In this episode we explore the history of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples before the arrival of white European settlers. We also look at first contact with Europeans – the Dutch explorers and finally the British. I use the Aussie rock band Goanna’s song Solid Rock to tie the episode together.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people should execise caution if listening to this episode as it may contain the names of people who have passed away.

Check out a YouTube clip of Goanna performing Solid Rock on Countdown (an Australian TV music show of the 1970s and 1980s):

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t94RBuiOgsA

Another great Aussie Song is Christine Anu’s version of My Island Home. The video is from the closing ceremony of the 2000 Sydney Olympics

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kDyc-T2AYt4

Email me at: jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com

Music courtesy of Dan-O at: http://www.danosongs.com/

Thanks to Ken Dampier for post-production.

In this episode we consider ten sometimes strange but true facts about Australia. These are:

• Australia really is populated by extremely dangerous animals that can and will kill you
• Australia was established as a penal colony
• The Prime Minister is missing
• Our strange ‘population’
• Giving women the vote
• How much can a koala bear?
• Australians love a good fence
• We eat our coat of arms
• We have a Queen - Australia is a Monarchy

For this episode I recommend thee movie Rabbit Proof Fence and also check out the Northern Territory News – it’s bound to have a croc story. Check out their web page at: http://www.ntnews.com.au/

Email me at: jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com

Music courtesy of Dan-O at: http://www.danosongs.com/

Thanks to Ken Dampier for post-production.