Summary

Personal handwritten letter with envelope to Dick (Richard) Winnett, son of Richard and Edith Winnett in Cremorne, New South Wales (the postal address crossed out twice), from Hans Hukom in Surabaya, Indonesia (postmarked Maclaine, Watson & Co.), dated 7 February, 1965.

Among other things Hans thanks Dick for the photo of himself, and reminiscing about their short time together in Indonesia. He states that his mother has died, and how difficult it is to visit Australia. He mentions he is waiting for a Dutch visa, and that he does not want to remain in Indonesia. The letter includes a small portrait photograph of Hans (MM153594).

This is one of a collection of 40 documents and four photographs relating to the unsuccessful attempts by Hans Hukom, an Indonesian citizen, to migrate to Australia between 1968 and 1972.

Physical Description

One sheet folded at centre, handwriting on two halves.

Significance

Statement of Historical Significance:
Hans Hukom's documents provide an insight, at times frustrating and poignant, into one person's attempts to seek approval to immigrate, the vagaries of bureaucracy, and the likely influence of the White Australia policy in his ultimate lack of success, still officially in force at that time.

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