The onset of the Depression causes many shantytowns to be built in and around Newcastle. Probably for the first time white people hardest hit by the Depression are forced to live alongside Aboriginal people. They witness the hardship of existence that is an everyday norm for Aboriginal people. In places like Newcastle this helps some people to develop a greater awareness and appreciation of what Aboriginal people are forced to endure. One area in particular at Waratah has a large Aboriginal population. This area takes on the name of its former owner and becomes known as Platt's estate. Dozens of Aboriginal families live on Platt's estate and remain there for decades after the end of the Depression” (Maynard, Muloobinbah, 2001)