Clip description
A stationary train sits on the tracks while workers carry out maintenance. Intertitles and a map show the route across the Nullarbor, followed by shots of sparsely occupied landscape. From on board the train, Alma films houses, red dirt and an endless flat horizon as the train travels from Kalgoorlie towards Port Pirie. One of the many Indigenous communities living along the line is shown as the train stops at Ooldea Station. Some of them sell souvenirs to the travellers passing through.
Curator’s notes
The intertitle describing 'pitable beings unable to adapt themselves to the White Peoples mode of living’ (sic) reveals Alma’s view of Indigenous Australians – or 'native peoples’, as he refers to them. It would be nearly 30 years after this film was made before Indigenous Australians were recognised as Australian citizens. The communities living along the Nullarbor were obviously a novelty for travellers riding on the Trans-Australian Railway, as shown in this clip. Alma films faces in close-up to illustrate his views.