Colour television officially arrived in Australia on 1 March 1975, a day widely promoted as C-Day.
The launch was a major technological and cultural milestone. Networks marked the occasion with special broadcasts designed to show off vivid hues and improved picture quality.
On the ABC, a memorable highlight was a specially produced five-minute promotional skit, Aunty Jack Introduces Colour, featuring Aunty Jack battling a “colour monster” — and making ABC the first station to broadcast colour pictures as the clock struck midnight.
ABC also kicked off the first full day of colour with a special edition of Countdown and other celebratory programming that showcased music and performances in vivid new hues. Scroll down to see the Countdown episode.
Commercial networks marked C-Day with branded slogans — such as “Seven colours your world” on Seven, “Living Colour” on Nine, and “First in Color” on the 0-10 Network — and updated station logos to reflect the transition.
Many channels stayed on air overnight for the switchover, airing special segments and movies in colour once the clock struck 12 am.
Although colour sets were expensive at first, demand was strong. Major events, including sport and variety programs, quickly embraced the new format, encouraging households to upgrade. Retailers reported a surge in television sales in the months leading up to C-Day. Within a few years, colour had become the norm rather than the novelty.
The shift to colour not only enhanced entertainment but also changed advertising, production design and audience expectations, firmly modernising Australia’s television industry.
Countdown – first colour episode – 1 March 1975:
Horror Movie – Skyhooks
Things to Do – Johnny Farnham
I’ll Go Mine – Sherbet
Being Green – Denise Drysdale
Guitar Band – Stevie Wright
Give it Love – Linda George
You’re My World – Darryl Braithwaite
C’mon We’re Taking Over – Hush
Boogieman’s Gonna Getcha – Debbie Byrne
Wangaratta Wahine – The Captain Matchbox Whoopee Band
Touch Me – Ray Burgess
My Little Angel – William Shakespeare
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