As one of about 70 young men and women to take part in the council’s Dr Who trivia day on Saturday, the Wollongong 14-year-old joined with Doctors from all eras, as well as the Tardis, daleks and a host of other much-loved characters to test her knowledge on the long-running British series.

A dedicated fan who admitted to crying for hours after watching some of the cult TV show’s episodes, Gabriella said she became hooked on Doctor Who because of ‘‘captivating’’ storytelling.

‘‘It’s really hard to explain, but [screenwriter] Steven Moffit is a genius and a brilliant writer,’’ she said.

‘‘His episodes just draw you in and captivate you.’’

Gabriella also planned to take her haunting costume out on Sunday to watch the 50th anniversary episode, Day of the Doctor, at the cinemas in 3D.

For five costume-clad teenagers - Rebekah Walsh, 17, Stephanie McEwan, 16, Elise Cannon, 17, Tylah Duggan, 14 and Nicole Mealey, 17 - the trivia day was a chance to immerse themselves in the time-travelling world of the science fiction show, as well as an opportunity to share their appreciation of 10th Doctor Who actor David Tennant, Tylah said.

‘‘We’re all brought together by Doctor Who,’’ Nicole said.

‘‘It’s just a great way to escape with your friends.’’

Wollongong Whovians - as dedicated fans have become known - joined those from all over the world who flocked to cinemas, hosted themed-parties and dressed up to mark 50 years since the first episode screened on the BBC on November 23, 1963.

The ABC screened the Day of the Doctor twice yesterday - once in the morning and once at night - as well as a whole day of Doctor Who programming including interviews, panel discussions, comedy and music inspired by the show.

Google also got in on the celebration, creating an interactive video game logo to mark the day.