When it opened its Australian factory in 1965, the Kodak empire was at the height of its global influence. Opened by the former Prime Minister Robert Menzies, it was one of the most modern buildings in the southern hemisphere.

Concrete was rendered dust-proof and walls were vapour proofed with bitumen. Interlocking doors protected the film coating process from damaging light.  'Extreme cleanliness' was achieved with an electronic air filter system. It also had the largest refrigeration plant in Australia with a capacity to freeze 2,600 tons of ice every 24 hours.

The factory operated until 2004 when it finally succumbed to the unfolding digital revolution. Kodak Australia Chairman, John Allen, said: “These closures have been caused by the fundamental change in consumer behaviour driven by the increasing popularity of digital photography, in Australia and worldwide.  

Below is the original article from Master Builder Magazine - June 1961.