Australia: The Story of Us - Episode 8 (ATOM Study Guide)

Australia: The Story of Us is an extraordinary narrative about the people, places and events that have shaped the continent, from the first inhabitants to the present day. This groundbreaking drama-documentary series weaves together stories of the nation's origins and offers fresh insights into how Australians came to create the homeland we inhabit today.

Alongside astounding CGI and cinematic sequences, the series features interviews with important thinkers, notable celebrities and national figures who take us inside the stories that have influenced Australian history.

The series can be viewed as a whole or as individual episodes, or even individual segments within episodes. It can be used as a series of creative starting points for students to start their exploration of aspects of Australian history and the people who made it.

Episode 8: 'New Frontiers'

The island continent is about to launch itself on the world stage as never before. Elaine Moir's courage saves hundreds of Vietnamese babies. Australia's bionic ear gives hope to millions. Ben Lexcen's genius is essential to the defeat of a superpower and the winning of the America's Cup. Paul Hogan takes a quintessentially Australian story and enthrals the world. And for a minute unlike any before in its history, Australians stand as one to barrack for Cathy Freeman. We consider how far we have come – and how much further there is to go.

Curriculum Relevance

Australia: The Story of Us is a suitable resource for students in Years 5–9 in studies of Australian History, English and Film Studies.