Australian Story

The exclusive inside story of an elite Australian army commando charged with the manslaughter of five children after a horrific and controversial raid gone wrong in Afghanistan.

Continuing the exclusive story of an elite Australian Army Commando charged with the manslaughter of five children after a horrific and controversial raid gone wrong in Afghanistan

Celebrating 20 years on air, ABC's multi-award-winning program looks back on some of the most memorable moments and reveals the untold stories behind them.

Celebrating 20 years on air, ABC's multi-award-winning program looks back on some of the most memorable moments and reveals the untold stories behind them.

This week's episode focuses on Michele Perry's quest for justice and to understand why her homeless brother, Morgan Wayne Perry, was killed in a knife attack by a young private school graduate.

Actor John Wood introduces the story of Pat Murphy, a farmer who's doing it tough after a coal mine opened next to his property. Now Pat wants to leave the area, but that's easier said than done.

Renowned climber Paul Pritchard returns to Tasmania's notorious Totem Pole to tackle the climb that nearly killed him eighteen years earlier and left him partially paralysed with a massive head injury.

Medico Khaled Naanaa caused a global outcry by exposing the deliberate starvation of civilians in Syria. But doing so made him a target. Now he's been given a new life in Australia. #AustralianStory (Final for 2016)

Mojgan Shamsalipoor came to Australia in 2012, aged 17, after fleeing terrible abuse and trauma in her home country, Iran.The young asylum seeker found sanctuary in Brisbane, living in the community while her application for a protection visa was assessed.She fell in love and married a young Iranian refugee, Milad Jafari, and attended a supportive high school where she regained her self-confidence and became a popular student.But her dreams of a happier future came crashing down.When Australian Story first told of the challenges Mojgan faced, in July last year (Gone Girl, Jul 25), she was in immigration detention with no prospect of release.A lot has changed since then. Mojgan has been released back into the community on a bridging visa, but it will expire this month and her future remains uncertain.

Blindsided by her mother's shock suicide, newspaper columnist Nikki Gemmell's search for answers takes her down the rabbit hole of the euthanasia debate.

Reigning world surfing champion Tyler Wright reveals how her campaign for the title was almost derailed when her brother Owen was seriously injured in a surfing accident.

Two brothers Mal and Mike Leyland were pioneers of outback documentary-making, first setting off to Central Australia in 1960. But after a failed tourist project, they fell out and never fully reconciled.

Peter Lyndon-James is a former ice addict and criminal now running Australia's strictest drug rehabilitation centre. At Shalom House in Perth, addicts go cold turkey with surprising results.

A veteran's campaign to preserve a rickety little fishing boat, in which fourteen "Z Special" commandos undertook one of Australia's most audacious missions of WWII.

Channeling Mr Woo: From a humble migrant background to internet stardom, maths teacher Eddie Woo is changing lives by providing free maths lessons worldwide on his Wootube site.

As they work to regenerate their historic property of Wooleen in WA, newlyweds David Pollock and Frances Jones risk alienating their neighbours in the community where David grew up. #AustralianStory

With his award-winning script for Lion, Luke Davies has become one of Hollywood's most celebrated screenwriters. But he found success only after overcoming years of addiction and despair. #AustralianStory

With country people dying of heart disease at a rate far greater than their city cousins Dr Rolf Gomes pioneered a mobile cardio clinic. Thanks to a mystery million-dollar benefactor he's now about to build another Heart Bus.

The story of Sam Goddard and his family's efforts to help him following a series of strokes. They defied medical advice, travelled overseas for treatments & experimented with an illicit substance... with remarkable results.

As a child fleeing civil war in Africa, Mayor Chagai found solace in basketball. Now he's coaching a new generation of sporting champions among the Sudanese community in Sydney.

Ossie Cruse has been healing divisions in this country for 50 years. Now in his 80s he's inspiring his community to re-establish an ancient pathway where Aborigines first reached out to white settlers.

When a 20-year-old backpacker is murdered during a working holiday in rural Australia her grieving mother uncovers a world of sexual, financial and psychological exploitation.

After her daughter is brutally murdered while on the 88-day farm-work scheme, English woman Rosie Ayliffe travels to backpacker hotspots in Australia to lobby for change.

The Sydney dad who defied convention and took his autistic teenage son backpacking across Africa. The results could revolutionise the study of autism.

