Antarctica 1948

1949, 24 Minutes. Exempt from classification.

This black-and-white film was made as a record of operations of the Australian National Research Expedition to Antarctica, from November 1947 to April 1948. It follows the journeys of two exploration ships as they sail with men and supplies from Australia to Antarctica to set up the first permanent scientific stations on both Heard and Macquarie Islands.

It begins with the naval ship LST 3501 departing Fremantle and follows her stormy ocean crossing, difficult landing, and the construction of the permanent huts which are to house 15 men for 15 months. Using flying boats such as the Walrus and the Kingfisher, the men are able to send out reconnaissance parties to determine the route ahead. The film also depicts the voyage of the Wyatt Earp from Melbourne to Antarctica and back via Macquarie Island, observing scientific work on board, as well as the stunning Antarctic landscape and wildlife.

An Australian National Film Board Production. © 2011 National Film and Sound Archive of Australia.