Schmidt. I quickly dropped an email to the owner – “where is Lorainah?” JKF, Read more
Due to changing times and ageing volunteers, and lack of interest amongst the next generation, the Dutch-Australian Society ‘Abel Tasman” (DAS) faded away in the years 2012 – 2015. The strength and commitment to be involved in community events waned. Sinterklaas decided it was too far to come. However, the Read more
From the Netherlands to Tasmania The Sypkes family made a significant contribution to Tasmania’s post-war economic development, particularly through the introduction of self-service supermarkets, discount retailing, property development and investment in technology businesses. The family’s Australian story began with Engel Sypkes (1921–2015), who migrated from the Netherlands to Tasmania in Read more