Sam Dastyari was the ALP's rising star until he was forced to resign from the Shadow Ministry last year over a political donations scandal. Tonight, the Senator speaks exclusively about lingering criticisms of his conduct.

She jumped off a bridge to end her life only to wake up in the ER after a miracle survival. One woman's story of recovery and making the most of a second chance at life.

Supermodel Robyn Lawley and her agent Chelsea Bonner take on the fashion industry to challenge its portrayal of the female form.

Grant Edwards was once Australia's strongest man. But what he was exposed to as a top Federal Police Officer forced him to confront his own devastating vulnerability.

Remembering Fiona Richardson, the Victorian Minister who passed away from breast cancer on Wednesday. The nation's first Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence, she had her own traumatic experience of domestic abuse

The extraordinary story behind R U OK? Day. After advertising executive Gavin Larkin started the suicide prevention movement, he found out he was anything but ok. Nine years on, his legacy continues to sustain his own family.

When partners John Guthrie & Dennis Cash decided to foster traumatised teenage girls, their friends thought they were crazy. But two decades later, the 'daughters' & 'Dads' have morphed into a remarkable 21st century family.

Standing at just over a metre tall, Kiruna Stamell has knocked down every barrier in her way to forge a successful career as an actor and dancer.

Professor Tony Attwood has revolutionised our approach to Asperger's syndrome, credited with being a world expert in diagnosis and treatment and viewing it not as a condition to be 'fixed' but a gift to be valued.

For Belinda Green, beauty was a ticket out of a difficult childhood. She was crowned Miss World in 1972 and was Australia's "It Girl" during the '70s.But something was missing in her life. She began caring for injured wildlife and eventually met an extraordinary vet, Dr Howard Ralph, who inspired a new career path.Now in her sixties, Belinda Green is studying to become a veterinary nurse while volunteering with Dr Ralph in his remarkable wildlife surgery in Braidwood.

Forty years ago, Waverley Stanley's life changed when a teacher saw something special in the young indigenous student & arranged a boarding school scholarship. Now Waverley is extending the same opportunity to others.

Socceroos Coach Ange Postecoglou speaks his mind ahead of Australia's do-or-die World Cup qualifying matches against Honduras. Postecoglou confronts the critics of his strategy and addresses speculation about his future.

For 20 years, Elisha Rose has lived with the secret shame of having a multiple murderer for a father. Elisha became a lawyer and tried to atone for her father's sins through charity work, keeping her secret until now.

Part One of an exclusive look back at the life of legendary broadcaster Mike Willesee as he faces his greatest challenge - a diagnosis of throat cancer.

Part Two of an exclusive look back at the life of legendary broadcaster Mike Willesee as he faces his greatest challenge - a diagnosis of throat cancer.

An exclusive Australian Story investigation into the death of Justine Damond Ruszczyk, the Australian woman shot dead by a Minneapolis police officer after calling 911 to report a crime.Sydney woman Justine Damond Ruszczyk was living in Minneapolis and weeks away from her wedding when she was shot dead by a US police officer in shocking circumstances that are yet to be explained. (Final for 2017)

When scientist Jim Bowler discovered an ancient skeleton in outback New South Wales 44 years ago, he had no idea it would change history. But Mungo Man's descendants have been fighting for the return of his bones ever since.

From Sydney's Western Suburbs all the way to London's Covent Garden, Australian dancers Steven McRae and Alexander Campbell compete for the ultimate prize in the world of dance.

When medical student Dinesh Palipana was left a quadriplegic after a horrific car accident, he was told he would never become a doctor. Now he's one of the top young medicos in a busy hospital.

Outback nurse Gayle Woodford was working alone at night in the remote community of Fregon when she vanished. This investigation reveals the issues behind her disappearance and the dangers for medical staff in the outback.

The Matildas are the "darlings" of Australian sport right now. But for 40 years they've been fighting for equality, recognition and the right to play the game they love.

Over the past year since Australian Story first profiled Eddie Woo, his career has skyrocketed. He's gone from suburban high school maths teacher to award-winning celebrity.

When Justin Yerbury's family members began to die from motor neurone disease he made a life-changing decision. He turned his back on a professional basketball career and enrolled in a science degree. Almost 20 years later, he is an internationally recognised expert on the disease, leading the way in the search for a treatment.

