The Sydney Morning Herald turned 195 in April 2026. To mark it, the paper shared 15 of its most powerful photos. They were picked by the Herald’s chief photographer, Kate Geraghty. The images go from the first photo the paper ever printed to moments from this century.
Key Facts
- Founded: 1831.
- Milestone: 195 years of publication in April 2026.
- Chosen by: Chief photographer Kate Geraghty, a Walkley Award winner.
- First photo printed: The Great Battleship Fleet turning into Sydney Harbour.
- Archive project: More than 10 million photos are being digitised, the Herald said.
Some of the Photos
- The Great Battleship Fleet: The first photo the Herald ever published.
- A sheep-shearing shed: Taken by George Bell, the paper’s first staff photographer.
- Farewell to Gallipoli troops, 1915: Families waving goodbye to soldiers.
- Victory in the Pacific Day, 1945: Frank McAlary twirling along Elizabeth Street.
- The 1963 grand final: Norm Provan and Arthur Summons, covered in mud, at the SCG.
- Australian troops in Vietnam, 1965.
- The Munich Olympics, 1972: A photo by Russell McPhedran.
- After Cyclone Tracy, 1974: Darwin locals hanging washing in a fallen tree.
- Xanana Gusmão, 2001: Held up by crowds in East Timor.
About Kate Geraghty
Nine reported that Geraghty was the first female Herald photographer to cover armed conflict.
Saving the Archive
The Herald said it is working on a five-year project to digitise more than 10 million photos. This includes 94,000 old nitrate and glass-plate negatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old is the Sydney Morning Herald?
It was founded in 1831 and turned 195 in April 2026.
Who chose the 15 photos?
Chief photographer Kate Geraghty.
What was the first photo it published?
The Great Battleship Fleet turning into Sydney Harbour.
Conclusion
These photos show big moments in Australian history. They remind us how much one picture can tell.
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