Disclaimer: ‘Australia All Over’ is a program produced and broadcast by the ABC Local Radio Network and hosted by Ian McNamara. Brisbane Suburbs Online News has no affiliation with Ian McNamara, the ABC, or the ‘Australia All Over’ program. This weekly review is an independent summary based on publicly available podcast transcripts and episodes. All original content and recordings remain the property of the ABC. Our summaries are written in our own words and are intended for commentary and review purposes only. Readers can listen to the full episodes via the official ABC platforms.
From Perth to Hobart, the Oct 5 edition of Macca’s program unfolded like a road map of Australia — conversations stitched together by travel, music, work and memory. It was a Sunday morning soundtrack of real voices: people doing what they do best, keeping the country quietly alive.
Queensland Divers Take the Leap in Perth
At East Perth, Gary and Anne from Mount Ommaney stood proudly by the pool, watching their grandson William compete in the national elite diving championships. Twenty young Queenslanders had made the trip, each dreaming of a place on the Olympic stage.
“He’s calm, easy to get along with,” Anne said. “He plans, works hard and never gives up.”
They’d come a week early to wander up to Monkey Mia, taking in the Western sun before the competition began. “Wherever our children are, we go,” Gary added. “We trip as far as we can, as much as we can.”
William, barely in his teens, may well be one of those who rise with the 2032 Brisbane Games. For now, it was enough that three generations had crossed the continent together — the kind of quiet, hopeful journey that feels unmistakably Australian.
Stoney on the Nullarbor
Out on the edge of the continent, Stoney keeps watch. Twenty years after Macca first met him at Eucla, he’s still out there, running starling traps that stretch from the Nullarbor Roadhouse to the Eyre Bird Observatory.
“We’ve shot them, netted them, poisoned them,” he said, matter-of-fact. “Most are pushed back to the border now.”
He lives among weather-station workers and fishermen, where the wind whistles off the Great Australian Bight and cliffs rise 100 metres straight from the sea. He fishes from those heights, lowering lines into the swell below. “By the time you get one up the top,” he said with a laugh, “you don’t feel like throwing it back.”
It’s a hard, beautiful life — the sort of self-contained existence only possible in places where the horizon is everything.
The Spell of Lake Eyre
From Stoney’s cliffs, the program turned inland to the shimmering emptiness of Lake Eyre. Macca read from Roma Dulhunty’s The Spell of Lake Eyre, describing mesas and salt plains so stark they seemed carved from another planet.
A small mob of wild camels moved through the mirage, their silhouettes black against gold light. Dulhunty called the place “Little Camel Canyon”, a valley of stillness and sculpted stone. It was a reminder that even the loneliest parts of the map can feel alive when someone takes the time to look and write them down.
Potatoes and the Price of Living
Not far from Mount Gambier, truck driver John was loading 42 tonnes of stored potatoes for Melbourne. The B-double hummed as he called from the road.
“They load you in thirty-five minutes — all bulk now,” he said. Asked about varieties, he chuckled. “Spuds are spuds to me.”
He’s been carting them since February’s harvest, the crop kept fresh in temperature-controlled sheds. But talk soon shifted from logistics to life. “Eggs have doubled in two years,” he said. “Food’s never been this dear.”
Both men remembered the backyard patches of earlier generations — the Pontiacs and Sebagos that came up in every second yard. Those gardens, they agreed, had a kind of quiet wealth no supermarket could replace.
Songs from Newcastle: Bob Corbett
Musician Bob Corbett called from Newcastle, his voice bright with gratitude. “Thanks for playing Long Weekend, Macca. You’ve sent a lot of good people my way.”
He’s a working musician in the Hunter Valley, playing three gigs a week while raising kids. “Spending time together, creating — that’s the joy of it,” he said.
The two reminisced about the old studio days — Slim Dusty recording at EMI, the Beatles in two-day sessions. “You don’t book time in a big studio anymore,” Bob said. “We all have our own now.”
In his backyard studio, surrounded by guitars and the easy noise of family life, Corbett keeps writing songs that feel like travel postcards from an ordinary weekend in Australia.
Bathurst’s Cortina Nationals
In Bathurst, the main street gleamed with vintage paintwork. Paul Geeran had trailered his classic Cortina all the way from Alice Springs for the Cortina Nationals, marking sixty years since the GT500’s famous Mount Panorama win.
“Everyone was on the track yesterday — nose to tail all the way round,” he said, still sounding amazed. Cars from every state, and even Tasmania, had filled the paddock.
Paul’s been in the Alice since 1983. “People think it’s all trouble,” he said. “But we love living there.” The festival of engines and memory, under a crisp Bathurst sky, carried that same sentiment — a love of place that runs on petrol, polish and pride.
All Over News: Roads, Wheat and Bread
The All Over News segment crossed from red dirt to grain fields. There’s a plan to bitumenise the road from Laverton (WA) through Alice Springs to Winton (Qld) — the Outback Way. Advocates say it’ll open a diagonal freight link across the nation; locals fear it could change their remote rhythm forever.
Macca then turned to the story of Gabo wheat, bred from Gaza and Bobbin strains. “To see my father in a field of wheat was to see a man at prayer,” poet Max Fetchin once wrote — and that line hung in the air like dust at harvest.
At the Perth Royal Show, baker Lachie Bisse of Big Loaf Bakery in O’Connor explained the secrets of good bread. “Aged flour absorbs more moisture,” he said. “You get a softer loaf and a better rise.” For Bisse, the dawn starts and warm ovens are a kind of calling: feeding the city one loaf at a time.
Outback Airwaves: Martin Corbin
At the airport, Macca ran into Martin Corbin, a former ABC producer now working with NG Media across the Ngaanyatjarra Lands.
“Community radio is hearing your culture brought back to you,” Corbin said. From Wingellina to Warburton, he helps remote broadcasters produce local music and health messages in language.
He spoke too of the Outback Way. “It’ll make travel safer,” he said, “but it’ll also change things — more tourists, more traffic. We’ve got to keep the balance right.”
His own commute — Uluru to Wingellina, four hours on a desert track — shows what connection really means out there.
Deniliquin Ute Muster: Country Pride
Paul from Deniliquin was still buzzing from the Deni Ute Muster, two days of country music and engines under a Riverina sun.
“It’s great for the town,” he said. “They do it tough, but this brings everyone together.” Families and farmers filled the grounds to see The Wiggles, Zac Brown Band, John Williamson and Troy Cassar-Daley.
Visitors had come from across Australia — and even from Wales — proving how far small-town festivals can reach when music and mateship do the marketing.
Ian McDougall and the Music of Snow
From Goulburn, songwriter Ian McDougall phoned in. He’s fronted Canberra’s Acme Jigs and Reels Company for decades and still skis whenever he can.
“The snow here’s heavier,” he said, comparing Australia’s drifts with the fine powder of Colorado and Niseko. His stories of Kiandra and the Snowy Scheme mixed history and affection — the sound of someone who’s spent a lifetime listening closely to both weather and song.
Strings and Feathers: Ian Simpson in Perth
In Perth, banjo master Ian Simpson picked through the difference between Merle Travis’s thumb-picking and Chet Atkins’s alternating bass. Then came the tune that started it all — The Wreck of the Old 97.
He remembered the 1970s, playing three pub shows a Saturday. “You just kept going,” he said. “Now it’s quieter — but the rhythm’s still the glue.”
At home in Armadale, Simpson tends fruit trees and a flock of chooks — recently joined by a stray guinea fowl that simply moved in. “Looks like it’s staying,” he laughed. Music, like birds, finds its own roost.
Speed Cubing in Brisbane
At Eight Mile Plains, Glenn from Bunbury watched his 14-year-old son Declan compete in the National Speed Cubing Championships — a world of flashing hands and memorised moves.