From bullets to books: After five overseas deployments, former commando Mick Bainbridge was at breaking point. When he sought help, he says Defence treated him like ‘a leper'. But instead of getting mad, he waged a new war. After an intensely personal battle, Mick Bainbridge is now helping other young soldiers take up the fight.

Brisbane woman Emma Betts was living her dream as an aid worker in East Timor when someone suggested she have a mole on her back checked. Then her whole life changed. This is a story of how a young woman inspired a generation to be sun safe.

It's a decade since Dassi Erlich and her two sisters began campaigning to bring their former headmistress Malka Leifer to justice. As they edge towards their goal they reveal the personal cost of their extraordinary battle.

It's a decade since Dassi Erlich and her two sisters began campaigning to bring their former headmistress Malka Leifer to justice. As they edge towards their goal they reveal the personal cost of their extraordinary battle.

Introduced by Dr Glenn Gardener, Director of Maternal Fetal Medicine at Mater Mothers' Hospital in Brisbane.Australian Story catches up with Harvey Fitzgibbon, the baby who underwent ground-breaking surgery in 2016 while still in the womb."Claudine's situation was unique, with a story that really I hadn't come across before." Dr Glenn Gardener"There were risks involved for mum and bub and trying to weigh it all up – it comes to a point in time where you just have to say, look, go for it or don't." Dave Fitzgibbon "I feel like all of our children have a place in our lives that fits well now. I feel like something wonderful has come out of that loss." Claudine Fitzgibbon When Claudine Fitzgibbon became pregnant with her fourth child she had already endured two heartbreaking terminations following diagnoses of spina bifida.When she and husband Dave received the same diagnosis for a third time they were desperate for another option.It was then they were told of a procedure that had just taken place in Australia for the first time – complex surgery to correct the physical abnormalities associated with spina bifida while the baby was still in the womb.It was a gamble but Claudine and Dave were determined to give their baby a fighting chance.In October 2016, Harvey entered the world to the relief off all concerned.But many questions remained. Would he still be badly affected by spina bifida? Would he ever walk?This week, Australian Story visits the Fitzgibbon family to see how baby Harvey is travelling and whether their big gamble paid off.

Australian Story this week profiles Morris Stuart, a charismatic choirmaster who takes a group of women from central Australia to Germany on an unlikely and remarkable road trip.This episode is introduced by film critic David Stratton."When he suggests things I just think he's crazy sometimes," Rob Borgas, friend."He can teach a song in five minutes, it's quite astounding," Barbara Stuart, wife.When Morris Stuart arrived in Alice Springs he was at a loose end.The retired pastor and choirmaster had travelled reluctantly to the outback at the urging of his artist wife.Not one to stay idle, he walked down the central mall and approached locals to see if they wanted to join a choir. Within a year Morris moulded the 50 amateur singers into a top-notch choir.Word soon spread to the Aboriginal community and particularly to groups of women who liked to sing. They wanted Morris to turn them into a proper choir too.But then a remarkable thing happened.They sang their own songs for Morris, German hymns they'd been taught by their elders, the musical legacy of German missionaries from the 19th century who travelled to the red centre."I was astonished when I first heard them singing those songs. It was almost like a central desert secret," said Morris when he heard their repertoire.Then came a crazy idea - what if they took the songs back to the place from where they had come?So began an unlikely and inspiring trip from the deserts of central Australia to the cathedrals of Germany, a trip that changed the lives of each and every one of them.

Introduced by Dr Norman Swan.A dedicated father stuns the medical world as he attempts to find a cure for his son's illness."The worst part was we could see the fear on his face when Massimo would try and sit up." Sally Damiani, mother"I don't think I'd ever come across a parent quite as driven to find the cause of his child's disease." Rick Leventer, treating neurologistWhen Stephen Damiani and his wife Sally were first told that their baby boy Massimo had a mysterious disease, the first thing they did was hit the medical textbooks.With the clock ticking, and without any scientific or medical training, Stephen threw himself into the complex and arcane world of genetics.When Stephen helped isolate the gene that was responsible for his son's type of leukodystrophy, he not only shocked the scientific world he surprised himself."It's the ongoing joke. I failed the Year 11 chemistry exam and ended up being published in the American Journal of Human Genetics." Stephen DamianiAustralian Story first told the remarkable story of the Damiani family four years ago.Since then Stephen and Sally have made huge strides in their efforts to find a cure for this disabling and deadly disease of the central nervous system. Now they are at the forefront of cutting edge research taking place in laboratories in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane."We've gone on to identify another 30 patients around the world with this exact condition. We owe it to Massimo to finish the mission he started." Stephen Damiani

When the body of Mark Haines was found on the train tracks near Tamworth in 1988, police quickly dismissed any idea of foul play. But after a 5 year investigation, journalist Allan Clarke believes he may have found the truth.

