Nunawading Studios, the iconic home of Channel 0 and later Network 10, has closed its doors, marking the end of an era for Australian television. The studio, which saw the rise of stars like Kylie Minogue, Russell Crowe, and Margot Robbie, has been vacated by its final tenants, Fremantle Australia. As the gates lock, the memories of decades of television magic linger in the air.
The closure of Nunawading Studios, located in the Melbourne suburb of the same name, represents a significant shift in the landscape of Australian media production. The site, which housed the beloved soap opera “Neighbours” and the Lassiters complex, is now slated for redevelopment. Property developers plan to transform the interior into a distribution center and co-working space, while new townhouses are set to be constructed on the grounds. A heritage overlay will protect the exterior, preserving the walls that once formed the Wentworth Detention Centre of “Prisoner.”
A Storied Past
Opened in 1964 by Reg Ansett, Nunawading Studios was originally home to ATV-0, which later became Network 10. The studios continued to host productions until 2025, becoming a cornerstone of Australian television. The site was a hub of creativity and talent, with shows like “The Magic Circle Club,” “The Go!! Show,” and “Young Talent Time” being filmed there.
Nancy Cato, a performer from the early days of the studio, recalls the excitement of opening night in 1964. “Was it really 61 years ago that I stood trembling as a 24-year-old in the Tunnel of the brand new ATV-0 studios?” she reminisced. The studios were a world away from the smaller GMV6 studios she had known, offering state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant atmosphere.
Memories from the Stars
Many of the stars who graced the Nunawading Studios have fond memories of their time there. Johnny Young, host of “The GO!! Show” and “Young Talent Time,” described his experience as a “joyous ride,” while Colette Mann, known for her roles in “Prisoner” and “Neighbours,” likened returning to the studios to “coming home.”
Annette Allison, a former presenter of “10 Eyewitness News” and “Good Morning Melbourne,” reflected on her decade-long tenure at the studios. “The studios at Nunawading were part of my life for over 10 years. It was all-consuming,” she said, recalling the bustling activity and the sense of being part of a mini Hollywood.
“Nunawading felt like the centre of the universe,” Jennifer Keyte, a former journalist at the studios, remarked. “We’d go to the canteen for lunch with Guy Pearce, Russell Crowe, and Kylie Minogue!”
Legacy and Impact
The legacy of Nunawading Studios is one of innovation and cultural impact. The site was a breeding ground for talent, nurturing the careers of some of Australia’s most beloved entertainers. Eddie McGuire, who began his career at the studios, recalled the excitement of working alongside legends and the camaraderie that defined the era.
Rove McManus, who filmed “Rove Live” and “Are You Smarter Than A Fifth Grader?” at the studios, emphasized the historical significance of the location. “It was never lost on me the history that had come before us in that building,” he said, recalling personal tours he gave to international stars and the vibrant atmosphere that permeated the studios.
The closure of Nunawading Studios marks the end of a chapter in Australian television history, but its impact will be felt for generations. As the site transitions to new uses, the memories of its storied past will continue to inspire those who pass through its gates.
As the industry evolves, the legacy of Nunawading Studios serves as a reminder of the power of television to shape culture and connect people across time and space. The stories and memories shared by those who worked there are a testament to the enduring influence of this iconic institution.