“He’s in the blindfold finals,” Glenn said proudly. “I can’t do it myself.” The two planned a week in a campervan afterwards, exploring Queensland’s hinterland — father and son solving life’s puzzles one stop at a time.
Inline Hockey in Hobart
Down south, Graham from Hobart reported from the National Inline Hockey Championships at MyState Arena. “It’s ice hockey on rollerblades,” he explained. With the city’s rink long gone, players turned to synthetic courts. Twelve age divisions, a thousand competitors — proof that Tasmania’s sporting heartbeat still thumps loud.
The Road Rolls On
When Macca signed off — “If you see me on the road, stop and say g’day” — listeners had already been there: at the diving pool, the bakery, the desert airstrip and the ute paddock. The Oct 5 Show was Australia in real time — voices, distances and dreams stitched together by a signal strong enough to cross them all.
Disclaimer: ‘Australia All Over’ is a program produced and broadcast by the ABC Local Radio Network and hosted by Ian McNamara. Brisbane Suburbs Online News has no affiliation with Ian McNamara, the ABC, or the ‘Australia All Over’ program. This weekly review is an independent summary based on publicly available podcast transcripts and episodes. All original content and recordings remain the property of the ABC. Our summaries are written in our own words and are intended for commentary and review purposes only. Readers can listen to the full episodes via the official ABC platforms.
Spring was in the air and so were the stories. This Sept 28 episode took listeners from recycled timber and the call of East Arnhem Land to quirky island cars, sandstone “cities” hidden in the Top End, and a two-month escape from news and email. Along the way came bravery awards and hugs, vintage motocross, a long-fought medical milestone, the tough world of restaurants, youth brass bands, an Aussie in Nottingham, and wildflowers from Bendigo to “Ravey.” All stitched together with Macca’s banter, asides, and genuine curiosity — it was Australia, all over.
Danny Johnson — Forty-Two Years of Demolition, All Recycled
Danny Johnson’s voice carried the weight of four decades spent pulling down buildings — but also the joy of putting old timber and pressed metal to use again. He spoke to Macca from inside his restaurant, where nothing was new. “Every single thing in here is recycled,” he said proudly. “All of the timber, the doors, the windows, the lining boards… I’ve stripped the paint off, re-polished, re-varnished, re-shellacked. The whole place is a recycled establishment.”
It all began when his dad came home one day and suggested they help a widow whose house had to be demolished. “So dad and I pulled that old house down in Duncan Street, Warracknabeal. Two or three people started coming past, and they started to buy this lining boards and roofing iron and 4x2s and Oregon beams off me. And it was great. I said to dad, hey, gee, we could make a living out of this.” And they did, for 42 years.
Now retired from demolition but not from work, Danny lamented what he sees as over-regulation. “Health and safety has gone right over the top. We’re so overregulated in this wonderful country… all us ordinary guys and girls, who I call the productive people — for God’s sake, give us a go. Stop putting bloody hurdles in front of us.” Macca chimed in, “Too many rules, mate. Too many rules, too many laws, too many lawyers.” Danny agreed wholeheartedly.
What pains him most is the waste when old buildings are bulldozed. “Even in Warracknabeal, our beautiful hospital, 100 years old, smashed it down with a front end with an excavator, smashed it to bits. I nearly cried… that beautiful cowrie pine flooring and jarrah flooring, all just being smashed to bits.” He argued that governments should allow time for salvage teams before the machines roll in. “I’ll do it. I’ll come out of retirement,” he said. And then, with the kind of wisdom passed down through families, he quoted his father: “As long as you got three meals a day and a roof over your head, son, you’ll be right.”
Angie — Solo Run to East Arnhem Land
Angie rang in from Roma, cheerful and matter-of-fact about the long road ahead. She was on day two of an 11-day drive from her property near Nimbin all the way to Nhulunbuy in East Arnhem Land.
“Today, I’m driving to Longreach, and I’ll probably have a look at the Stockman’s Hall of Fame and the Qantas Museum,” she said. From there the route stretched through Mount Isa and Katherine before the last leg — “670 kilometres of corrugated hell, apparently, to Mullenboy.”
She wasn’t travelling light. “I’ve joined the Central Arnhem Road Facebook group and getting lots of advice,” she explained. “I’ve got extra spare tyres, and yeah, I’m just by myself. My husband, he works full-time back home, so this is an adventure of a 12-month work contract I’ve got up there.”
Macca asked if she was in Nursing. “No, no, I’m in Tourism. I’ve been in tourism for about 150 years,” she laughed. Her speciality is fishing tourism, and she’s heading north to help develop “catch and cook” and other ventures, as Rio Tinto prepares to exit the region. “It’s a privilege to get up there and help some tourism and aerospace and aquaculture industries,” she said.
For now, though, it was just her, a “20-year-old Toyota packed to the rafters,” and the open road. “It’s a lovely thing to do, to go driving, especially when you see Australia,” Macca said. Angie agreed: “Beautiful day here, beautiful day. I’m heading out through the canola fields towards Longreach.”
Pete on Magnetic — International Moke Day
“Just hold on, I’ve got to sit down,” Macca laughed when Pete from Magnetic Island mentioned it was International Moke Day. Pete, calling after a sprinkle of morning rain, said the Men’s Shed had put together a small celebration. “We’ve managed to get about 14 people together. So we’ll have breakfast over at the Men’s Shed, maybe go for a bit of a drive and end up at the pub for lunch.”
Magnetic Island was once a haven for the quirky little cars. “In its heyday, they had 124 Mokes,” Pete said, “the second largest Moke hire company outside of Portugal.” Originally built by BMC for the army, they had ground clearance issues but became perfect runabouts. “Well, the old ones were getting a bit tired,” Pete admitted, “but beautiful little car.”
Retired from the Gold Coast, Pete now loves his island life. “We’re only 20 minutes by ferry off Townsville… it really is a beautiful, beautiful place,” he said. Macca added, “That’s what it’s about, isn’t it? Not the destination, the friends you’ve got around you.”
Tony Allen — The “Loft Cities,” Kimberley Skies and 10,000 Kilometres
Tony and his wife had just returned from a two-month, 10,000-kilometre trip that took them across northern Australia and back. They weren’t in a hurry, and that was the point. “We set that up for our camping trip and took off, went up to Townsville and then into Hughenden, then up on to the Savannah Way, up to Cobalt Gorge and on from there… and across some fairly abominable roads,” Tony told Macca.
On the road between Burketown and Borroloola they met a cyclist named Michael who had ridden from Adelaide. He convinced them to take a detour into Limmen National Park. “There’s the Southern Loft City and the Western Loft City… amazing columns of eroded sandstone all close together. It’s just the most stupendous place, Macca.”
Macca admitted he’d never heard of it. “Not that I should know everything, but I’ve never heard of that, the lost city,” he said. Tony replied, “Certainly worth visiting.” From there, they went on to Keep River National Park with its own sandstone formations, then on to Broome, where their daughter works with Magabala Books.
Temperatures tested them: “We’d have 13 degrees in the morning, and then 33 in the afternoon. It would just be… a big gradient.” Macca agreed: “That’s huge, isn’t it? But I suppose people in the north are used to that.” On the way home, they took the Tanami Track to Alice Springs, then the Plenty Highway to Boulia.
For Tony, the best part was the mental reset. “We didn’t listen to the news for two months. Didn’t check our emails.” Macca chuckled: “Shock horror!” Tony agreed: “That’s what everybody should do.”
Sally — Bravery, After the Headlines
At Burleigh Heads, Sally introduced herself brightly: “I’m the chief hugger of the Australian Bravery Association.” She explained how the group supports people who’ve risked their lives to save others. “Life after rescue can be quite challenging. We go into an emergency situation with no protective clothing, no training, no tools, no one to help us, no peer support. We just go in with a kind heart, just hoping we can help someone.”
