a) Kodak 'Retinette' camera made in Germany. Silver and black. 'Retinette' engraved on front b) Brown leather case for (a). Made in Kingsgrove NSW. 'Retinette' embossed on lid of case, 'Kodak' on front. Piece of elastoplast inside lid with 'Grant High School' written in biro. Maker's details embossed underside of case.kodak, camera, retinette, vintage camera

When this leather case was made it was the only material available that not only looked fashionable but also was able to absorb any small knocks or scratches which may happen to the mobile but still delicate camera. Digitalisation of photographic equipment for non professional use brought with it a reduction in camera size (pocket), increased portability and the dispensing of thick leather cases. With the increase of camera functions on mobile telephones, the need by tourists and the general public for a dedicated camera is rapidly diminishing. The protective leather wrapping for expensive, professional goods, especially electronics is very rare and foam padded aluminium bags and containers are the preferred mode for travel.This particular leather case has travelled to and from England via an ocean cruise by a now retired couple living in the Kiewa Valley. It is significant to this region because it underlines the slow transition from a purely farming, grazing, mining and tourist region to an area opening up to a specific socio-economical structure for retirees. This social and demographic shift by retirees will produce a greater need for changes in facilities required by an increasing aged population. Though it may take more time for cities and larger towns to come to grips with a growing aged population, rural areas(because these will define more clearly any imbalance of population) present the first demonstrative change to Australia, and world wide, a population based phenomenon.This item is a brown coloured leather camera case (Box Brownie Six-20) with an adjustable strap and associated buckle. The leather has been moulded to the shape of the camera and is slightly tapered as a closing flap fastened at the front with a lockable clasp. The end of the leather flap has a metal(tin) with a semi circular ring formed to allow it to be held as part of the clasp. Pressed into the underbelly of the semicircular closing mechanism is"PAT. APPLIED FOR" and underneath this"MADE IN ENGLAND" camera, case photography, hobby, personal equipment

Graham McDonald dived from 1940s to 1970s and he used the camera to record his diving experiences. He was invited to film the dedication of an underwater plaque in memory of the late P.M. Harold HoltEarly camera with handmade underwater casing, Invitation to commemoration of plaque to Harold Holt placed underwater.Underwater video camera in handmade aluminium waterproof casing Circa 1968. Copy of invitation to Harold Holt Commemoration plaque underwater placement off, on - on top of camera casecamera, underwater camera, camera casing, harold holt, comemoration