Explore the historical and cultural value of the Priscilla bus and its significance in Australian cinematic history.
The Campaign to Restore Priscilla, Queen of the Desert Bus
A campaign has recently been launched to raise funds for the restoration of the iconic silver bus featured in the Oscar-winning 1994 Australian film, «The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert», ABC News reports. The bus, which was thought to be lost for nearly 25 years, was discovered in 2019 on a property in Ewingar, New South Wales.
The History Trust of South Australia, in collaboration with the South Australian government, is leading the restoration efforts. The Chief Executive Officer of the History Trust, Greg Mackie, has confirmed that restoration work has already begun on the 1976 Japanese model Hino Freightliner. The ultimate goal is to display the fully restored bus at the National Motor Museum in Birdwood, located in the Adelaide Hills.
Rediscovery and Confirmation of the Original Bus
After years of being lost, the Priscilla bus was found in a paddock in Ewingar. However, confirming its authenticity as the original bus from the film was no easy task. Mackie explains that there were multiple contenders claiming to be the iconic object from Australian cinema history. Extensive research and meticulous examination were required to establish its true identity.
Despite enduring bushfires and floods, the bus was in dire need of restoration. Mackie describes the restoration process as requiring «big tender loving care». The South Australian government has contributed $100,000 to the campaign, which aims to raise a total of $2.2 million to cover the restoration costs and the creation of a captivating display at the museum, according to ABC News.
A Piece of Australian Cinematic History
The Priscilla bus holds significant historical and cultural value, not just for South Australia but for the entire country. Education Minister Blair Boyer emphasises its importance as both a piece of South Australian history and a significant artefact in Australian cinematic history. Boyer states, «It belongs in a museum».
The restoration work is currently taking place in Brisbane and is expected to cost approximately $750,000. Additional funds will be necessary to create a bespoke and world-class visitor attraction at the National Motor Museum. Mackie envisions an interpretive presentation featuring screens and moving images that will enhance the visitor experience and immerse them in the world of Priscilla.
The campaign to restore the Priscilla, Queen of the Desert bus not only aims to preserve a piece of cinematic history but also to celebrate and showcase the cultural significance of the film. By bringing the bus back to its former glory, the campaign ensures that future generations can appreciate the impact of «The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert» and its representation of Australian identity and diversity.
