Launceston (1966) – Life in Australia Series

Blurb from NFSA Films

Come with us to spend a day in 1966 Launceston. This short film, shot by the Commonwealth Film Unit as part of the Life in Australia series, was an explicit appeal to potential immigrants and begins as a visitor to the city would, with aerial shots showing its position in the Tamar River valley, and a ride into town from the airport on the TAA bus.

Day is for industry: photogenic factories where ingenious machines are operated by expert hands; a thriving retail centre; orderly schools. Night is for neon, rock dancing, dinner dancing and the ballet. Leisure is plentiful: art galleries, historic homes, water sports, cycling and even archery beguile the time. Social bonds are formed at church and the agricultural show, and even the hospital is a place of smiles and flowers.

Despite a glimpse of a Buddhist statue, Life in Australia: Launceston is tailored to portray a certain model of ideal living that excludes dissent or difference: there is no mention of the city’s First Nations history, and class is elided in these crowds of happy, productive citizens enjoying life together.

For modern viewers, the lovingly shot details of vintage Launceston remain the film’s enduring interest and pleasure. We would love to hear from you in the comments if you have any information about the people or places in this film!

From the Film Australia Collection, National Film and Sound Archive of Australia – NFSA ID: 44007
Credits: Australian Commonwealth Film Unit
Directors: Peter Young and John Edwards
Producer: Eric Thompson
Cinematographers/Directors of Photography: Rodney Musch and Reginald Pearse

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