‘Death or Liberty’ screening – Melbourne

‘Death or Liberty’
Screening of documentary film

Celtic Club, Melbourne

2 March 2016

The Celtic Club, 320 Queen Street, Melbourne will hold a special screening of the film ‘Death or Liberty’ based on Dr Tony Moore’s book of the same name.

Between 1793 and 1867 the British Government banished its radicals, dissenters and rebels to harsh prison colonies at the very edge of the known world, Australia.

What was their fate? Some escaped and returned to their homeland as heroes but many stayed on in this alien new world... and they made a difference. The life stories of these rebels are full of astonishing acts of bravery and derring-do. In their own words they tell tales that are at once stirring, heart wrenching, dark, creepy even funny. ‘Death or Liberty’ brings to life a forgotten history of these convict rebels. They were transported in shackles and chains but distance did not silence them. Their voices returned to haunt their colonial masters and their acts of protest and rebellion helped to create one of the most robust democracies of the modern age.

Featuring original music by musicians Billy Bragg, Mick Thomas and Lisa O'Neill, the film seeks to capture the spirit and courage of the convicts who ultimately helped to shape democracy in Australia.
This special screening will include an introductory session setting the film in context, and will be followed by a Question and Answer session.

Entry is free and open to all.