New documentary showcases Fort Scratchley

Monday 23 April 2007

The producer of a new documentary on Fort Scratchley has welcomed the Australian Government's announcement of an additional $4 million funding for the historical site.

The history of Fort Scratchley and the battle to restore and protect it from vandalism, is the focus of a new documentary produced by a researcher at the University of Newcastle.

Ms Susan Kerrigan, Associate Lecturer in the Faculty of Science and Information Technology, produced the documentary Using Fort Scratchley as part of her PhD studies. The Fort has been the subject of community interest following recent attacks of vandalism and delays in restoration work.

Ms Kerrigan said the documentary was timely, as this Anzac Day marked the third anniversary of the closure of Fort Scratchley for repairs.

"Fort Scratchley is a site of national historical significance. This documentary includes never before seen oral histories, animation, photos and graphics to emphasise the historical and diverse usage of the site," said Ms Kerrigan.

"Of special interest is the 3D animation which recreates the night of the 8 June 1942, when a Japanese submarine attacked Newcastle. Fort Scratchley returned fire and is the only coastal defence military installation to have returned fire on an enemy vessel during war time," said Ms Kerrigan.

"Along with maritime, coal mining and military stories, the documentary also includes cultural accounts of traditional land owners, the Awabakal people, through sketches by convict artist Joseph Lycett."

Members of the Fort Scratchley Historical Society also feature in the documentary, which has been three years in the making.

The 50 minute documentary was funded by the University of Newcastle and Newcastle City Council. The 3D animations were created by four IT students from the University, the documentary was edited by Communication Honours student Kathy Freeman, and the music was written by local musician Mark Tinson.

It is expected that the documentary will be displayed at Fort Scratchley for tourists and visitors when the restoration work is complete.

For interviews: Susan Kerrigan on 02 4985 4517.

Editor's note: Images from the Using Fort Scratchley documentary are available from media@newcastle.edu.au or Susan.Kerrigan@newcastle.edu.au