Memorial to the Migrant Children is a poignant tribute to the British and Maltese boys and girls who embarked on a journey to Western Australia in search of a new beginning. The life-size bronze statue of a young boy and girl carrying their worldly possessions symbolizes the experiences of nearly 3,000 unaccompanied child migrants who arrived in Western Australia over a span of more than 50 years. This memorial, unveiled on Human Rights Day in 2004, serves as a reminder of the contributions made by these former child migrants to the fabric of Western Australian society and history.
Between 1947 and 1953, over 3,200 children migrated to Australia under approved schemes, with around 100 of them hailing from Malta and the rest from the United Kingdom. The Commonwealth and State governments, along with voluntary and religious organizations, played a role in providing housing and support for these child migrants. The memorial, jointly funded by the Commonwealth and Western Australia Governments, honors the resilience and enduring legacy of these young migrants who overcame hardships to enrich Australian society as parents, workers, and citizens.
Commissioned by the Department of Community Development in Western Australia, the “Commemorative Sculpture to the Migrant Children” was completed and dedicated in 2005. Sculpted by Charles Smith and Joan Walsh-Smith, this memorial stands as a testament to the bravery and sacrifices of the British and Maltese child migrants who ventured into the unknown to build a better future in Australia. The dedication and passion of the family behind this project, led by Kent Watson and supported by Diane Watson, Mrs. Norma McGuffie, Wilai Watson, and Geoff Watts, ensure that the stories and contributions of these child migrants are preserved for future generations.
