Let's boogie down memory lane
Step into a time machine as we journey back to the memorable 1970s. This decade was filled with disco parties, unique fashion statements, and unforgettable events that shaped our lives. From the warm glow of lava lamps in cozy living rooms to the vibrant tunes of The Beatles and ABBA on vinyl records, the ’70s offered a blend of fun and radical change.
We’ll explore everything from family life to iconic moments, and even the groundbreaking technology that made the ’70s distinctive. So, let’s take a nostalgic trip down memory lane and celebrate the essence of this remarkable decade!
Iconic symbols
Ten of the most iconic and memorable symbols from the 1970’s:
- The disco ball is probably the most recognisable symbol of the 1970’s, defining the disco music craze and nightlife culture.
- Platform shoes were a staple of 70s fashion, with high soles and bold designs.
- Lava lamps became popular in the early 70’s which coincided with the counterculture movements and psychedelic trends of the time.
- Pet rocks were marketed as low-maintenance pets and captured the imagination of over 1.5 million people in the mid-70s.
- Mood rings changed colour based on body temperature and were believed to reflect the wearer’s mood, with 40 million rings sold in just three months.
- Waterbeds were a modern furniture design, marketed as providing better support and comfort than traditional mattresses.
- Tie-dye clothing was a hallmark of the hippie movement and counterculture.
- The Atari video game console was released in 1977 with nine launch games, with the Space Invaders game being released the following year.
- Hopper balls were introduced in the late ’70s and were an instant hit with kids.
- Farrah Fawcett’s poster is considered one of the best-selling posters of all time, with over 12 million copies sold after its release in 1976.
Groovy family vibes
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Rad pads and cool communities
Fashion and home decor reflected the eclectic and colorful spirit of the 70s. Family photos from the time often feature bell-bottom jeans, tie-dye shirts, and platform shoes, while homes were adorned with shag carpets, wood paneling, and vibrant wallpaper.
Open floor plans and split-level homes became popular, promoting a sense of openness and connectivity within the household.
Families hosted backyard barbecues, attended neighborhood block parties, and celebrated holidays with elaborate gatherings that included extended family and friends.
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Cool eats
The 1970s marked a decade of culinary innovation, greatly influenced by the introduction of colour TV and new marketing techniques. These developments allowed companies to effectively promote their products, leading to an increased demand for convenience foods.
As more families embraced dual incomes and had less time for cooking, pre-packaged foods like Hamburger Helper, boxed cake mixes, and frozen dinners became household staples. The introduction of microwave ovens further revolutionised meal preparation, making it quicker and easier to reheat and cook food. Hearty casseroles and one-pot meals provided easy and filling family dinners.
This era also saw the beginning of the modern health food movement. With a growing interest in healthier eating habits, muesli bars and yogurt gained popularity. Low-fat options started to appear on store shelves as people became more health conscious.
The culinary landscape of the 1970s was enriched by an increased interest in international cuisines. Italian and Chinese dishes began to make their way into home kitchens, expanding the culinary horizons of many Australians.
American fast-food chains made their debut in Australia, with Pizza Hut opening in Belfield, Sydney, in April 1970, and McDonald’s launching its first store in Yagoona, Sydney, on December 30, 1971, which led to a shift in eating habits over the coming decades.
Homecooked meals: Meat and three veg, lamb roast, Shepherd’s pie, beef stroganoff, corned beef and cabbage, pikelets, ham and cheese Jaffles, apricot chicken
Party food: Cheese and onion cocktail sticks, vol-au-vents, cheese fondue, sesame prawn toast, prawn cocktail, devilled eggs, Hawaiian pizza
Children’s party food: fairy bread, saveloys, mini sausage rolls, cupcakes, jelly cups
Ice creams: Golden Gaytime, Cornetto, Paddle Pop, Drumstick, Bubble-O-Bill, Maxibon, Sunnyboy, Magnum
Lollies: Jaffas, Minties, Red Skins, Cherry Ripe, Freddo Frogs, Violet Crumble, Fantales, Milko Chews, White Knights
Chips and snacks: Cheezels, Colvan chips, Burger Rings, Twisties, French Fries, Samboy chips, Barbeque Shapes
Desserts and cakes: cherry coconut slice, black forest cake, lemon delicious pudding, vanilla slice, trifle, rice pudding, jelly cakes
Take away: chicken, chips and gravy, fish and chips, meat pies, sausage rolls, chicken salt
Non-alcoholic drinks: Fanta, Tarax soft drinks, Claytons, iced tea, Solo, Slades soft drinks
Alcoholic drinks: Foster’s Lager, Coolabah, De Bortelli Merlone, Yalumba dry white wine, gin and tonic, Harvey Wallbanger, Tequila Sunrise
TEST - TEXT OVERLOW
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Funky threads and disco duds
The 1970s was a decade of bold and diverse fashion trends. For women’s fashion, the hippie and bohemian style was characterised by flowy garments, earthy tones, and natural fabrics. Tie-dye prints, fringe details, and bell-bottom pants were staples of this style. Disco fashion, on the other hand, was all about bright colors, sequins, and shiny fabrics, with platform shoes, jumpsuits, and halter tops being commonly worn to disco events. Glam rock fashion included leather jackets, tight jeans, and bold prints, often paired with platform boots and statement accessories. Punk style emerged with DIY fashion, ripped jeans, and leather jackets, complemented by safety pins, studs, and bold makeup. Maxi dresses and tunics made from lightweight fabrics like cotton and silk were popular choices, as well as bell-bottoms and cowl neck sweaters.