Those rescues often leave scars. “We quite often suffer physical and emotional injuries as a result of our rescue attempt,” she said. Research backs that up — Dr Tom Voight’s study showed family members can also be traumatised, with impacts ranging from flashbacks to strained relationships. “I’m not saying that everyone gets PTSD,” Sally said, “but rescue events can be very traumatic.”
Bravery Awards, she reminded listeners, are open to public nomination: “Anyone in the community can nominate someone for a bravery award. That family might receive a life-changing medal, which becomes part of the family folklore.” The awards are announced on 1 September — Bravery Day — with ceremonies at Government Houses around the country.
The Australian Bravery Association, made up of award recipients themselves, also organises events. “We hold regional events… I just want to chat with you today about the campout we’ve got coming up on the Gold Coast at Ormo on October 25th,” Sally said. “If anyone’s got a bravery award, wants to hang out with other bravery award recipients and tell tall stories, and laugh and carry on, and have some fun — I’d like to invite them.”
Macca teased her about the “chief hugger” title. Sally laughed: “I’m so brave I can go and hug anyone. And a lot of the men can’t do that.” She added: “Anyone needs a hug, I’m available, okay? You need a hug, Macca?” He chuckled: “Well, everyone needs a hug and a cup of tea.”
Vaughan — A Century for the Brisbane Motorcycle Club
Vaughan’s call came from the road south of Ipswich. He and his mate were heading to Queensland Moto Park for a special celebration: the Brisbane Motorcycle Club turning 100. “They’re holding the National Vintage Motocross at Queensland Motor Park this weekend,” he explained.
His own pride was a pre-1970 Ossa 250. His mate was astride a BSA Gold Star in the pre-60 class. “Like a BSA Gold Star is probably maybe $20,000 worth,” Vaughan said. There’d be bikes from pre-60, pre-70, pre-75, and riders well into their eighties still taking to the track.
Sidecars, once a common sight in post-war Australia, were absent this time. “We couldn’t get a field of sidecars for this event, so we had to have a bit of a cry,” Vaughan admitted. Macca reminisced how tradesmen once threw tools into sidecars and rattled off to work. “Exactly,” Vaughan agreed. “That was how you got around.”
The event was free for spectators. Vaughan chuckled as he described himself — retired but still racing at 66. “We’ve got guys out in their 80s that are still racing motocross.” Macca was impressed: “More power to you, mate.”
Rod Martin — Rural Generalists Finally Recognised
From Armidale, Rod Martin brought news two decades in the making. As president of the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine, he announced that rural generalists were now formally recognised as medical specialists. “It’s 20 years in the baking the cake and six years to ice it,” he told Macca.
He explained the significance: doctors would now have a proper target to train for. “We expect people to be able to look after emergencies, look after people in hospital and look after them in the primary care settings,” Rod said. Training included the option to sub-specialise in anaesthetics, obstetrics, palliative care, paediatrics, and more — twelve pathways in all.
Rod also tackled a health rumour that had unsettled many pregnant women: whether paracetamol use caused autism. “Two and a half million Scandinavians got studied a year and a bit ago, and there was no evidence for it. It doesn’t cause it.” Macca sighed: “News organisations grab hold of anything. It does a lot of harm.”
Rod agreed: “It ends up taking up more time explaining things that are pretty simple and straightforward. When you get washed and washed with the same bit of story, it takes careful, deliberate discussion to correct it.”
Recognition for rural generalists, he said, would give leverage to secure more funding: “We’ve now got the very clear justification to say, we need to fix health outcomes… let’s get on with it.”
All Over News — Muriel Chen and The Taiwanese Table
The All Over News segment spotlighted chef and author Muriel Chen. She told Macca how her family migrated from Taiwan in the late 1980s. Her mother and father knew little English, but carried ambition and determination. Settling in Melbourne, they eventually returned to what they knew best: food.
Muriel now runs the Blue-Eyed Dragon in Pyrmont, Sydney. Her book, Food from the Isle of Formosa: The Taiwanese Table, weaves together family stories and recipes. “For me… this is Taiwanese. My mum cooked it this way. However you like to say it, this is Taiwanese.”
Business has been a rollercoaster. After relocating to a larger venue in 2010, things thrived. By 2019, trade had dipped. Then came COVID — and unexpected support. “The day before lockdown, a customer walked in and said, Muriel, I just want to take away for $300. Here is $500. Cook whatever you like,” she recalled. “And I even had a customer from the UK buy a gift voucher he would never use, just to support us.”
Muriel’s mother, who once ran a 1,000-seat restaurant in Taiwan, joined her in Sydney and helped train the staff. Many are still with her after nearly two decades — Sugi, who began washing dishes, is now head chef; her sister-in-law is the dumpling master; Anita has been sous chef since her teens.
On 30 September, the Blue-Eyed Dragon marks its 20th anniversary with a fundraiser for the Cerebral Palsy Alliance. Muriel remains committed to her community too, supporting Pyrmont Cares, which furnishes homes for those starting over.
Fergus & Alex — Youth Brass on Tour
From a tour bus in New South Wales, Fergus and Alex gave a glimpse of life in the Victorian State Youth Brass Band. Fergus plays tuba — “the carpet that all the cornets sit on,” he said proudly. Alex, principal percussionist, laughed that he’d been hitting drums since he was three. “It’s the backbone. Playing anything that’s out the back, hitting stuff, it’s always fun.”
Macca joked about the shape of lips dictating which instrument you play. Fergus replied that while “embouchure” mattered, the real key was breath control: “The air is what creates the beautiful tone, having a really consistent support down at your diaphragm and your pelvis.”
With 50-plus members, the band was on its 2025 New South Wales tour. “It’s always the highlight of the year,” Alex said. For Macca, it was a chance to remind listeners of the dedication that goes into youth music.
Mick Gallis — Ange, Forest and a Six-Hour Bus
From Nottingham, Mick Gallis was buzzing. He’d flown over to see Ange Postecoglou coach Nottingham Forest. “I got to meet Ange pre-match,” he said, still pinching himself. “And even the owner, Mr Maranakis.” For Mick, an everyday bloke from Melbourne, it was a thrill to chat with figures most fans only see on TV.
Forest lost 1–0 to Sunderland, but Mick barely cared. “They rolled out the welcome mat,” he said. “I even got interviewed on the BBC.” The only sour note was the transport home. With trains booked out, he took a six-hour bus back to London. “It’s a long way from Nottingham to Melbourne, Australia, Macca,” he quipped.
Macca teased him about hotel showers. Mick confessed he couldn’t work out the taps at two different hotels. “I tried to have scones with the King, but he was busy at Balmoral,” he joked. His itinerary included the Cotswolds, Edinburgh, Amsterdam, the Somme — where he would honour a great-uncle who fell in World War I — and Paris. “I love overseas, but there’s no place like home,” he said warmly.
Mindy — Counsellor Between Two Systems
Mindy called from Bunbury, Western Australia, wrapping up a 10-day campervan trip with her husband and two teenagers. They’d visited Lucky Bay and Esperance, passed through Denmark, and were heading into Perth to catch a flight back to Melbourne.
Her story stretched further than the holiday. An American from Florida, she married a Sydney man after meeting him on a social service trip in Mount Druitt. “We just started emailing back and forth,” she said. Eventually, he moved to the US with her, and they built a life there. Now, two years into what was meant to be a short work stint in Melbourne, they’ve decided to stay.
Mindy works as a counsellor and psychotherapist. She still sees clients in the US via telehealth while trying to build a base here. “There are many, many clinicians out there, but no funding for it,” she explained. Medicare covers psychologists and social workers but not counsellors. “If Medicare could utilise these other clinicians, it could go a long way.”
She contrasted systems. “In the US, insurance is very pricey, but mental health coverage is included. Here, you’ve got well-trained people who can’t access the funding.” Macca sympathised: “All we hear about is mental health. Seems like you could never be out of work.” Mindy smiled at the irony: “It’s just the funding that comes to cover it, though.”
