Bringing your love to life - for 75 years
Since 1950, people like you have been caring for others through ALWS.
Let’s celebrate together the changes
you’ve brought to so many lives!
Celebrating 75 years... supporting 75,000 Children
When ALWS began 75 years ago, war-scarred people from Europe needed new places to live, and Australia needed new workers … and so began a 20 year exodus of more than 300,000 people to Bonegilla Migrant Centre near Albury.
The journey from Europe took weeks. Arriving at Port Melbourne, weary families then boarded a train for the rattly 8 hour journey to Bonegilla – just a few lights in a siding in a paddock. These people looking for a better life must have wondered where they’d ended up!
Yet you were there, welcoming them with open arms. Helping them find their feet.
75 years later, you still help vulnerable people find their feet. Supporting farmers in Burundi. Helping refugee children in Kenya go to school. Caring for Ukrainian families fleeing war.
Supporting 75,000 Children
In 2025, we want to celebrate our 75th Anniversary by supporting 75,000 children with the essentials for a happy, healthy life – food, school and safety.
We need your help to bring care and love to these children.
Whether you step out at ALWS Walk My Way, support a walker, or give a generous 75th gift, you will help 75,000 children step up to the life every child deserves.
“And whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.” Jesus (Matthew 18:5)
Get Involved
Register and set up a fundraising page for one of our face-to-face events.
Read more about the blessing you’ve provided through ALWS for 75 years.
Your ALWS Legacy
Your compassion and care for the most vulnerable started at Bonegilla in 1950.
Read on to hear stories of sizzling heat, snakes – and safety.
'I remember the kindnesses'
Margrit Friebel (nee Schmidt) shares her memories of fur coats, freedom, and fear of long drop loos!
Sliding in socks
Kathryn Henschtke recalls roof possums, riding bikes, and rowdy Thursday night drinks.
'The language of love'
Here you'll find more memories of Bonegilla. Watch out for red-bellied blacks and Red Rattler trains!
Side by side for 75 years
When ALWS began 75 years ago, it was so our Lutheran family could walk alongside people in need.
Donate
Meet the people you help. Hear from ALWS partners who take your support to those who need it.
Learn more about how you’ve cared for others for 75 years!
