What Is Newcastle Generations of Pride?
Newcastle: Generations of Pride is a documentary film about the LGBTQI+ history of Newcastle Australia; told by those who lived it.
This film chronicles the lived experiences of Newcastle’s gay community across decades.
From the dark days of persecution to the bright moments of celebration; it captures the raw, honest, and powerful stories that have been passed down through generations – and some that have never been told until now.
These are local stories that mirror international experience. This is a film for the whole community.
Who Made It?
Newcastle: Generations of Pride was created by the Stories of Our Town team and launched at Bernie’s Bar (The famous Star Hotel) on the 11 December 2025 amid a crowd of tears and joy.
Our University of Newcastle Library assisted in the funding of the film, and provided archival historical film, oral histories, photographic and documentary sources from the Archives to assist in the telling the stories.
Thanks also to our co Executive Producer Dr Ann Hardy, and our stars John Witte (Hunter Rainbow History Group) and Dr Justin Ellis who provided the historical context of being gay in Newcastle through the lens of criminality and law.
Who’s In It?
Everyone!
“Silent” Stories Now Can Be Heard
This film has been a very important thing for the community, as these stories, until now, have been mostly “silent” in the archive of personal memories and lost to the wider world.
We can’t think of another town or city that has had such courageous people to share their lives on this level with their wider community, so we hope it is well received.
An Inspiration Of Courage For Our Times
The measure of this film is not in the number of YouTube clicks, (which at the time of writing in April 2026 has now clocked over 7,000 views) but in what it has meant for the local generations of LGBTIQ+ people in our regional communities.
Our thanks to Glenn and Tony, the Stories of Our Town guys who have created this thing, and all the people who participated in it. The stories of Helen Gollan and Sister Annie, in particular will bring tears to your eyes.
In what have been challenging times for many across the world, the people interviewed in this film are an inspiration, and we hope they provide strength and hope to you. Watch it and let us know what you think.
For More Information on the Stories of Of Town
https://hunterlivinghistories.com/category/stories-of-our-town/
Support the Stories of Town Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/storiesofourtown
To Make More Films
Best Wishes,
Executive Producers
Newcastle: Generations of Pride