Shopkeeper from Bargoed

Giovanni Lusardi was born in Bardi (Parma) Italy on the 25th January 1897.  He and his wife Maria lived at 2 Upper High Street, Bargoed, South Wales. Giovanni was working as a shopkeeper when he was arrested on the 10th June 1940. Giovanni and Maria had two children Teresina and Luigi.

While in Tatura Camp 2A, Victoria, Giovanni was sent to the Mooroopna Hospital (31st March 1943 – 9th April 1943) and the 28 Australian Camp Hospital Waranga (27th April 1943 – 1st May 1943).

On the 16th May 1944, Giovanni was released to work with the Civil Aliens Corps in forestry. Giovanni's Leave Application below highlights that unlike 'internment' working with the Civil Aliens Corps afforded the men the opportunity to take time off and leave the camp. It also notes that at the time he was working at Camp 3 Peechelba.

On the 20th November 1944, he wrote a letter of complaint to Civil Aliens Corps authorities complaining about his treatment by Dr Davies during a medical appointment. Giovanni stated that he had always worked conscientiously but after two serious haemorrhages with days off work for recovery, he was advised by the foreman to see a doctor. Dr Davies did not examine him in the appointment, told him he should eat less and worker harder and declared him fit for work. 

After his internment of nearly four years and not having a ‘voice’, Giovanni exercised his right to voice his unfair and unprofessional treatment. His complaint was taken seriously, as similar complaints had been lodged and Dr Davies was known for little record keeping. Giovanni received a reply stating that the matter was to be taken up with the Forestry Officer and the Referee Doctor by the Civil Aliens Corps Personnel Officer Mr Frogley.

 On the 6th February 1945, he embarked the Athlone Castle in Sydney for his return voyage home to the UK.  The ship docked in Liverpool, England on the 29th March 1945.  Giovanni returned home to 2 Upper High Street, Bargoed, South Wales.  On the 1st June 1979, Giovanni died, aged 82 years.