With a deserved focus on women in sport and national identity wrought by the Matildas, it is appropriate to consider an historical perspective. 2024 is an Olympic year, and what better time to consider the track taken by Australian girls and women in the six decades from our earliest film of sporting events in 1896 to the extraordinary achievements of our women's team at the Melbourne Olympics of 1956. 

There is much to consider: Costume as an inhibiter to women’s physical activities, Custom that saw laws against mixed bathing; and for too long, a distinct lack of acknowledgment of women’s real sporting prowess.

There is surviving film footage of pioneer advocate for physical fitness, Annette Kellerman. There are galloping girls of the bush. There are newsreel items of women rowers and footballers and athletes, hampered by sexist and joking commentary. However, there are also images that reveal the ongoing endeavours and achievements of our women in sport and physical activities giving them a deserved place in Australia’s Social History.

Session to be presented by Marilyn Dooley.