The Dutch aircraft manufacturer Fokker has maintained a significant presence in Australian aviation history, from pioneering flights in the early 20th century to modern-day operations. This article explores the evolution of Fokker’s involvement in Australia, highlighting key milestones and the Read more
While walking through Roma Street Parkland, just next to where we live in Brisbane, I stopped once again at the Netherlands – Netherlands East Indies Memorial. It’s a peaceful and thoughtfully designed place, set amidst the gardens, and a rare Read more
By Peter Reynders For some time, I have argued that the proper English translation of the first European geographic name given to part of Australia is “Cape Return,” not “Cape Turn Again” or any of the other variants that have Read more
In 1920, several major Dutch shipping companies joined forces to create the Vereenigde Nederlandsche Scheepvaartmaatschappij (United Netherlands Shipping Company), known by its initials VNS. Their aim was to streamline operations and strengthen global maritime links — including important routes to Read more
A major maritime discovery has brought to light a remarkable episode in Dutch-Australian history. In March 2025, after more than 160 years hidden beneath the shifting sands of Long Beach near Robe, South Australia, the wreck of the Koning Willem Read more
scroll down for: New research challenges the Batavia mutiny narrative The Batavia – 1629 The Batavia, built in Amsterdam in 1628 was the company’s new flagship, she sailed that year on her maiden voyage for Batavia. On 4 June 1629, Read more
Author: J.A. Hempel (Jan Andrzej Hempel)Published: 1960Publisher: Department of Demography, Australian National UniversityLength: 100 pages Overview: This publication is a demographic and sociological study of Dutch post-war migrants in Queensland, Australia. It was part of a broader research program undertaken Read more
Founded in 1950 by Dutch immigrants led by Henk Beumer, the Windmills Soccer Club began as a recreational outlet for the local Dutch community in Perth. The club was accepted into the Third Division of the Western Australian Soccer Football Read more
In the early days of the Pacific War, one ship with strong Dutch connections played a crucial role in the shifting Allied strategy — the M.S. Bloemfontein. Her journey across the Pacific, her arrival in Brisbane, and her later transformation Read more
YEAR NAVIGATORS VESSELS LOCATIONS KEY EVENTS KEY REFERENCES 1616 Dirk Hartog Eendracht Dirk Hartog Island 1st recorded sighting of west coast of Australia. Arrived 25 October, sailed 27 October. Left Hartog Plate. Major pp.ixxxi-xxxiv; Heeres pp.8-10 1618 Haevik Claesz. van Read more