Researching working dog film at the NFSA

Key facts

Institution

National Film and Sound Archive of Australia [source]

Starting resource

Public audiovisual catalogue [source]

Search the wider story

Use place names, rural industries, agricultural shows, stock work and filmmaker names alongside dog-related terms. A dog may appear within a film catalogued primarily under a station, region or farming practice. Record the catalogue identifier for every promising result rather than depending on a search-results URL.

Distinguish catalogue and footage

The NFSA provides a public catalogue for its audiovisual collection. A record establishes that an item is described there; it does not guarantee that the whole film is viewable online or available for your intended use. Read the item description and ask about research access where the catalogue does not answer your question.

Evaluate the sequence

When access is available, record time references for relevant scenes and distinguish narration from observable action. Ask whether the sequence is documentary coverage, a demonstration or a staged scene. Identify dates and locations from reliable production information rather than assigning the film’s release date to every shot.

Plan reuse separately

Before editing footage into a new documentary or social post, establish the required permissions and any access or supply costs. Keep the archive identifier, creator information and agreed credit with the edit notes. If the material is being cited only as historical evidence, explain exactly which scene supports the claim and which details remain uncertain.

Common questions

Sources & further reading

References for this guide. Rules and services can change; check the responsible organisation for current details.

• NFSA: Search the catalogue (opens in a new tab)

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