Celebrating 200 Years - National Foundation for Australia-China Relations Project

This collection is a vital part of the “Two Centuries of Chinese Heritage in Western Australia” project, a community-driven project funded by the National Foundation for Australia-China Relations, an Australian government initiative.

Our goal is to engage members of the Chinese community in Western Australia and other interested individuals in contributing invaluable information, knowledge, and visual materials that celebrate the rich Chinese heritage in Western Australia.

Dedicated to documenting and showcasing the numerous contributions of the Chinese community to Western Australia’s history, culture, economy, and social fabric, this collection strives to co-create a substantive and accessible digital archive with the community. By inviting personal and family stories, photographs, oral histories, and other materials, we aim to capture the diversity and depth of the Chinese heritage in Western Australia.

“Celebrating 200 Years” is an open and evolving repository encouraging ongoing community participation and collaboration. It offers a unique platform for individuals and families to share their stories and materials, ensuring that the Chinese community's voices, images, and texts are preserved for future generations. This collection not only complements the historical records in the Anne Atkinson Collection but also illuminates contemporary narratives that continue to shape the identity of Western Australia.

We warmly invite you to explore and contribute to this vibrant collection. Whether by sharing your family’s history, donating photographs, or participating in interviews, your involvement can enrich our understanding of Western Australia’s broader history and celebrate the enduring legacy of its Chinese community.

The information and opinions expressed in this collection’s materials are those of the creators and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the National Foundation for Australia-China Relations and the University of Western Australia.

Collection summary: A community-driven collection preserving and celebrating the rich history of the Chinese community in Western Australia through a dynamic and accessible digital archive

Extent: This project is a continuous endeavour and, in many respects, will always remain a work in progress. We ask for viewers’ understanding of potential issues or gaps as we constantly update and expand this collection. In the spirit of the Chinese proverb, “众人拾柴火焰高” (Many hands make light work), we welcome ongoing contributions from the community. Your stories, photographs, and other materials are invaluable in building a richer and more comprehensive archive. If you wish to share your or your family’s stories, please do not hesitate to contact the project team at ChineseWA[at]uwa.edu.au.