As journalist Allan Clarke digs deeper into events on the night Mark Haines died he discovers more about his last few hours. As he cracks the case wide open he is led to the man he believes is the killer.

Introduced by chef Alastair McLeodBy Christmas 2011 Queensland chef Matt Golinski was on top of his game. He had a successful catering business and a national media profile courtesy of the Ready Steady Cook television show.But when a fire tore through his Tewantin home on Boxing Day his life and career plans were destroyed in minutes. Matt woke from an induced coma two months later to the news his wife and three children had died in the fire and that he had serious burns across his upper body. "I just sort of went, God, really?You spent eight weeks keeping me alive? Why would you bother," he recalls.A painful and protracted rehabilitation followed and many of Matt's friends and family doubted he would find a passion for life ever again. But almost even years on, his career is flourishing and he's found new love and a second chance at fatherhood.For the first time on television he describes how he overcame the unthinkable and found a new passion for life.

Introduced by Nicholas Cowdery, former NSW Director of Public ProsecutionsKathleen Folbigg is serving a 30-year prison sentence for killing all four of her infant children.During her 2003 trial the court heard that Caleb, Patrick, Sarah and Laura were all killed by a mother who was driven to smother her children in fits of rage.Having exhausted her rights of appeal, Folbigg has her hopes pinned on the outcome of a petition seeking a judicial review of her case.Drafted by a Newcastle legal team and submitted three years ago to the NSW Attorney General's department, the petition argues amongst other things that some of the medical evidence against Folbigg during the trial was flawed.During this program we hear from Kathleen Folbigg for the first time, as she speaks out from behind bars about her conviction and the incriminating diary entries that were instrumental in securing the jury's guilty verdict.We also hear from the then NSW Director of Public Prosecutions Nicholas Cowdery, who remains firmly of the belief that the jury got it right.

Introduced by actress and Wayside ambassador Claudia KarvanGraham Long's decision to retire presented a real challenge for Sydney's Wayside Chapel. How best to replace a visionary pastor who had served the city's homeless and vulnerable for 14 years?When Graham took over as pastor in 2004, the iconic Sydney institution had gone to wrack and ruin. Under his leadership, it grew from a crumbling drop-in centre for the homeless to a vibrant community offering a range of services for those in need.Graham always remembered a young social worker-turned-pastor he had met in Western Sydney. Jon Owen had thrown in a comfortable middle-class existence in Melbourne to move his family to Sydney's Mt Druitt and run a mini version of the Wayside from his lounge room.Jon joined Wayside Chapel as assistant Pastor in 2016, and after a robust international search, he successfully won the role as CEO and Pastor in 2018.Now installed as the new pastor, Jon is proving a popular choice, bringing generational change and continuing the same unconditional love that the Wayside is famous for.

From a homeless alcoholic living in the wild to academic success and a book deal, Out of the Woods tells the inspiring comeback story of forest-dweller Gregory Smith.When he left school at 14, dogged by the crushing assessment that he was "functioning at the lower level of the dull range", Gregory Smith had already endured a violent upbringing and months in an orphanage after the break-up of his family.At 35, struggling with a lifetime of trauma, he opted to escape into the wild with no desire to return to the society that had failed him so dismally.Exhausted by years of living off the land and sleeping rough, Gregory emerged from the forest ready to change his life, and gained an undergraduate degree and then a PhD at Southern Cross University.His story offers hope for the most damaged amongst us. "Gregory represents the capacity for transformation against all odds and a real triumph over adversity," says one of his students, Kerry Pritchard. "How to take the crap in life and grow beautiful things out of it."

She was a wife, a mother, a sister and a daughter. Lyn Dawson had everything to live for, so why did she disappear without a trace 36 years ago?Her husband Chris, a PE teacher, always insisted she abandoned him and their two young daughters to "sort things out". Days later he moved his teenage lover into the family home. Two coroners concluded Chris Dawson murdered his wife but to this day, he has never been prosecuted.The case has gripped audiences around the world since the release of a new podcast, The Teacher's Pet, by investigative journalist Hedley Thomas.Australian Story first covered the story 15 years ago. This next chapter features exclusive interviews with friends and family of Lyn Dawson and those charged with enacting justice, both then and now.

