Storyteller inspires next generation at Youth Week Workshop in Paterson

EMERGING filmmaker and local historian, Jacob Ure, 24, shared his unique approach to uncovering and telling hidden local stories at a Youth Week workshop held on Sunday in Paterson.

Invited by Paterson Community Builders, Jacob – the creator of local history platform Our Past – delivered an engaging session focused on how he creates compelling, history-based social media content that brings overlooked places and stories to life.

Workshop participants were given insight into his creative process, including how to identify a story, research effectively, and present it in a way that resonates with modern audiences online.

“History doesn’t have to feel distant or academic,” Jacob said.

“It can be immediate, personal, and something anyone can connect with, especially when shared through platforms people use every day.”

Jacob used the ‘Famous Paterson River Orange’ as a fantastic example of a story subject that the Paterson community could tell.

Jacob’s latest documentary project, Children of the Home Front, aims to preserve the memories of Australians who experienced World War II as children.

During the war, thousands of Australian children lived through rationing, air raid drills, blackouts, and the absence of family members serving overseas.

These experiences, often remembered from classrooms, homes, and small communities, form an important but under-recorded part of Australia’s history.

This project seeks to capture their stories before they are lost.

Jacob is currently inviting contributions from individuals who remember life in Australia during WWII.

“These are deeply personal stories that deserve to be preserved,” Jacob said.

“They help us understand not just the war, but what it meant to grow up during that time.”

Community members who would like to share their memories, or know someone who can, are encouraged to get in touch via the online contact form or by emailing jacob@ourpast.au