Lake Macquarie History

Sonia Gonzalez

photo: sonia gonzalez

Leaving family and friends behind in her homeland of Chile, Sonia Gonzalez immigrated with her husband and three small children. The family left the dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet to establish a new life in the democracy of Australia.

Initially settling in Sydney, work was not easily come by. Sonia's husband was offered work in Perth, but decided the distance from their established home in Sydney would put too much of a strain on family life. In the late 1990s Sonia and her husband followed their eldest daughter to the picturesque shores of Lake Macquarie. Sonia still visits her two brothers and extended family in Chile and although there has been positive changes in Chile, Lake Macquarie is now her home.

Acknowledgement of Country

We remember and respect the Ancestors who cared for and nurtured this Country. It is in their footsteps that we travel these lands and waters. Lake Macquarie City Council acknowledges the Awabakal people and Elders past, present and future.

Council acknowledges traditional custodians throughout Australia. We commit to listening deeply to and collaborating with First Peoples in our work.

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