Here is a photo of Ned Kelly from a not so recent film. It is from the 1906 classic Story of the Kelly Gang, believed to be the world's first feature film.

Films this old are rare and delicate. They were made using processes that were subject to deterioration of time and extensive efforts are being made to preserve them using the latest computer technology.

In the UK a 3-year initiative is being carried out at the University of Surrey, with funding from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) to preserve the cultural heritage that in encapsulated in these ancient films.

"The techniques we are exploring may vastly increase access to films of major historical, cultural and artistic value. Ultimately, our work could benefit public service and commercial film archives, which are experiencing growing demand from new multimedia and broadcasting outlets".

says Dr Theodore Vlachos of the University's School of Electronics and Physical Sciences.

You can read more about the project here. If you are interested in this sort of thing you may also like to take a virtual trip to the ScreenSound Australia which is the latest incarnation of The National Film and Sound Archive which was established in 1984. It so easy to while away several hours investigating their fascinating collection.