Frontier Australia

2012, Total Running Time: 69 Minutes

This compilation of six films spans over half a century of Northern Territory history. It includes The Story of Port Darwin Parts 1 & 2; From Out of the Ashes: Amateur filmmaker Victor Tarhanoff's silent films are the earliest known colour footage of Darwin. They are an historical record of the city before and after the Japanese bombing in 1942, when the frontline of World War II came to Australia. Added music and sound effects combine to enhance the atmosphere.

Darwin - Doorway to Australia: In 1949 Darwin was the first port of call for all planes flying into Australia from Europe and Asia. This black & white film shows life in Darwin, much ravaged by Japanese attack during World War II, but already showing signs of recovery. It also explores an incipient tourist industry that promotes Indigenous culture.

North of the Centre: A seductive, colour documentary about the Northern Territory that gives a taste of the multicultural way of life of Territorians and the many tourist attractions on offer, including Chinese New Year celebrations and barefoot crocodile hunting.

Australian Biography: Lily Ah Toy: Born in 1917, Lily Ah Toy lived an extraordinary life as a Northern Territory pioneer.

© 2011 National Film and Sound Archive of Australia.