SnapShots

In History

Here are some historical examples that represent Australians over 50 from pre-1900 to 2000 in a visual and written format. We have selected an image from each decade to illustrate how images of the Australian community over 50 have evolved.

Journey back through time to view: what was worn, what activities the community were participating in and what films or television shows were on. How things have changed! To see each image on a larger scale, simply click on the image and you will be taken to a new page. From there you can select 'Go back to SnapShots in History' to come back to this page.

Image	Description
	pre 1900's Images at this time appeared in newspapers and other publications in the form of drawings and early photographs. Note the fashion of boots and frilly petticoats; certainly a woman working away at her domestic duties!
	1900’s Cards were, and still are, a popular leisure activity for both men and women. This ingenious style of cheating presents us with an amusing look into life during this period.
	1910’s The tea party! This illustrates the formality of social life with the posture of the ladies, and the fashions still providing full coverage.
	1920’s The famous flat cap that is a fashion recycled today. The wise "gentleman" with his grandchild.
	1930’s We just had to include this stereotypical image of the older lady on a rocking chair. Could you put any more patterns in the one room? Don’t forget too, the classic wood panelled walls.
	1940’s During World War Two, women working and volunteering became the back-bone of the Australian community. These women are working for the Red Cross preparing hand made toys.
	1950's The post World War Two migration to Australia brought many people over 50 and their families from other countries such as England, Italy, Greece and Yugoslavia.
	1960’s Known as the six o’clock swill, the working class men would go straight from work to the bar to catch a few drinks before the six o’clock closure time of pubs in Australia.
	1970's 'Number 96' the Australian comedy known as the television show that first brought a lot of topics such as nudity and homosexuality to the Australian public arena. This was the show that was watched by many but often not admittedly!!
	1980's And finally an image of an active Australian over 50, competing in the Sydney City to Surf fun-run, a popular event for all generations which began back in 1971.
	1990's Ruth Cracknell’s character Rose, in Spider and Rose breaks the stereotype that once you reach a certain age, life is over. Her character continues to jump the hurdles and adventures of life. Rose also forms a strong friendship with a younger man, Spider, who was hired by Rose's son as a carer. A great Australian film and a positive message for all people.