Polish Immigration to AustraliaPolish settlement in Australia began in the early 19th century, when a Polish convict arrived in the colony of Port Phillip - a small number of people of Polish descent followed, mainly Polish nobility and army officers. Of the most notable was Sir Paul Edmund Strzelecki in 1839 - he was the cartographer, explorer and scientist who named Mt Kosciuszko. There are about 20 geographical features in Australia bearing his name (for example, the Strzelecki Ranges).
In the 1850's, a significant Polish settlement was established north of Adelaide, known as Polish Hill River. The community maintained traditional Polish language, customs and traditions. A polish church was established and Polish was taught at the local schools. Eventually, the community dispersed and integrated into the wider community. However, the most significant influx of Polish settlement in Australia began following World War 2.
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