Sandy — Bendigo’s Native Flower Show
Sandy rang in from Bendigo, where the Australian Plants Society was holding its annual flower show. “All natives,” she said with pride. More than 400 varieties grown in members’ gardens were on display, alongside books, stalls, and community groups.
She had been busy all day introducing visitors to local mint bushes. “I’d make them just touch the leaves, squeeze them and smell them,” she laughed. “They’re fantastic. Aromatic plants — you walk past them and brush against them, and the aromas just hit you.”
Macca joined in, recalling how mint bushes in his own garden filled the air with purple blooms. Sandy added that Bendigo varieties also flowered scarlet and bright yellow. “The scent of lemon, of mint, of honey, of eucalyptus — it was just a delight walking in this morning.”
For her, the beauty of natives was their resilience. “In the bush, they don’t get pruned or watered or weeded. Just let them go,” she said. Even city dwellers, she reminded, could grow them in pots. “The garden just does it for me,” Macca agreed. “Whether it’s an insect or a bird or a smell or a sight… it restores the soul.”
Dan — First AFL Grand Final
Driving home past Ararat, Dan was still buzzing from the AFL Grand Final at the MCG. A Cats supporter, he’d finally seen his team in the big dance after 50 years of following them. “We come up short, but it was just an experience,” he said.
The official crowd was 100,022, “should have been 23, but the bloke next to me didn’t show up,” he laughed. Dan sat up in the “nosebleeds,” close enough to touch the roof, but loved every minute.
He makes wine in the Barossa Valley and had hosted a breakfast for local farmers before driving over — a casual get-together with bacon and eggs to check in on mates doing it tough. His wife works with the Royal Flying Doctor Service and was heading to Port Augusta as he drove home.
The day itself was a mix of football and showbiz. Dan wasn’t much fussed about the halftime act. “A lot of noise, not my cup of tea,” he admitted of Snoop Dogg’s performance. Macca chuckled: “Depends how old you are.” For Dan, the match itself was the main event, and it was one he’d never forget.
Justin Taylor — ACDC in Katanning, 50 Years On
Justin Taylor rang from Tambellup, WA, still energised by a community event in nearby Katanning. It was 50 years to the day since ACDC played there on their TNT tour. “We set about organising a bit of a reenactment of that Long Way to the Top video,” he told Macca.
Local musos filled in for the band, and they even found a bagpiper, Andy Davies from Alberton. “He blows a mean horn,” Justin laughed. They secured a truck, the shire’s blessing, and police support, then rolled through town blasting rock and roll. “It was fantastic, Macca. You would have loved it.”
Macca laughed along: “Rock and roll ain’t noise pollution.” For Justin and the community, it was proof that regional towns could still put on a show with heart.
Toby Ford — Rowing for Bush Wellbeing
Toby Ford introduced himself as part of Outback Rowing Australia. Next weekend, Longreach and Barcaldine would host regattas on the Thompson River and at the Barcaldine Water Sports Area. “We’re tapping into the rivalry between the two towns — one a squatter’s community, the other a shearer’s community,” Toby said.
But the real goal was health. “The further you live from the ocean in Australia, the shorter your lifespan,” Toby noted, citing Australian Institute of Health and Welfare data. The regatta was part of tackling well-being in the bush. “We spend about $86,000 per adult per year on illness, and only $86 on prevention.”
This year would also include the first bush kids’ rowing program, teaching life skills and resilience. “We’ve now got 10 towns in western Queensland that have started rowing,” Toby said proudly.
Macca reflected that bush kids often develop life skills early — feeding stock, pitching in on farms. Toby agreed, adding that safe decision-making was part of giving children “safe passage to adulthood.” For him, rowing was one way to encourage that.
Enid — Honeyeaters and Geraldton Wax
Enid rang from suburban Perth, delighted by the wildlife in her neighbour’s garden. Two baby New Holland honey eaters had just taken flight from a topiary bush under a veranda. “We’ve been watching them and protecting them for a while,” she said.
She encouraged gardeners to plant dense shrubs where small birds could shelter from larger predators. She also praised Geraldton Wax for drawing in bees. “I walk out my front door and I can hear all these bees.”
Macca admitted he’d struggled to grow the plant in his soil but remembered seeing it flowering in WA, “deep purple and pink along the railway line.” Enid assured him it could work in big pots with proper drainage. “It restores the garden with sound and colour,” she said.
Rhonda — Wildflowers at ‘Ravey’
Rhonda called while driving between Lake Grace and Lake King, heading home to Esperance. She wanted to give a plug for the Ravensthorpe Wildflower Show, held every September. “The best wildflower show in the world, I’m told,” she said.
Locals simply call the town “Ravey.” This year’s show had been a triumph, with displays of the region’s spectacular biodiversity. “Anyone travelling Western Australia should plan to be in Ravensthorpe early September,” Rhonda urged.
Macca laughed: “You should’ve rung a couple of months ago.” But he promised to see her there next year. Rhonda, who runs a broadacre cropping farm with her son, said the season had been kind. “Crops are looking really good in our area, so very thankful for that.”
It’s a Wrap!
And with that, Macca signed off, promising that the full flavour of Australia could always be found on the airwaves each Sunday morning. From Warracknabeal salvage yards to Arnhem Land fishing, from Magnetic Mokes to lost cities of stone, the Sept 28 show carried listeners across landscapes, lives, and laughter.
Disclaimer: ‘Australia All Over’ is a program produced and broadcast by the ABC Local Radio Network and hosted by Ian McNamara. Brisbane Suburbs Online News has no affiliation with Ian McNamara, the ABC, or the ‘Australia All Over’ program. This weekly review is an independent summary based on publicly available podcast transcripts and episodes. All original content and recordings remain the property of the ABC. Our summaries are written in our own words and are intended for commentary and review purposes only. Readers can listen to the full episodes via the official ABC platforms.
Disclaimer: ‘Australia All Over’ is a program produced and broadcast by the ABC Local Radio Network and hosted by Ian McNamara. Brisbane Suburbs Online News has no affiliation with Ian McNamara, the ABC, or the ‘Australia All Over’ program. This weekly review is an independent summary based on publicly available podcast transcripts and episodes. All original content and recordings remain the property of the ABC. Our summaries are written in our own words and are intended for commentary and review purposes only. Readers can listen to the full episodes via the official ABC platforms.
Spring was in the air on this week’s program, and Macca’s callers brought with them a lively mix of stories: from kites on Brazilian beaches and four women pedalling a quad bike across the Nullarbor, to Nashville songwriters, disappearing bees, and classic cars in suits. Add in students bound for Kokoda, a squeeze box festival in Queensland, and a surprise call from guitar legend Hank Marvin, and it made for a show as varied as Australia itself.
Danny from Melbourne – Health and Kite Adventures
Danny began with an update on his health, relieved to be clear after prostate cancer surgery but now facing a long wait for a hip replacement. He admitted staying active was difficult, but insisted, “You’ve just got to keep moving. You can’t sit still.” Danny also recalled his days in Brazil flying stunt kites, including a massive 3.8-metre prototype that pulled him barefoot along the sand. Trying the same at Anglesea ended badly: “I came crashing down on the rocks and got cut to pieces. Never again.”
Ride for Life – Quad Tandem Across Australia
Anna from the Gold Coast called from Port Augusta, midway through a national ride on a four-woman “quad tandem” bike. “We’ve had caravanners stopping to take photos, people making donations on the side of the road,” she said. Even a busload of grandmothers gave them fresh scones. The group is raising funds for Gotcha4Life’s suicide prevention programs, aiming for \$500,000 by the time they reach Bondi Beach on 10 October.
