Nostalgia in Ads: Memorable Moments from Cadbury, Cottee’s and Colgate

In this instalment of The Ads That Made Us, Mediaweek features industry insiders sharing the nostalgic campaigns that still resonate. For Lexlab’s founder and director Alfie Lagos, it’s Cadbury’s Garage ad that stirs the strongest memories. “An ad like this would never have made me well up before having my daughter,” he reflects, citing its quiet emotional power and a shared love of chocolate.

Nostalgia is personal, and this series taps into just that. Ken Rodrigues (Creative Manager, Acast) still hums the Cottee’s Cordial jingle, linking it with carefree childhood parties and the unmistakable green of Coola Lime. He calls it a “classic earworm” that instantly transports him to simpler times.

Rachel Terkelsen (Melbourne Creative Director, Principals) throws it back to 1985 with Colgate Gel’s unforgettable “Let me in, Sean” ad. Its everyday relatability and memorable dialogue made it a cultural touchstone. Rachel admits to performing the whole ad for her kids, whether they want her to or not.

Each ad shares a common thread: they went beyond product messaging and became embedded in Australian culture. Whether through catchy jingles, emotional storytelling or memorable one-liners, these campaigns have stood the test of time.

The Ads That Made Us reminds us that great creative doesn’t just sell a product, it sticks, sometimes for decades. As advertising evolves, these timeless examples serve as a masterclass in storytelling, brand resonance and the kind of magic that comes from a perfectly pitched campaign.

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