When it comes to hairstyles, long and natural hair was embraced, with many opting for a free-flowing look often parted in the middle. Feathered hair, made famous by Farrah Fawcett, featured layers that flipped back, creating a voluminous and soft look. Afros were a symbol of African-American pride and were often picked out to achieve maximum volume. Shag haircuts, characterized by choppy layers and a tousled appearance, were popularized by rock stars and fashion icons. For those seeking a more edgy look, punk hairstyles like brightly colored mohawks and spiked hair became trendy. Makeup trends included a natural look with minimal makeup, bold eyes with bright eyeshadows and heavy eyeliner, frosted makeup, disco glam with glittery eyeshadows and shimmery highlighters, and defined brows.
Men’s fashion in the 1970s also saw a variety of styles. Leisure suits, consisting of matching jacket and pants sets often made from polyester, were popular for formal events. Wide sideburns and large medallion necklaces were stylish choices for a rugged look. Safari suits became particularly popular during this era, thanks to designers like Ted Lapidus and Yves Saint Laurent. These suits, often made from lightweight fabrics, were a fashionable choice for casual wear and were associated with Australian fashion, frequently worn by politicians and celebrities. Platform shoes and bell-bottom pants were also common choices for men, adding to the bold and eclectic fashion of the decade.
Big screen and boogie tube
Number 96 premiered on March 13, 1972, and was one of the first Australian soap operas to tackle adult themes like sexual relations, infidelity, nudity, and homosexuality. It became a cultural phenomenon with viewers tuning in five nights a week.
The Box debuted on February 11, 1974, and added even more risqué content. Known for its explicit scenes and controversial storylines, it drew both criticism and high ratings.
Together, these shows changed Australian TV by introducing more mature content and paving the way for future dramas, reflecting the public’s appetite for edgier programming.
Australia introduced colour television on March 1, 1975, bringing vibrancy and realism to the screen and transforming how people experienced entertainment.
Cinema influences
Drive-ins and cinemas remained popular in the 1970s, producing some iconic films influenced by:
- Cultural shifts: Post-Vietnam war, civil rights movement, and counterculture movements inspired filmmakers to explore complex, gritty, and socially relevant themes.
- New wave filmmakers: Directors like Francis Ford Coppola, Martin Scorsese, and Steven Spielberg brought fresh perspectives and innovative storytelling techniques, pushing traditional Hollywood narratives.
- Technological advancements: Dolby Stereo and Steadicam helped improve film quality.
Blockbuster mentality followed the success of films like “Jaws” (1975) and “Star Wars” (1977) established the summer blockbuster concept, leading studios to focus on high-concept, high-budget films.
Home video recorders expanded the reach of film beyond the cinemas, with Betamax video tapes introduced to Australia in 1976, followed by VHS in 1978.
Popular Australian TV shows: Countdown, Division 4, Hey Hey It’s Saturday, Homicide, Matlock Police, Number 96, Ryan, The Box, The Don Lane Show, The Paul Hogan Show, Young Talent Time, The Aunty Jack Show, The Curiosity Show, Class of ’74, Rush, The Graham Kennedy Show, Ask the Leyland Brothers, The Sullivans, The Young Doctors, This is your Life, Cop Shop, The Restless Years, Against the Wind
Popular American TV shows: Charlie’s Angels, Happy Days, Laverne and Shirley, M*A*S*H, Six Million Dollar Man, Starsky and Hutch, The Brady Bunch, The Carol Burnett Show, The Odd Couple, The Partridge Family, Columbo, Emergency!, The Streets of San Francisco, The Waltons, Kojak, Kolchak: The Night Stalker, Police Woman, Little House on the Prairie, Starsky and Hutch, Welcome Back Kotter, Wonder Woman, Chips, Dallas, Mork and Mindy, The Addams Family
Popular British TV shows: Fawlty Towers, Doctor Who, The Good Life, Porridge, Morecambe and Wise Show, Monty Python’s Flying Circus, Are You Being served?, Upstairs Downstairs, The Benny Hill Show, The Two Ronnies, The Goodies
Australian movies: Ned Kelly, Alvin Purple, Picnic at Hanging Rock, Sunday Too Far Away, Storm Boy, Don’s Party, The Odd Angry Shot, My Brillant Career
Blockbuster movies: Love Story, Poseidon Adventure, The Towering Inferno, Rocky Horror Picture Show, Jaws, Rocky, King Kong, Saturday Night Fever, Smokey and the Bandit, Star Wars, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, Every Which Way But Loose, Grease, Superman the Movie, The Deer Hunter, Animal House, Alien, Taxi Driver, One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, The Exorcist, China Town
Children’s shows and movies: Josie and the Pussycats, The Road Runner Show, The Osmonds, The Scooby-Doo Show, Captain Caveman and the Teen Angels, Around the World in Eighty Days, Pete’s Dragon, Charlotte’s Web, Dot and the Kangaroo, Sesame Street, The Muppet Show, Fat Cat and Friends, The Wombles, The Wonderful World of Disney
Rockin' beats and disco grooves
The Australian music scene in the 1970s was vibrant and diverse, reflecting the cultural shifts and social changes of the time. This decade saw the rise of iconic Australian bands and artists who left a lasting impact on both the local and international music landscape.
