Australia in Colour

6.0

2019•50m

Told through a unique collection of iconic archival footage brought to life in stunning colour for the very first time, Australia in Colour tells the story of how Australia came to be what it is today. Narrated by Hugo Weaving, the series is a reflection on our nation’s character, its attitudes, its politics and its struggle to value its Indigenous and multicultural past. Australia in Colour gives us a chance to look at Australia’s history from a fresh perspective. This four-part series curates classic historical footage, as well as home movies and never-before-seen archival material to chart how Australia has developed as a nation. From the oldest surviving footage captured in Australia – in 1896 in Sydney’s Prince Alfred Park – to the beginning of colour television in the mid-1970s, each sequence has been lovingly restored and colourised with historical accuracy. The effect is remarkable, bringing to light history that is both shared and deeply personal.

Seasons

4 Episodes • Premiered 2019

A look at pivotal moments in Australia's history from 1900 to 1970, through the use of cutting-edge technology which colourises black and white archive footage.

1. Outpost of Empire

Explore Australia's history from 1897 to 1929, including explorer Douglas Mawson, swimmer Annette Kellerman, and the men fighting in WWI.

2. Shifting Allegiances

Explores how sport and comedy offered relief from the hunger of the Great Depression, at least until the outbreak of war.

3. Populate Or Perish

Indigenous people must deal with racism and discrimination, and their children are removed, creating the stolen generations.

4. The Decade Of Protest

The public supports Australia's efforts in the Vietnam War, until the toll becomes apparent; awareness rises about discrimination and racism against Indigenous people.