Angus Gill – Music, Nashville, and Alzheimer’s Awareness
Angus Gill checked in from Nashville, where he has been collaborating with Marty Stuart and James Burton. His new record Postcards is due out in October, alongside his first novella, Departure and Arrival, inspired by his grandmother’s battle with Alzheimer’s. “I used to play cards with my nan every night,” he said, “and that’s where the song In the Cards came from.” Gill described Nashville as a city where “there’s live music on every corner,” saying it has sharpened his songwriting and performance.
Distinguished Gentleman’s Drive – Classic Cars for Movember
Organisers Mark Hawwa and Corey Brown explained how the Distinguished Gentleman’s Drive swaps motorbikes for classic cars. Hawwa said, “We started this to break stereotypes — people think bikers are hairy blokes in leather. We put them in suits.” The event has since grown into a global fundraiser, raising over \$100 million for Movember’s men’s health initiatives. Sydney and Brisbane are among hundreds of cities worldwide hosting drivers next Sunday.
All Over News – Bank Closures Across Australia
Journalist Dale Webster discussed the latest wave of Bendigo Bank branch and agency closures, calling it “the biggest mass closure I’ve seen in 10 years.” Despite a government moratorium, dozens of towns are losing their only service. Webster argued the solution is to “re-establish a people’s bank, like the old Commonwealth Bank,” noting that a Senate inquiry recommended it over a year ago.
All Over News – Where Are the Bees?
Veteran apiarist Keith Steele gave a sobering report on Varroa mites. “Backyard hives are down 50 per cent,” he said, with many hobbyists giving up because of the cost of constant treatments. Commercial operators, he added, are paying tens of thousands just to keep their bees alive. Steele warned bluntly: “Without bees, we don’t eat.”
Michael Gallus – From London to Nottingham
Michael Gallus called from London while celebrating his 30th wedding anniversary. He planned to watch Ange Postecoglou’s Nottingham Forest, only to discover his great-great-grandfather was born there. “I’ve even found some living relatives,” he said with amusement. Gallus also described London as “Disneyland for adults” and laughed about trying Britain’s so-called “warm beer”: “It’s not warm at all — just not as cold as ours.”
Seasonal Dates and Listener Letters
Rob from Maidenhead explained the difference between meteorological and astronomical seasons, using solstices and equinoxes to show why dates vary. Another letter came from Oliver DiMarscio in Italy, who reflected on 25 years abroad. He praised Australia’s “mateship and optimism” compared with Europe’s social tensions, adding that listening to Macca gave him a sense of home.
Outdoor Learning – Students on the Kokoda Track
Jason from Guildford Grammar in Perth called before leading 18 students on the Kokoda Track. “Brigadier Potts was a student here,” he said, noting that Potts’ great-granddaughter was joining the trek. Jason described it as “an exercise in grit and resilience” that teaches lessons far beyond the classroom.
McLaggan Squeeze Box Festival
Cheryl from McLaggan promoted the town’s annual Squeeze Box Festival on 11 October. Now in its 22nd year, the event features button accordions and ends with an old-time dance. Despite its small-town setting, it attracts musicians and visitors from across the country.
Skunk Works Community Youth Band Festival
Philippa phoned from a bus heading to Sydney with 45 young musicians from Victoria. The group, aged 13 to 25, will rehearse with professionals from leading orchestras before performing at the Kogarah School of Arts. Philippa said the day was about “showing young people they belong in music.”
Native Bees and a Reset for Honey Production
Sam from near Taree offered a different perspective. With European bees in decline, he said, “Our native bees are thriving. They’re filling the gap.” Some commercial beekeepers, he added, were reporting higher honey yields as competition for nectar eased. While native bees can’t replace Europeans for all crops, Sam described the shift as a “reset” that could help biodiversity.
Leadlight Windows – An Artist’s Eye
Macca replayed an interview with stained-glass artist Keith Little. He recalled that architects often delayed installing his windows until after dedications “so they wouldn’t overshadow the building.” To critique his own work, Little said, “I put it up against a mirror — when you see it backwards, you spot the faults.”
Letters – Rising Power Bills and Remembering Charlie Townsend
One letter described a \$1,346 winter electricity bill, highlighting the struggles of pensioners. Another came from Janine, remembering her father Charlie Townsend, a baker turned cattle station owner in Wilcannia. A replay of his earlier interview revealed his deep love of breadmaking and community life.
Hank Marvin – Gypsy Jazz on Tour
The show closed with a surprise call from guitar legend Hank Marvin. Now touring with his gypsy jazz quartet, he praised accordionist Nunzio Mondale and spoke about the joy of Django Reinhardt-inspired jazz. “It’s challenging, but so rewarding,” Marvin said. He will perform at Chatswood’s Concourse before heading to Brisbane’s Oz Manouche Festival.
Disclaimer: ‘Australia All Over’ is a program produced and broadcast by the ABC Local Radio Network and hosted by Ian McNamara. Brisbane Suburbs Online News has no affiliation with Ian McNamara, the ABC, or the ‘Australia All Over’ program. This weekly review is an independent summary based on publicly available podcast transcripts and episodes. All original content and recordings remain the property of the ABC. Our summaries are written in our own words and are intended for commentary and review purposes only. Readers can listen to the full episodes via the official ABC platforms.
Disclaimer: ‘Australia All Over’ is a program produced and broadcast by the ABC Local Radio Network and hosted by Ian McNamara. Brisbane Suburbs Online News has no affiliation with Ian McNamara, the ABC, or the ‘Australia All Over’ program. This weekly review is an independent summary based on publicly available podcast transcripts and episodes. All original content and recordings remain the property of the ABC. Our summaries are written in our own words and are intended for commentary and review purposes only. Readers can listen to the full episodes via the official ABC platforms.
From gold mines in Kalgoorlie to abalone diving off Tasmania, from CrossFit competitions in Williamstown to the mystery of Ludwig Leichhardt in the Channel Country, Macca’s Sept 14 program stitched together a lively tapestry of voices and stories. There were tales of sheep pregnancy scanners, music at the Bridge to Brisbane, a looming protest in Bendigo, and even a caller awaiting the birth of her baby in Melbourne. Add in reflections from Santa Cruz and Rabaul, and it was a program that captured the breadth of life at home and abroad.
Russell in Kalgoorlie – First-time Listener Call
Russell Lawrence phoned from Kalgoorlie, speaking from the top of a gold mine pit. He explained how listening to Macca had become a regular Sunday habit but admitted this was his very first time calling. Though he didn’t stay on long, he wanted to let the show know how much it meant during his quiet shifts. “Thanks for the show,” he said warmly. “It makes my Sunday mornings.”
Clarky in Camvilligo – Broken Phone Box
Clarky called from Mount Poppy gold mine near Camvilligo, east of Cobar. He reported that the Telstra phone box wouldn’t accept cash, leaving him reliant on his mobile instead. “I’m reporting a Telstra fault,” he said with a laugh, adding that he was “digging dirt chasing gold.” Macca joked that Telstra would be out there “before you can turn around.”
Chris – An Accent and a Love of Australia
Chris rang in to reflect on his life in Australia, recalling how he stood out when he first arrived. “I qualified in my class because I was the only one with a barbecue and an interest in things Australian,” he joked. He said that about 12 per cent of his country’s population now live in Australia — roughly 650,000 people — and all share a deep love for the country. “We love you guys… we think you’ve got a great country. It’s a lucky country. We hope your luck doesn’t run out.”
Evel Knievel Memories
The conversation shifted briefly to stuntman Evel Knievel, remembered for his dramatic visits to Australia. Listeners recalled how difficult he could be, but one wryly suggested his brother “Good Evil” would have been a much better guest — “a really nice boy.”
Pete in Watheroo – WA Crops Looking Strong
Pete rang from Watheroo, WA, where he pulled over to admire the fields around him. “I’ve just had the pleasure of looking at some of the wheat fields and canola crops, which is absolutely outstanding this year,” he said. He described the canola as “as high as an elephant’s eye” and said conditions were the best he’d seen in years.
