The collection comprises correspondence, photographs, publications and manuscripts, an early note book, sketch book, a handmade children's book, an illustrated autograph book and newspaper cuttings. The letters, mainly written during World War II, that include letters from the poet, writer and editor Nancy Keesing and journalist, travel writer and novelist Ernestine Hill, provide insights into life in 1940s Sydney and include references to the Sydney Short Story Club of which Gertrude and Nancy were active members.