Explore shipbuilding in Belfast in the early 1960’s through the eyes of Frank McDowell, who watches ships being built and launched through the atmospheric industrial haze of Harland & Wolff shipyards. This home movie follows ships such as the “Edward Stevinson” and famous luxury liner the “Canberra” during sea trials on Belfast Lough.  Dr McDowell was sometimes asked to go on these sea trials as a ships doctor. The title, 'Northern Ireland Industries: Shipbuilding 1960-61' comes from the film-maker's meticulous typed notebook, where he recorded details around his ongoing projects.

P&O liner “Canberra” was the largest passenger ship

constructed in British yards since end of WW2. Footage shows her leaving

Belfast 29/04/61 for sea trials, before travelling on to Southampton for a

world trip.

Lady Dorothy Macmillan, wife of Prime Minister, attended the launch ceremony, with Lord Wakehurst, Governor of Northern Ireland, Viscount Brookeborough and Lady Brookeborough.

Dr. Frank McDowell