Quote of the Week – Brendan Nelson
Macca shared his quote of the week, taken from Brendan Nelson: “The most important things in life, in my experience, have always been funded by cake stalls and raffles.” Macca reflected that volunteers really are the glue of communities. “Exactly, exactly,” he said, “true a thing, isn’t it? Volunteers… they run cake stalls and raffles and chook raffles.”
Stuart in Rochedale – Raffles Keep Things Running
Stuart from Rochedale responded to the quote, adding with a chuckle that government certainly doesn’t keep things afloat. “Well, certainly not the government,” he said.
Dave at Twin Cuttle Station – Lake Cadibarrawirracanna
Dave from Twin Cuttle Station near Coober Pedy rang to talk about Lake Cadibarrawirracanna, a lake with the longest name in Australia. He explained that it’s dry most of the time, filling only after heavy rains. The name itself means “lake with a long name,” and it became infamous after vandals repeatedly stole the road sign. Locals eventually shortened it to “Lake Caddy,” which finally stopped the thefts.
Malcolm Wood – Music, Unions and AI
Musician Malcolm Wood shared a story from Broken Hill in the 1990s, where musicians had to be union members to perform. “If you weren’t a paid member, no pay, no play,” he recalled. He contrasted that with today, where computers and AI often replace live music. “There’s just no play because nobody’s playing,” he lamented. He warned that machines have no “feeling” and can never replicate what musicians bring to their art. “Every new house should have a piano,” he added.
Alex the Sax Player – Bridge to Brisbane Fun Run
Alex, a saxophonist, was preparing to perform with his band at the Bridge to Brisbane Fun Run. “We’re playing 100 meters from the finish line… trumpet, sax, drums, a bit of singing, a bit of… I bought my tap shoes, a bit of tapping,” he said. Their goal was to keep runners motivated in the final stretch with lively music. Macca invited Alex to join a future jam in Brisbane with other local musicians.
Sue from Newcastle – Country Train to Armidale
Sue, a primary school principal from Newcastle, called after a train trip from Sydney to Armidale. She praised the relaxed pace, the opportunity to talk with fellow travellers, and the scenery of the New England Tablelands. “It’s a great trip,” she said, adding that the train splits at Werris Creek, one branch to Moree and the other to Armidale. Sue also used her call to highlight the dedication of rural teachers, calling them “the glue of the community.”
Bernie at Kidman Camp – The Mystery of Leichhardt
Bernie phoned from Kidman Camp in Bourke, en route to Eromanga with his daughter. He was armed with a metal detector and was keen to find traces of Ludwig Leichhardt, the explorer who disappeared in the 1840s. “We’re heading through to Eremanga and looking for Lycart… camps and some of the remains,” he explained. He admitted he hadn’t had much luck in past searches but hoped this time would be different. Along the way, he noted the abundance of feral goats in the region.
Ray – The Darling River Run
Ray called to describe his recent trip along the Darling River Run, travelling from Bourke to Menindee Lakes. He spoke of “rough, corrugated, potholed, boggy” roads that tested his vehicle, but also the lush green country around the Flinders Ranges. He noted that the river at Louth had risen eight inches in two days, a sign of healthy flows. He planned to cap his journey with a scenic flight over Lake Eyre and the Painted Desert.
Jono in Ballina – Health Battles and Rugby Joy
Jono, a regular caller from Ballina, gave a heartfelt update on his health. “I thought I was doomed. I thought I was going to leave the building,” he admitted, describing how close he had come to death. Six weeks on, he said he was learning to look for joy in every day. His son’s rugby season provided that joy, as the team won nearly every match, and his son was made a life member of the club.
Dr Zach Turner – A Doctor in Ballina
Dr Zach Turner joined from Cabarita Beach, ready to start work at Ballina Hospital. Originally from Toowoomba, he spoke about working across rural and remote areas and the burnout many health workers suffered during COVID. He urged people to think of mental health as exercise: “I kind of consider it to be brain gym… if you don’t use it, you lose it.”
Alastair from Ballarat spoke after attending a pregnancy scanners’ conference in Mildura. He explained that 40 scanners with a combined 417 years of experience had scanned 6.1 million sheep in a year. Identifying twins and triplets allows farmers to better manage animal welfare and boost farm efficiency. “It saves four to five dollars for every dollar spent,” he said. The group has since formed a network called Scanners United.
Rob from Tasmania – Diving for Abalone
Rob called from Cape Barren Island while diving for abalone. He described the icy waters, just 11 degrees, and the physical effort required to gather green lip abalone. He said the industry was struggling with competition from Chinese aquaculture. When asked about cooking, he gave his advice: “Just bash it pretty hard, and a bit of garlic butter in a hot frying pan is the way I like it best.”
Mark on the Highway – Reliable News Matters
Mark phoned from near Taree, praising the ABC’s roadside frequency signs that keep drivers connected to local radio. He voiced concern about the spread of fake news and deepfakes, mentioning viral hoaxes such as the “baby lifted by an eagle” video. “So much fake news is put on the internet these days,” he warned, adding that reliable sources are more important than ever.
All Over News – Jimmy the Kelpie
Listeners heard the story of Jimmy, a timid sheepdog who became a champion after observing another dog at work. “He was absolutely useless,” owner David Oakes said, “but then Jimmy got off his haunches, belted this other dog out of the way, and became a champion thereafter.” Breeder Jan Lowing from the Darling Downs explained that some pups are slow starters but Kelpies are highly adaptable, with some now fetching tens of thousands of dollars at auction.
Svane in Santa Cruz – Restoring a Boat
Svane called from Santa Cruz, California, where he is restoring a 40-year-old sailboat with plans to eventually sail back to Australia. Having lived in the US for 40 years but still tied to Ballina, he compared the two coasts. “Santa Cruz and Byron Bay have a lot in common. I think they should be sister cities,” he said. He also spoke of California’s reliance on migrant workers and the state’s high energy prices.
Ian on Bribie Island – Walking for Prostate Cancer
Ian phoned while walking along Pumicestone Passage as part of The Long Run. Diagnosed with prostate cancer a decade ago, he described himself as “probably the luckiest cancer sufferer in the world.” He has endured recurring tumours but remains active and positive. “Go and get yourself checked out young, and keep doing it,” he urged men.
Mark in Williamstown – CrossFit Competition
Mark from Williamstown was competing in the Masters HQ CrossFit national final. In his 50s, he said he was inspired by athletes in their 70s who were still competing. He explained CrossFit as “a high-intensity fitness program that combines a whole bunch of styles of exercise,” and embraced the event’s tagline: “Don’t be old, be epic.”
Kevin Butler – BlazeAid Protest in Bendigo
Kevin Butler, head of BlazeAid, phoned in ahead of a planned protest rally in Bendigo. He criticised a Victorian levy that taxes farmers and volunteers while they’re helping communities after disasters. “When we leave our farms to fight fires or to do the months and months of work after floods, the government puts a levy or a tax on us,” he said. With 500 people and 100 fire trucks expected, he described the levy as “unreasonable and unfair.”
Ellen in Parkville – Awaiting a Baby
Ellen called from the Royal Women’s Hospital in Melbourne, ready to deliver her second child. She admitted she was “feeling very lucky and happy, but also kind of freaking out a bit.” It was a joyful and nervous moment, and Macca wished her luck on behalf of listeners everywhere.
Chris in Rabaul – PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary
Chris rang from Rabaul as Papua New Guinea prepared to celebrate its 50th anniversary of independence. “There are flags and shirts… people in the streets are wearing meri dresses with P\&G, 50-year independence,” he said. He also recalled the devastation of the 1994 volcanic eruption, which destroyed much of the old town. Despite mixed feelings about independence, he said locals remain deeply proud of their culture and history.
