Wagga Girls: A celebration of life, love and friendship at 38 Morrow St

Key Points

About the Project

This project preserves the stories of women who lived at 38 Morrow Street, Wagga Wagga – a boarding house and hostel that served hundreds of service women and young women of the district since 1939.

What it is:

• A community-led book of personal stories, photographs and memories
• Shaped entirely by the women who choose to share, not by the author
• A memoir for future generations, not a formal historical account
• Contributions of any kind are welcome – photos, written memories, word-of-mouth connections

Who’s behind it:

• Just me (Erin) for now! It’s currently self-funded, with grants being explored.
• No commercial agenda. Any proceeds go back into the local community
• Open to collaborators (editors, artists, designers) with strong ties to the Riverina region

Wagga Girls is a project was born out of a desire to give back to the community and uplift the voices of the women who paved the way for Wagga girls like me. The women who lived at 38 Morrow Street, Wagga Wagga deserve to have their stories told, and this is my small way of making sure they are not lost to time. The building has had a remarkable life since 1943, serving as a boarding house and hostel for hundreds of service women and young women of the district, and the people who passed through its doors are as much a part of its history as its walls.

This project is also open to collaboration from all corners of the community. From editorial support to artists, designers and beyond, there is a place for those who want to contribute their skills to something worthwhile. It is important to this project that all contributors have strong ties to the Riverina region, so that the authenticity of the work is honoured at every stage and the final book truly reflects the community it celebrates.