Leslie Pulham

Ship name / Flight number: Jervis Bay

Arrival date: 14/12/1925

In 1925, Leslie Pulham embarked on a voyage from the UK to Australia aboard the Jervis Bay, a journey that would shape his life in ways he could never have imagined. Like many young men of his time, Leslie’s migration was driven by hardship. Born into a large family, he was the youngest child, arriving at a time when economic struggles meant there were simply “too many mouths to feed.” Seeking opportunity and a better future, he left behind his homeland for the promise of work in Australia.

Leslie found employment on several farms, working the land alongside other young migrants. Among them was Harland Dunkley, who had also arrived on the Jervis Bay. It is believed that Harland, like Leslie, eventually returned to the UK.

For Leslie, the call of home proved too strong. The Great Depression had taken hold and with family struggling back in England, he made the difficult decision to return. His elder brother and sister-in-law had followed him to Australia not long after his arrival but things had not worked out for them. That may be another reason why he returned, feeling the pull of family and responsibility.

Back in the UK, Leslie took on various jobs before finding a new calling as a Christian minister. He served in Burnley, Lancashire during World War II, offering guidance and support in a time of uncertainty and loss. Eventually, he moved back to London where he built a new life and in time met and married his wife.

Though his time in Australia was brief, Leslie’s story reflects the resilience and adaptability of the young men who set out across the world in search of opportunity. His journey was not just about migration – it was about family, duty and ultimately finding his place in the world.