Rock music was particularly prominent, with bands like AC/DC, Skyhooks, and Sherbet gaining immense popularity. AC/DC’s hard rock anthems, such as “High Voltage” and “It’s a Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock ‘n’ Roll),” became global hits.
Skyhooks brought a unique Australian flavor to rock with songs like “Horror Movie” and “Living in the 70’s,” while Sherbet’s pop-rock hits like “Howzat” and “Summer Love” topped the charts.
The 1970s also saw the emergence of pub rock, with venues like the Sydney Opera House and the Sunbury Music Festival becoming iconic stages for live performances. This era was marked by a DIY ethos, with many bands recording and producing their own music, leading to a flourishing independent music scene.
Additionally, the 1970s was a time of experimentation and innovation, with artists exploring various genres, including soul, funk, and progressive rock. Female artists like Renee Geyer and Olivia Newton-John also made significant contributions, with Geyer’s soulful voice and Newton-John’s pop hits gaining international acclaim.
Overall, the 1970s was a transformative decade for Australian music, laying the foundation for future generations of artists and establishing Australia as a significant player on the global music stage
Popular Australian songs:
- 1970 – In the Summertime by The Mixtures
- 1971 – Eagle Rock by Daddy Cool
- 1972 – Bopping the Blues by Chain
- 1973 – Little Boy by Sherbet
- 1974 – Let Me Be There by Olivia Newton John
- 1975 – I Love My Music by Sherbet
- 1976 – High Voltage by ACDC
- 1977 – It’s a Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock n’ Roll) – ACDC
Popular American TV shows: Charlie’s Angels, Happy Days, Laverne and Shirley, M*A*S*H, Six Million Dollar Man, Starsky and Hutch, The Brady Bunch, The Carol Burnett Show, The Odd Couple, The Partridge Family, Columbo, Emergency!, The Streets of San Francisco, The Waltons, Kojak, Kolchak: The Night Stalker, Police Woman, Little House on the Prairie, Starsky and Hutch, Welcome Back Kotter, Wonder Woman, Chips, Dallas, Mork and Mindy, The Addams Family
Popular British TV shows: Fawlty Towers, Doctor Who, The Good Life, Porridge, Morecambe and Wise Show, Monty Python’s Flying Circus, Are You Being served?, Upstairs Downstairs, The Benny Hill Show, The Two Ronnies, The Goodies
Australian movies: Ned Kelly, Alvin Purple, Picnic at Hanging Rock, Sunday Too Far Away, Storm Boy, Don’s Party, The Odd Angry Shot, My Brillant Career
Blockbuster movies: Love Story, Poseidon Adventure, The Towering Inferno, Rocky Horror Picture Show, Jaws, Rocky, King Kong, Saturday Night Fever, Smokey and the Bandit, Star Wars, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, Every Which Way But Loose, Grease, Superman the Movie, The Deer Hunter, Animal House, Alien, Taxi Driver, One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, The Exorcist, China Town
Children’s shows and movies: Josie and the Pussycats, The Road Runner Show, The Osmonds, The Scooby-Doo Show, Captain Caveman and the Teen Angels, Around the World in Eighty Days, Pete’s Dragon, Charlotte’s Web, Dot and the Kangaroo, Sesame Street, The Muppet Show, Fat Cat and Friends, The Wombles, The Wonderful World of Disney
Stars and superstars
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Gadgets galore
The 1970s were a transformative era for household technology, with several groundbreaking gadgets making their debut and leaving a lasting impact on daily life.
One of the most notable introductions was the microwave oven, which revolutionised meal preparation by significantly reducing cooking times and offering unprecedented convenience. Families quickly embraced this gadget, and it became a staple in many kitchens.
Another popular device was the VCR (video cassette recorder), which allowed people to record television shows and watch movies at home, transforming the way entertainment was consumed.
The rise of personal audio devices, such as the Sony Walkman, also marked a significant cultural shift, allowing individuals to enjoy music on the go with the newfound portability of cassette tapes.
In addition to these household and entertainment gadgets, the 1970s saw the emergence of early personal computers, such as the Apple I and II, and the Commodore PET. These pioneering machines introduced the concept of home computing, laying the groundwork for the digital revolution that would follow in the subsequent decades.
Calculators became more advanced and affordable, making them common tools for students and professionals alike. The digital watch also made its debut, replacing traditional mechanical watches and offering features like alarms and stopwatches.
These gadgets not only introduced new levels of convenience and efficiency but also set the stage for future technological advancements that continue to shape our lives today.
Keep on truckin'
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hip and far out hobbies
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Sporty scenes
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Australian headlines
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World events
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