The JvO Migrant tales: The story of seaman Henk Vrolijks

In 1958, Henk Vrolijks worked as a seaman on the migrant ship 'Johan van Oldenbarnevelt' and travelled around the world in 81 days. Henk (86) reminisces about his work on board, his time on the ship, and his first impression of Australia. He also has a moving story about his friend and colleague who drowned in the swimming pool, and nearly got a burial at sea.

In 1958, Henk Vroijks worked on the migrant ship Johan van Oldenbarnevelt.

This interview is in English.

The Johan van Oldenbarnevelt was a well-known Dutch migrant ship. In the 50s and 60s of the last century, more than a hundred thousand people made the big crossing to Australia with this ship. In our series 'The JvO: Migrant Stories', Dutch Australians reminisce about their time on 'de Johan'.

Did you also travel to Australia on the 'Johan van Oldenbarnevelt', and do you have a special story you would like to share with the community? Contact us by email and mention JvO in the subject line.

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