From the Western Frontier - Series 1, Episode 2: Thunderstorms

As a young boy growing up in Onslow, Western Australia, Patrick Tittums dreamed of flying a plane. Inspired by the adventures of pilot James 'Biggles' Bigglesworth in the books that his mother would buy for him, Patrick let his imagination run wild and a lifelong passion for flying developed. But in his teenage years, bowing to peer pressure, he took to drinking alcohol.

A seemingly harmless and fun pastime quickly spiraled out of control. For nearly thirty years he toiled in the dark times until the thunderstorm of life washed him clean and he took control of his journey to fly into clear skies.

'Thunderstorms' is one of three standalone episodes of the documentary series From the Western Frontier, featuring the work of Western Australian Indigenous documentary directors and writers. Supported by ScreenWest and NITV, this documentary series features the individual stories of everyday Indigenous Australians who have a unique and inspirational story to tell. These contemporary documentaries highlight how specific moments in time can change an individual's journey, making them the person that they are today.

Curriculum links:

From the Western Frontier engages directly with the cross-curriculum priority 'Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures'. It can also be connected to Humanities (History and Geography) and English in the middle-school classroom.

'Thunderstorms' is from Series 1 of From the Western Frontier. The other episodes in this series are 'Elizika' and 'My Three Families'.

The two episodes from Series 2 of From the Western Frontier are also available to purchase on DVD. They are 'Angela's Rules' and 'Fighter'.