Introduced by Wiggles founder Anthony Field."I think my health was a real start for me to think about myself, and to think about how healthy I was in myself emotionally and spiritually and physically."Emma WatkinsAustralian Story goes behind the scenes of Australia's most successful children's group to chart the extraordinary rise of Emma Watkins, the first female Wiggle.And in a television exclusive, Emma reveals the circumstances behind her separation from Purple Wiggle Lachlan Gillespie, who she married in 2016.Also featuring interviews with Gillespie, Wiggles founder Anthony Field, Wiggles manager Paul Field, Emma's doctor and her family, The Show Must Go On offers an intimate portrait of one of Australia's most popular performers.When three members of the original Wiggles line-up retired in 2012, Emma, a dancer with the group, was as surprised as anyone to be offered the yellow skivvy. The Show Must Go On reveals the challenges faced by new line-up and the key role Emma played in the revitalisation of the band."Emma is number one. She's the Elvis of The Wiggles. You look into the audience, 60, 80 per cent of the children are dressed like Emma."Anthony Field, WiggleAs Emma's star continued to rise, her health was failing. Despite collapsing several times, she ignored her worsening symptoms until she was finally diagnosed with endometriosis at the beginning of this year. "Once I saw Emma it was crystal clear she had endometriosis and she's just been ignoring it and pushing it by the wayside."Professor Jason Abbott, surgeonHer decision to go public about her illness brought much-needed attention to the disease, which affects one in 10 Australian women.As Emma reveals to Australian Story, it was her health problems that led her to re-evaluate other areas of her life and ultimately her decision to separate from Lachy.Emma speaks candidly about her return to the stage after surgery, the breakdown of her marriage and her enduring love for her former partner and fellow Wiggle.

Introduced by business reporter Alan Kohler.When the owner of the Whyalla steelworks went into administration two years ago, crippled by $4 billion worth of debt, the future of the entire town was at risk.Known as the place ‘where the outback meets the sea,' Whyalla is a one company town where the steelworks is the only large employer. "If the steelworks sneezes, Whyalla catches a cold. Two years ago, the steelworks got a coronary." Stephen Stanley, cartoonist, Whyalla News. With 3000 jobs on the line administrator Mark Mentha flew to South Australia to face the most challenging job of his career.If Mentha could find someone to turn the ageing steelworks around, the town might be saved. If not, a community of 20,000 people would be left in the lurch."Our worst fear would be if the town was shut down… it'd be the end of life as I know it." Larisa Waters, engineer and fourth generation steelworkerMentha pitched a controversial plan for the entire workface to take a 10 percent pay cut in the hope it would make the business attractive to buyers. Desperate to save their town and their livelihoods, workers agreed."I can throw my hands in the air and sulk… or I can throw myself at it with everything I've got." Stuart Monroe, union representative and steelworkerTwelve months later, when British steel billionaire Sanjeev Gupta bought the company he paid tribute to the workforce."It was an amazing sacrifice, and it gave me confidence that if I bought this business, I would have a great force behind me to turn it round," he told Australian Story. "I would say that Whyalla is a town that saved itself."The program features exclusive behind-the-scenes access with Sanjeev Gupta as he takes over the reins of the ailing steelworks and moves his young family from the UK to a grand mansion in Sydney. And in his first in-depth interview in Australia, he explains why he's so attracted to the country and why he thinks manufacturing needs to draw on renewable energy to move forward.

Introduced by actor Teresa PalmerTaryn Brumfitt is the Adelaide mother-of-three behind a global movement inspiring women to make peace with their bodies.Like many mothers, Taryn loathed her post-baby shape and threw herself into dieting and bodybuilding to attain the ‘perfect' body. Realising it was an impossible ideal, she made the choice to love her body instead and posted a photo of her "real" body online … and the response was extraordinary. Taryn started a movement, made a documentary and is now knocking on Hollywood's door to spread the message that women should embrace the skin they're in.

Samuel Symons, son of TV personality Red Symons, inspired everyone around him during his courageous battle with cancer. He passed away last week at age 27. His mother Elly introduces this Australian Story from 2010.

