For the first time in about two decades, the 1985 film Burke and Wills was shown in wide-screen format in a theatre at the National Gallery of Victoria on Friday 20 August 2010.

Guests enjoyed a cocktail party before the screening, which was introduced by actor Jack Thompson, who told us the story of how he was invited to play the part of Burke, and explained the particular importance the Burke and Wills story has for him, because of a poem written by his father John Thompson. His reading of the poem was very moving and a great scene-setter for the movie. Those who have seen the video version that is still available in the occasional video store agree that there is no comparison between it and the full wide-screen version. Further indication of this was provided by Jack Thompson, who was quite emotional after seeing the screening.

The copy shown on Friday is a DVD created from a 16mm print of the film. The NFSA is planning to re-master the 35mm version as part of their regular program of preserving historic Australian films.

Below are pictures of guests enjoying the cocktail party or tucking into the Burke and Wills ration packs at interval.