Peter Nitske – Life on the Tamar River
Peter, 81, called from Beauty Point, Tasmania, aboard his yacht Zero Balance. He explained how he always wanted a boat but only found the time after retirement. “When there was money, there was not enough time. So now I’m retired. And I’ve bought a boat,” he said with a laugh. Years of restoration have gone into the vessel, and he now plans to sail around Flinders Island.
John in the Phone Box – Solstices and Equinoxes
John phoned from Hustle, standing in a public phone box to make his point. He argued that Australia should align its seasons with solstices and equinoxes instead of fixed calendar dates. “The spring should be the 21st of September, which is the equinox,” he said. Macca replied that maybe the simpler dates were just easier to remember — and easier to spell.
Disclaimer: ‘Australia All Over’ is a program produced and broadcast by the ABC Local Radio Network and hosted by Ian McNamara. Brisbane Suburbs Online News has no affiliation with Ian McNamara, the ABC, or the ‘Australia All Over’ program. This weekly review is an independent summary based on publicly available podcast transcripts and episodes. All original content and recordings remain the property of the ABC. Our summaries are written in our own words and are intended for commentary and review purposes only. Readers can listen to the full episodes via the official ABC platforms.
Disclaimer: ‘Australia All Over’ is a program produced and broadcast by the ABC Local Radio Network and hosted by Ian McNamara. Brisbane Suburbs Online News has no affiliation with Ian McNamara, the ABC, or the ‘Australia All Over’ program. This weekly review is an independent summary based on publicly available podcast transcripts and episodes. All original content and recordings remain the property of the ABC. Our summaries are written in our own words and are intended for commentary and review purposes only. Readers can listen to the full episodes via the official ABC platforms.
Father’s Day framed this week’s program, and callers from across Australia – and a few further afield – offered a rich tapestry of stories: from sheep stations and steam engines to shark nets and macadamia farms.
A Buoyant Dunedoo
Dave from Dunedoo phoned in while driving to Coffs Harbour, reflecting on renovating a California bungalow with cypress floors. Once written off as a “cheap rental,” the house has become valuable thanks to an unexpected influx of workers drawn to new wind and solar projects around town. Dunedoo’s café is serving 800 bacon-and-egg rolls a day, he laughed.
Delivering a Cruiser on the High Seas
Chris called from a 41-foot flybridge cruiser off Montague Island, mid-delivery from Melbourne to Sydney. A marine industry man, he revelled in seeing Wilsons Prom by water for the first time and mused on the fragility of relying solely on satellite navigation – “work smarter, not harder,” he quipped, though he still keeps charts and compass on hand.
From London with Dosas
David checked in from London, babysitting his granddaughter while his daughter worked in banking. He praised the uncharacteristically warm English summer and confessed to trekking across the city to Wembley for the best dosa batter, second only to his wife’s.
Father’s Day Reflections
Kelly in Sydney offered a moving tribute to her late father, saying Macca’s voice rekindled the sound of his. She was preparing breakfast with her daughters for her husband. Later, Lindsay from Granville Harbour, Tasmania, praised Kelly’s call and reminded listeners that “there are more pathways than just university” for young people – recalling his own 15-year-old self working underground in a tin mine.
Sharks, Swimming and Safety
Kieran Kelly joined from Utah to comment on the tragic shark attack at Dee Why. A veteran ocean swimmer, Kieran argued sharks rarely target humans deliberately, and that nets are both ineffective and destructive. He advocated humane alternatives like shark-repelling cables, recalling his own long swims from Palm Beach to Manly.
Neil, a truckie hauling 44 tonnes of potatoes, later added poignancy: he’d lost a mate to a shark attack in Ballina. Still, he stressed that beaches popular with families deserve better protection.
Machines, Music and Mentors
In All Over News, Macca met Chris Jericho on the Mildura road, hauling a 1920 Fowler crane engine home from the Toowoomba machinery rally. Jericho’s other life is growing watermelons and pumpkins, though rising costs make the work harder.
Listeners also met Bella Barton, a second-year civil engineering student in Adelaide, who loves designing roads and sees opportunity in blending user experience with engineering.
Dr Fred Cole, a musician and piano tuner in Lismore, spoke about the decline of live pub music, the resurgence of pianos, and his work reviving forgotten Beale pianos.
Life Lessons and Career Pathways
Education became a recurring theme. Anthony, a teacher from Gippsland, urged schools to show children multiple pathways, from fixing motorbikes to technical trades. Callers reflected on how career satisfaction, rather than status, defines a good life.
Outback Memories and Family Reunions
Former pastoralist David Oag rang in to recall Macca’s 1999 broadcast from Woomera and life running sheep at Arcoona Station. He later worked on the SA Pastoral Board.
Alison spoke from the Wellshot Hotel at Ilfracombe, where she and her family gathered to honour their grandfather James Mitchell, once manager of what was the world’s largest sheep station.
Yoli in Bundaberg, a Filipino-born accountant turned macadamia farmer, reminded listeners that true wealth is “doing what makes you happy.”
Collections and Connections
Michael, a passionate collector from Adelaide, described his trove of Holden cars, tools, and memorabilia. His tale of sheds full of rare vehicles – from Monaros to GTs – showed the lengths Australians go to preserve history.
Nicole from Ballarat remembered her late father, harness racing trainer Peter Tompkins, who won the AG Hunter Cup with Paris Affair. She proudly reported that her brother Clayton had just won the $2.8 million Eureka with Bay of Biscay.
Jeremy in Darwin looked back on being in the very first engineering class at Melbourne Uni to include women, praising today’s female engineers like Bella.
Finally, Ray from Bargo, NSW, shared perhaps the most touching Father’s Day story: his 13-year-old son had surprised him with tickets to the Australian Open, bought with wages from a café job.
Disclaimer: ‘Australia All Over’ is a program produced and broadcast by the ABC Local Radio Network and hosted by Ian McNamara. Brisbane Suburbs Online News has no affiliation with Ian McNamara, the ABC, or the ‘Australia All Over’ program. This weekly review is an independent summary based on publicly available podcast transcripts and episodes. All original content and recordings remain the property of the ABC. Our summaries are written in our own words and are intended for commentary and review purposes only. Readers can listen to the full episodes via the official ABC platforms.
One of the morning’s most stirring calls came from central NSW, where a convoy of 27 vintage tractors had set off the day before in memory of a much-loved local mechanic, Trevor, who passed away suddenly last year. His daughter rang in from the road — her voice emotional, but proud — describing how farmers, family friends, and mechanics had polished up their rusting Masseys, Fergies and Deeres for a slow journey between Gilgandra and Dubbo, raising funds for mental health charities. “Dad could fix anything with a motor, but he was hopeless at asking for help,” she said quietly. Each tractor bore a ribbon with his name stitched in, and as they crawled along the bitumen, strangers waved them on from paddocks and shopfronts. “The noise was deafening — all that diesel and memory.” She said her dad would have hated the fuss, but loved the turnout. Macca let the silence sit after she signed off, then softly said: “That’s Australia right there.”
In Winton, Poetry Stitched in Cloth
A cheerful call from Winton’s old CWA hall brought a welcome contrast — Betty, in her 80s, described how a group of local women had just completed a massive embroidered panel depicting the history of the region, from the Dreamtime serpent winding through the hills to shearers striking under a boiling sun. “It took us three years,” she said. “I had to unpick the barbed wire fence twice because the tension was wrong.” The panel, 9 metres long and stitched with every imaginable thread, is now the pride of the shire, and will be unveiled during the upcoming Outback Festival. Betty chuckled that her great-granddaughter had embroidered the QR code onto the corner so people could scan it and learn more — “we’re not that behind the times.” Macca was clearly charmed, and promised to make a detour to see the cloth if he’s ever up that way again.
