Memories of air raid practice at school during World War II and a surreptitious taste of chewing gum inspired Queensland woman Joan Beddoe to compile a book of similar childhood recollections from around Australia.

The result Aussie Kids View WWII will be launched at the Brisbane office of the National Archives of Australia on Tuesday 26 June.

The book is a collection of personal childhood experiences on the home front during WWII. Compiled and edited by Joan Beddoe, the stories paint a personal picture of the times through the eyes of children.

‘There are contributions from 28 people in all states and territories, including from author Tim Bowden on his childhood memories of Tasmania,’ said Ms Beddoe who grew up in Melbourne.

‘Many of us remember the same things including rationing, air raid practice, search lights and gas producers. Gas producers were charcoal burning contraptions attached to cars which helped them run on less petrol.

‘I remember the gas producer on our car catching fire and we all had to jump out while my father put it out. Because there was so little petrol, there were very few cars on the road.’

The individuals’ memoirs are supported by photographs and news items from the time. Ms Beddoe chose the National Archives for the Brisbane book launch because of the extensive official records it holds on the war effort, including the records of ex-serviceman and of the home front.

‘We have preserved the records on rationing, manpower, and organisation of wartime industry which show how the government managed the home front during the war,’ said the National Archives Brisbane Director, David Swift. ‘But unfortunately, the personal recollections of those who experienced this time are slowly being lost. Joan’s efforts and the valuable contributions from the authors record the impact of war on the children of the day for current and future generations.’

The memories in Aussie Kids View WWII include rations, home trenches, siren drills, blackouts and salvage as well as absent fathers, refugee neighbours and, finally, victory. The book will be sold through the State Library bookshop and Macarthur Museum. Further information is available from books@practiceguides.com.au.

The book was launched at the National Archives Brisbane Office, 16 Corporate Drive, Cannon Hill at 6.00pm on Tuesday 26 June.