Prince Harry has spoken exclusively to Australian Story ahead of The Invictus Games.He introduces an episode profiling Blackhawk helicopter crash survivor Garry Robinson.Founded by His Royal Highness, The Duke of Sussex in 2014, the Invictus Games is an international sporting event for wounded, injured and sick servicemen and women, both serving and veteran.Next week in Sydney, 500 competitors of all abilities will gather for the fourth Invictus Games, which uses the power of sport to inspire recovery, support rehabilitation and generate a wider understanding and respect for those who have served their country.One of those competitors will be Garry Robinson who credits His Royal Highness and the Invictus Games with saving his life.In 2010, the former commando narrowly survived a Blackhawk helicopter crash in Afghanistan which claimed the life of three of his colleagues - Tim Aplin, Scott Palmer and his best friend, Ben Chuck, as well as one American serviceman.Garry's physical injuries were extensive and included a traumatic brain injury.After two years in hospital the former elite commando returned home but struggled to see a future.His life changed when he competed in the inaugural London Invictus Games in 2014 emerging with a new sense of confidence, purpose and pride."I've seen guys pass away through suicide and depression. I've just been fortunate that the Invictus Games have given me the that sense of belonging … I'm definitely thankful that Prince Harry has given me the opportunity to do that." Garry Robinson.In this episode, The Duke of Sussex presents a heartfelt introduction to Garry's story and reflects upon the unique problems faced by injured soldiers. The ABC is the official host broadcaster of Invictus Games Sydney 2018, held from 20-27th October.

Over many years, Australian Story has followed the efforts of farmer Peter Andrews to drought-proof the land.His unorthodox approach, which involves planting weeds and installing 'leaky weirs', was once considered heretical but a growing band of supporters has taken up his causeAt Mulloon, outside Canberra, Tony Coote and a group of like-minded landholders set out to prove that the Andrews method works.Now, during one of the worst droughts in living memory their results are cause for hope and have attracted the eye of Prime Minister Scott Morrison.

When Australian Story first filmed with Dr Justin Yerbury, the world-renowned scientist's research into motor neurone disease had taken on a terrible urgency. Diagnosed with the disease in 2016, his condition had begun to deteriorate dramatically.By last Christmas he was unable to breathe unassisted and without major surgery to provide permanent mechanical ventilation he wouldn't survive.Determined to continue his search for a cure and spend more time with his family, he had the operation and when the episode aired early in the year he was in ICU, struggling with post-operative complications. He would remain there for six months.But the past couple of months have seen some remarkable developments. Not only has he finally returned home, he is now going into the office two days a week to continue his vital research into the disease.Australian Story caught up with Justin and his family to record his astonishing progress.

When former Deputy Prime Minister Tim Fischer and his wife Judy learned that their young son was autistic, they were told he would probably never have a job or live independently.But Harrison Fischer, now aged 25, has defied everybody's expectations.Harrison has a job helping primary schoolers in Wodonga, is paying tax and has his own home.As his father Tim Fischer, one of Australia's most-loved politicians, battles a life-threatening illness, Harrison's growing independence is a source of joy for the Fischer family.

Introduced by former Wallabies captain John EalesBy the time this year's Queensland schoolboy rugby union season was over, four teenagers had broken their necks, their lives changed forever.Two of them, Conor Tweedy and Ollie Bierhoff, should have competed against each other.Instead, after separate accidents a week apart, they found themselves side by side in the Spinal Injuries Unit contemplating quadriplegia.In hospital, both boys threw themselves into their recoveries.One had a recovery deemed ‘miraculous'; for the other, the road back is much steeper.

Introduced by Rosie Batty.As Western Australia reels in shock from a succession of family mass murders, Perth advocate Dr Ann O'Neill offers a powerful message of hope.Twenty-four years ago, Ann's estranged husband killed their two children and left her an amputee. She turned her grief into good and rebuilt her life to become one of the country's leading trauma experts.In this update of a powerful episode from 2004, we follow Ann as she works with the Margaret River community in the wake of May's horrific mass killing.As she helps those struggling with sudden loss, Ann offers hard-won wisdom about how to carry on in the face of sadness and grief.

