A generation of women that changed the world
Women achieved an enormous amount during the decade beginning 1965. Equal pay, childcare, refuges for those suffering rape and domestic violence, the availability of abortion and contraception, gay pride, aboriginal recognition, women’s place in politics: all these issues and more came together in the Women’s Liberation movement at this time, transforming Australia irrevocably. As one participant in this documentary observes, this history is one that constantly needs to be re-told. Brazen Hussies reveals an exciting and revolutionary chapter in Australian history, interweaving archival footage, and lively personal accounts from political activists including Anne Summers, Elizabeth Reid, Pat O’Shane and Eva Cox. There are also major figures in the film movements of the time: Martha Ansara, Gill Leahy, Margot Nash and Barbara Creed. We should never allow ourselves to forget how a daring and diverse group of women joined forces to defy the status quo, demand equality and create fundamental social change.
Catherine Dwyer
Catherine Dwyer is a first time director. She worked as Associate Producer, Researcher and Assistant Editor on Mary Dore’s documentary She’s Beautiful When She’s Angry (2014), the story of the US Women’s Liberation Movement. She was the Impact Producer on Freedom Stories (2016), a documentary that explores the achievements of former ‘boat people’ now living in Australia. Catherine has also directed and edited music videos and shorts, including comedian Kirsten Law’s live shows, Party for a Living (2011) and Man Academy (2015) and edited singer Laura Jean’s Girls on the TV (2018).
