Contributed by Anthony Said. This story is part of a collection of stories from the Skola Maltija’s Maltese Migration Projects From Malta to Australia.

I interviewed Nanna Louise Vella

Where did you live in Malta?

I lived in Santa Lucia, Kercem, Gozo.

Tell me about your life before coming to Australia?

I used to go to school until the age of 18. In my spare time I used to help my dad in the farm. My dad had a lot of farmland, and he had a lot of work to do.

When did you leave Malta?

I left Malta on the 24th of February 1971.

How old were you when you left Malta?

21 years of age.

Why did you migrate to Australia?

I came to Australia as I met my husband who had already experienced what Australia was like. We got married and planned to come to live in Australia for 5 years. We started to have a family and we decided to stay longer and longer.

How did you travel here?

By aeroplane it felt like a very long trip because I was used to the small island of Gozo.

Where did you live when you first arrived in Australia?

Wentworthville, New South Wales.

What were your first impressions on Australia?

I didn’t like Australia at first because it was very different to Malta. Then I started to have my family and I got used to living in Australia.

What was your first job in Australia?

I used to work as a machinist at Bonds.

Is there anything else you would like to tell me?

Yes, I will never forget Malta as this is my birthplace and home. Australia is my home as well as I also have my family here.

Grazzi Nanna: thankyou

By Anthony Said
2011