Introduced by Magda SzubanskiWhen Kerryn Phelps first spoke to Australian Story in 1998 she was a celebrity TV doctor with no public political aspirations.Twenty years later she defied the odds to pull off the upset political victory of the year, winning former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull's blue-ribbon Sydney seat of Wentworth as an independent following his departure from politics.But making history is nothing new for Kerryn Phelps and wife Jackie Stricker-Phelps. Dr Phelps was the first female leader of the Australian Medical Association and is a long-term community health educator and same-sex marriage advocate.We join Kerryn Phelps and her family and friends behind the scenes to learn about the extraordinary personal events leading to her new career in Canberra and ask: can she win Wentworth a second time when next year's federal election comes around?

Introduced by Jack Rush, senior counsel to the Royal Commission into the Black Saturday bushfiresAs the 10th anniversary of the Black Saturday fires approaches and the nation braces for another devastating bushfire season, we examine the fatal Churchill blaze and the investigation that led police to the enigmatic arsonist, Brendan Sokaluk.The story retraces Sokaluk's footsteps on the day and delves into his past to look for clues to why he lit a fire on a day of extreme fire conditions. His actions led to the death of 11 people and the widespread destruction of property, wildlife and bushland.Featuring never-before-seen police interview footage of Sokaluk, The Burning Question asks what we can learn from the events of that day and how we can use this case to identify potential arsonists in the future.

Introduced by writer Elizabeth FarrellyIn a television exclusive, the untold story of James Ricketson, the Australian filmmaker locked up in Cambodia for 15 months on espionage charges.Ricketson endured squalid conditions and failing health as he found himself a pawn in much larger game of Cambodian politics.Meanwhile in working for his release his family faced a dilemma — to go along with the Australian Government's "softly, softly" diplomatic approach or ceding to James's demands to shout injustice from the rooftops and risk even harsher punishment (final for 2018).

Introduced by actor and director Simon BakerWhen screen legend Jack Thompson checked himself into Sydney's St Vincent's Hospital last year, he had no idea how sick he was.Unbeknown to Jack, his kidneys had failed and he was 48 hours away from death.Told that he would have to go on dialysis three times a week for five hours, he realised his acting career was in jeopardy.The film he was about to shoot was set in remote Kakadu, 250 km away from the nearest dialysis unit in Darwin.It looked like he would have to pull out of the movie — until a big purple truck came to the rescue, a gesture of friendship and respect from the Territory's Indigenous community.

Tim Duncan was a junior doctor, on the brink of leaving medicine for a film making career, when he found himself in desperate need of medical care.Lying by the side of an outback road, with critical injuries, he knew his only hope for survival was immediate medical attention.In that moment, as his life was ebbing away, Tim made a pact: if he survived, he would devote himself to emergency medicine.

Revisit the life of legendary broadcaster Mike Willesee who died of throat cancer on Friday. Mike's career spanned five decades, shaping current affairs in Australia and was known as the best interviewer in the business.

Introduced by Norman Swan, ABC Radio National Health ReportIt's widely accepted nowadays that pregnant women shouldn't take any medication unless it's absolutely necessary. But in the early 1960's that wasn't the case.Reassured by their doctors, thousands of women around the world took the drug thalidomide as a treatment for morning sickness, only to be faced with babies born with catastrophic disabilities.Born in March 1963, Lisa McManus is one of Australia's youngest survivors. She's leading a group who have taken their fight to Canberra's Parliament House, in a last ditch battle for recognition, compensation and an apology.

This week's Australian Story takes viewers behind the scenes of the Australian effort to separate Bhutanese conjoined twins Nima and Dawa.It took a village of medicos, health workers and volunteers to bring them to Australia, perform the ground-breaking operation and assist in their five month recovery.The story features exclusive interviews and vision, including the first moments the toddlers reunite with their father in Bhutan as newly independent individuals.

Introduced by Osher GünsbergWriter and comedian Rosie Waterland has made a successful career out of seeing the funny side of her traumatic childhood. Whether it's growing up with alcoholic parents, hiding from welfare workers as a "houso" kid or finding her father's 'dead' body', the darker things got in Rosie's life, the funnier she became.But as Rosie's star was rising, the trauma of her childhood caught up with her. It's been her three sisters, torn apart as children when the family disintegrated, who've been the ones helping her back to wholeness.

The extraordinary story of Behrouz Boochani, the man who won Australia's richest literary award but remains unable to set foot in this country.The stateless refugee, who's in detention on Manus Island, smuggled out his entire book text by text on a smuggled mobile phone.In January, No Friend But the Mountains won the $100,000 Victorian Prize for Literature,Born during the Iran-Iraq war and suffering persecution as a Kurd in his homeland, Boochani fled Iran, seeking refuge in Australia.Arriving on Christmas Island four days after the government toughened its stance on refugees arriving by boat, he was taken to Manus Island where he has remained for five years.This is the story of determination to celebrate life, even when virtually all hope of escaping a hellish situation has been dashed.

