The Dreadnought Scheme

From 1911 to 1939, the Dreadnought Scheme brought thousands of British boys to Australia as farm apprentices. Known as the "Dreadnought Boys," they overcame challenges and played a crucial role in Australia's development, with many serving in both World Wars. Their legacy continues to shape the nation today.

In 1909, as part of a contribution to the naval defense of the British Empire, New South Wales established a fund to purchase a Dreadnought Cruiser for the Royal Navy. However, when the formation of the Royal Australian Navy made the purchase unnecessary, the funds were repurposed to initiate the Dreadnought Scheme—a farm apprenticeship program aimed at bringing British youths to Australia.

The Dreadnought Scheme was launched with the arrival of the first contingent of boys aboard the S.S. Tanui in April 1911. Over the following decades, from 1911 to 1939, a total of 5,595 "Dreadnought Boys" arrived in Sydney to begin their new lives. These boys, aged between 14 and 19, were recruited to work as farm labourers, and the scheme was designed to provide them with apprenticeships in agriculture. The original requirement was that the boys be over 17 and of good character and physique—"strapping young fellows," as one advertisement put it. After World War I, the minimum age was lowered to 15, with some boys as young as 14 participating.

The program was seen as a way to "fill Australia's empty spaces" with young Anglo-Saxon stock, and the boys were envisioned as contributing to the country's agricultural development. However, many went on to pursue a wide range of occupations, some achieving significant leadership roles in their communities. They faced hardships in their new country, but those who survived the experience often looked back on their youthful venture with a sense of accomplishment and belonging in their adopted land.

Many of the Dreadnought Boys also served in the armed forces during both World Wars, with some making the ultimate sacrifice for their new home. Today, while few of the original Dreadnought Boys remain, their stories continue to be valued. The Dreadnought Association regularly holds meetings, primarily attended by the families of these boys, and efforts to preserve their history are ongoing.

David Parker, a key figure in preserving the legacy of the Dreadnought Boys, notes that much work remains to be done. However, thanks to the efforts of the Dreadnought Association and ongoing academic research, a clearer picture of the boys' stories and their impact on Australia is emerging. Oral histories and official records have been published, including the book They Passed This Way, ensuring that the contributions of these young men are remembered.

A plaque in Sydney commemorates the arrival of the Dreadnought Boys and their significant role in shaping Australia’s development. Despite their initial hardships, these young men played a vital part in the growth of the nation, and their legacy endures to this day.

If you're searching for someone who arrived in Australia between 1911 and 1939 and believe they may have been part of the Dreadnought Scheme, we may be able to assist.

We hold a folder of records from the original Dreadnought Scheme and can help look up names and, in some cases, additional information such as ship details, arrival date, and the farm where they were placed.

Contact: legacy@bbm.asn.au