In the early 1850s, the discovery of gold in Victoria drew thousands to places like Ballarat in search of fortune. Amidst strict licensing fees and terrible living conditions – and as the gap grows between the haves and the have-nots – prospector Peter Lalor (Chips Rafferty) assumes leadership of the Ballarat Reform League and leads a rebellion against the state government. 

At the time of production, Eureka Stockade ranked among the most expensive films shot in Australia. This ‘Australian Western’ contributed to keeping the legend of the Eureka Stockade alive in the national memory.  

Presented in partnership with Canberra Writers Festival. 

Join us for a post-screening discussion with Professor Clare Wright OAM, award-winning historian, broadcaster and author of The Forgotten Rebels of Eureka. The discussion will be moderated by The Australian film critic Stephen Romei. 

Presented on 35mm film prints from the NFSA collection.