Countdown

Countdown was a long-running popular weekly Australian music television show broadcast by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation from 8 November 1974 until 19 July 1987. It was created by Executive Producer Michael Shrimpton, producer/director Robbie Weekes and record producer and music journalist Ian "Molly" Meldrum. Countdown was produced at the studios of the ABC in the Melbourne suburb of Ripponlea. Countdown was the most popular music program in Australian TV history. It was broadcast nationwide on Australia's government-owned broadcaster, the ABC and commanded a huge and loyal audience. It soon exerted a strong influence on radio programmers because of its audience and the amount of Australian content it featured. For most of the time it was on air, it also gained double exposure throughout the country by screening a new episode each Sunday evening, and then repeating it the following Saturday evening. The majority of performances on the show were lip synched.

Season 5

The 1978 season showcased the rise of disco and new wave. Marcia Hines continued her success, while international guests like Kate Bush and Blondie brought fresh sounds to Australian audiences. The Countdown Dancers added visual flair, and Molly Meldrum’s commentary kept fans connected to the latest trends. The program’s cultural impact was clear: appearances often translated directly into chart success.