An Emu Invasion in the South West
From near Lake Grace in WA, a wheat and sheep farmer rang to report a strange emu phenomenon — more than 100 of them, wandering through his recently sown crop in a slow, silent procession. “They’re not eating it, just walking through like they’re off to vote,” he said, mystified. He’s seen flocks before, but never so many, and never so determined. A local ecologist he spoke to reckons the birds are tracking ground vibration — following the memory of ancient songlines or the promise of water. “All I know is they ruined half a paddock and left not one feather behind,” he said. Macca wondered aloud whether the emus knew something we didn’t. “I wouldn’t put it past them,” the farmer laughed. “They’ve been outthinking us since 1932.”
Shed Music in Suburban Tasmania
A quieter but equally rich story came from Margate, just south of Hobart, where a recently retired school principal named Tom has transformed his backyard shed into a monthly chamber music venue. “We fit about 14 people, two cellists, and a kettle,” he said. The idea started with some friends during lockdown and now draws string players from around the region who squeeze between gardening tools and a model train set to play Mozart quartets. His latest guest was an 18-year-old violinist from Burnie who had never played to a live audience before. “She nearly cried,” he said. “So did we.” The concerts are free, the acoustics are better than expected, and his wife bakes scones for intermission. Macca, ever the musical magpie, seemed genuinely moved.
A Poem Rediscovered
Fax machines aren’t extinct, at least not on Australia All Over. A listener from Gundagai, digging through his late father’s war trunk, found a yellowed envelope with a poem scrawled on the back of an old invoice. The handwriting was faded but legible, the rhymes simple but steady: a bushman’s tribute to a fallen horse, written in 1944. Macca read it slowly — each line ending with the soft sound of dust and boots — and when he finished, there was a moment’s pause. “Whoever wrote that,” he said, “wasn’t trying to be fancy. Just true.” The caller said he’s sending a copy to the Australian War Memorial.
Other Highlights
A Brisbane caller checking in from a wool shed in Dirranbandi where a “shearing school” is being trialled for high schoolers. “Kids with clippers learning to crutch and count — we’re keeping the skills alive.”
A quick hello from a family camped by a frozen creek in Omeo, in Victoria’s high country. “Minus three this morning, billy froze solid — but the stars last night were magic.”
A pilot from Cairns, tuning in during his pre-flight checks at 5 a.m., who thanked Macca for “keeping me company in the dark before I head into the blue.”
A guest appearance by a volunteer meteorite hunter who helped confirm a recent find in South Australia’s Gawler Ranges — a 1.3 kg rock from space, now being studied by geologists in Adelaide. “It rang like iron when I tapped it with a hammer,” he said.
Disclaimer: Brisbane Suburbs Online News has no affiliation with Ian McNamara or the “Australia All Over Show.” This weekly review is an attempt to share the wonderful stories that Ian broadcasts each week and add value to what is a smorgasbord of great insights.
The morning began with a call from north of Bourke, where Clem, a fencing contractor, was on day three of replacing six kilometres of boundary fence torn apart by floodwaters in February. He described in detail how the old star pickets had folded under debris—mostly timber and grass washed in from upstream—and how he’d begun spacing out new galvanised pickets and triple-running plain wire, using strainers reinforced with ironbark stays. He said he and his son were working from sun-up to sundown, trying to finish before cold mornings set in. When asked about ferals, Clem said wild pigs had torn through parts of the old fence, “like they owned the place,” but newer wiring and solar gates were holding them out for now. His matter-of-fact tone underscored just how routine big repairs have become across the floodplain.
A call from Narrandera, NSW came from a citrus grower beginning the Valencia harvest after a warm, dry end to summer. She reported a better-than-expected yield, but noted that smaller fruit size and high freight costs were cutting into profits. She explained how they use handheld refractometers to check sugar levels and pick by hand to avoid bruising. She also mentioned the return of picker shortages, saying her family’s relying heavily on grey nomads and local teenagers. “We’re not fussy—we just need hands and hats,” she said. This brief but concrete update painted a clear picture of small-scale fruit farming in a challenging year.
In a more unusual segment, a listener from Mount Barker, SA, described how he’d recently moved an upright piano from his grandmother’s house into a converted shearing shed on his property. He gave a precise account of how he and his brother constructed a timber sled using fence posts and a steel winch, then slid the piano down a ramp and loaded it onto a tandem trailer. The whole project took two afternoons and three fridge dollies. Now installed in the shed, the piano will be used for monthly folk nights with neighbours. “It’s a bit out of tune,” he said, “but no one here minds.”
A farmer outside Deniliquin phoned in to report on a trial of mixed cover cropping in fallow paddocks. He had recently sown a mix of vetch, oats, tillage radish, and crimson clover, hoping to improve organic matter and suppress ryegrass. He explained how they’d rolled the seed mix in with a cultipacker behind a light disc and said early results were promising: good germination and less weed pressure than last year’s fallow. He added that his agronomist is planning to graze sheep on the stand in late winter before terminating it ahead of spring planting. This kind of rotational, multispecies grazing update—practical, dry and useful—was the type of call bush farmers tune in for.
From Bunbury, WA, a retired brickie gave a quick run-through of how he uses leftover scaffolding planks and concrete bricks to build raised garden beds for mates on pensioner blocks. “Four bricks, one plank, repeat,” he said, adding that he’s built twelve beds across four homes in his neighbourhood. The caller said he sources soil from the local tip’s green waste recycling depot and gets seedlings cheap from the Lions Club markets. His motto: “No one should be too broke to grow.”
One of the more entertaining calls came from a horse transport driver somewhere near Roma, QLD, who phoned in during a stopover to stretch his legs. He was on a four-day run carting six show horses from Tamworth to Mount Isa for a rodeo clinic. He explained how each horse was given its own feed bay, padded sides, and 3-hour rest intervals. “It’s not just a float—it’s a stable on wheels,” he said. He described how the horses react to traffic noise differently—some sleep standing, others sway with every corner. The transport rig runs a light spray system to keep dust down and a side fan system powered by an inverter. It was a rare insight into the logistics of long-distance animal transport done properly.
A woman in Castlemaine, Victoria rang in to describe her firewood rotation system, which uses a combination of ironbark, box and redgum across three drying racks. She detailed how she stacks by species and burn time—ironbark for the coldest nights, box for regular use, and redgum for kindling or fast-start fires. Each load is dated with chalk. She mentioned that she processes most of her own wood with a hired log splitter, after a friendly tree lopper drops off clean cuts. “I’ve got firewood dated out to 2027,” she laughed.
From Bridport, Tasmania, a call came in from a volunteer involved in restoring the town’s old surf club hall, recently repurposed as a community shed. She described how volunteers were using salvaged weatherboards from a nearby demolition site and had installed a new corrugated roof with donated insulation from a local builder. The building, which once hosted lifesaving classes, is now used weekly for men’s shed meetings, knife-making demonstrations, and ukulele practice. “We’ve kept the sea breeze but added power points,” she said.
Later in the program, a call from Cunnamulla came from a bloke who’d just completed 20,000 km in a 1981 Toyota LandCruiser, circumnavigating Australia. He gave a short field report on tyre pressure, road conditions, and fuel pricing from Ceduna to Kununurra. He also mentioned his custom water tank setup, which held 70 litres under the tray and was refilled mostly via campgrounds and filtered creeks. “I did the whole thing solo—no trailer, no fridge. Just me, a swag, and the weather band on the radio,” he said. Macca asked where he slept most. “Gravel pits, mostly. And one tennis court.”
The episode ended with a brief but rich update from a historian in Gundagai, who’s been compiling local letters from the 1891 shearers’ strike. He read from one account by a station cook describing a week of feeding 60 men on damper, mutton and cold black tea. The researcher said he’s working on a short publication that includes never-before-published union minutes and anecdotes from station hands who walked off the job. “It’s not textbook history—it’s muddy-boot stuff,” he said.
Disclaimer: Brisbane Suburbs Online News has no affiliation with Ian McNamara or the “Australia All Over Show.” This weekly review is an attempt to share the wonderful stories that Ian broadcasts each week and add value to what is a smorgasbord of great insights.
