IN the great migration boom of the 1950s, many people made the long journey to Australia with their worldly possessions tucked neatly into a suitcase.
For Luigi Fotia and the Yarra Valley Italian Cultural Group, it was this imagery that formed the basis for a look at the early history of Italian-Australians in the region.
"Like my father, who migrated here in 1951, there are many people who have a story to tell, and we wanted to share these with the rest of the community," Mr Fotia said.
"These are everyday stories, from people of all walks of life, and we tried to involved as many people as possible."
The cultural group, made up of about 15 residents from the Italian community, started their collaborative effort about four years ago.
The book, titled Dreams from a Suitcase, has sold about 500 copies in Australia, the US and, of course, the homeland Italy.
It was also chosen from about 175 entries for a Victorian History Community Award in the category of best collaborative community work.
A follow-up to the book is now in the pipeline.
"Perhaps another book could look at these migrants' families - the experiences of the next generation," Mr Fotia said.
Cultural group secretary Maria McCarthy accepted the award on behalf of all the families who told their personal histories.
Evelyn MP Christine Fyffe said the group exemplified one of the reasons Italian migration to Australia was so successful.
"The stories are important because they explain how the migrant families blended elements of Australian culture with their own culture.
Dreams from a Suitcase is available from www.memoirsfoundation.org.au. The cost is $40.
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