The Australian Gazette was typical of multi-part silent newsreels, with a mix of serious and lighter news coverage, that kept people at home informed during the First World War.

Despite the war raging in Europe, communities still congregated to celebrate and enjoy themselves.

Conscription was introduced by law in New Zealand. However, Australians were able to vote on introducing conscription in a referendum in October 1916.

The arrival of a shipment of US films in Sydney in 1916 confirmed that Hollywood had won Australian hearts.

The sombre 1915 funeral procession of Major-General Sir William Bridges, killed in action at the Dardenelles. Filmed in Melbourne after Bridges’ body arrived home months after his death.

Many of the factory’s workers are women, symbolising a community united in the war effort and highlighting women’s vital contributions on the home front.

What did Australians watch at their local cinema during the First World War?

Canadian-American silent film star Mary Pickford was one of the world’s most popular movie stars during the First World War.

In Seven Keys to Baldpate, a silent film based on a stage farce, a struggling novelist undertakes to write a novel during 24 hours in the Baldpate Inn.

This two-minute clip is taken from the Australian-made 1916 silent comedy Officer 666, based on a Broadway play. The director, Fred Niblo, also stars as millionaire Travers Gladwin.