The iconic Agro puppet, a beloved character from Australian children's television, has found a new home at the National Film and Sound Archive (NFSA) in Canberra. The puppet, known for its mischievous antics and distinctive voice, was donated by its creator, comedian and puppeteer John Michael Howson, who passed away in 2022.
A Piece of Australian Television History
Agro first appeared on Australian screens in the 1980s on the popular children's program "Agro's Cartoon Connection." The puppet quickly became a household name, entertaining generations of young viewers with its cheeky personality and humorous interactions. The NFSA acquisition ensures that this piece of Australian television history will be preserved for future generations.
Preservation and Legacy
The NFSA, located in Canberra's Acton precinct, is dedicated to collecting, preserving, and sharing Australia's audiovisual heritage. The addition of Agro to their collection highlights the importance of children's television in Australian culture. The puppet will be stored in climate-controlled conditions to prevent deterioration, and it may be displayed in future exhibitions.
John Michael Howson's family expressed their delight that Agro will be cared for by the NFSA. "Agro brought so much joy to Australian children, and we're thrilled that the puppet will be preserved for future generations to enjoy," said a family spokesperson.
The Agro puppet joins other iconic Australian television memorabilia at the NFSA, including costumes from "Play School" and props from "The Wiggles." The archive continues to expand its collection, ensuring that Australia's rich television history is not forgotten.