Introduced by Myf WarhurstThe Seekers were the trailblazers of Australian music in the 1960s, knocking heavy hitters such as the Beatles off the top of the charts in the UK and taking the US by storm.Best known for their unique blend of harmonies and the voice of Judith Durham, the band were unlike anything of their time.Now, fresh off the back of a record deal featuring their final tour, The Seekers are taking part in the first television documentary since their split 50 years ago. All four band members Athol Guy, Bruce Woodley, Judith Durham and KeithPotger discuss their music, the impact of sudden fame and the painful fallout from their famous parting.

Introduced by Cate Blanchett.Jocelyn Moorhouse and PJ Hogan are two of this country's most celebrated movie directors. The success of their debut films had Hollywood calling and they have since worked with some of the biggest names in film.They are also the parents of four children, two of whom have severe autism. And the experience of raising those children has shaped their personalities and careers.Jocelyn gave up her career to concentrate on her son and daughter's therapy. She didn't expect to direct again.But in 2015, 18 years after making her last film, she made a triumphant return with The Dressmaker.In this intimate portrait, the family speaks candidly about the challenges, heartbreak and unexpected joys of living with two severely autistic children.

Introduced by John DoyleHow far would you push yourself for a cause you believe in?Australian CEO Mina Guli, 48, is on a mission to draw attention to the global water crisis. In order to do that she attempted a physical feat so extreme, most people would consider it impossible — running 100 marathons in 100 days across the world.Mina is driven by urgency: By 2030, it's estimated the demand for fresh water will outstrip supply by 40 per cent.But when her body literally broke during marathon 62, Mina thought all was lost.Unexpectedly, the campaign took on a life of its own.

Introduced by Mal LeylandWhen 21-year-old Menindee farmer Kate McBride came across thousands of dying fish in her beloved Darling River she was determined to tell the country what was happening.She posted the pictures on her family's Facebook page and the images went viral."I don't think there's a way to put into words what seeing millions of dead fish on the river that you've called home for your whole life is," she remembers. "It was just pure devastation… these animals were suffering."By the time truckloads of fish were disposed of at the town dump, Kate was emerging as a fierce advocate for the health of the Darling River and a leader to watch.She's been documenting local health concerns about water supplies from the river and is pushing for a Federal Royal Commission.

Introduced by musician Ben FoldsKate Miller-Heidke opens up to Australian Story about the private pain behind the very personal song she is performing at the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest.In what is a candid insight into one of the world's leading "vocal gymnasts", the singer reveals the challenges of motherhood and how she overcame her struggles.Inspired by the experience, she wrote a song, Zero Gravity, which she will perform at the semi-finals in Tel Aviv, Israel.Out of the Box features interviews with family, friends, and music legends Tina Arena and Ben Folds in this exhilarating backstage pass to the world's largest song contest.

Australian Story celebrates the extraordinary life and career of Bob Hawke, Australia's 23rd and most popular prime minister, who died aged 89 on 16th May 2019.Hawke won four elections, becoming Labor's longest-serving prime minister and overseeing profound economic and social reform. Eventually Hawke's fruitful relationship with treasurer Paul Keating soured and he lost the leadership of the party, bringing to an end a stellar career.Hawke approached his final years content with his life and proud of his achievements, saying "I don't think about death, I'm not frightened of death".This intimate portrait features extensive archive, including rare photos from the family's private collection, and revealing interviews with Hawke, his biographer and second wife Blanche D'Alpuget and his three children.

Introduced by Western Australia's Attorney-General John QuigleyWhen Pamela Lawrence was brutally murdered in her Perth shop in 1994 police focused their investigation around one suspect, Andrew Mallard.He quickly became the victim of a miscarriage of justice, spending twelve years in jail for a crime he didn't commit.Mallard's family fought successfully to release him, enlisting then WA Shadow Attorney-General John Quigley and journalist Colleen Egan who uncovered a trail of deception and police misconduct.In this updated episode of Andrew Mallard's story, Australian Story talks to the friends who stood by him until his untimely death last month.

Introduced by Wentworth actor Leah PurcellThis week's story tracks the fall and rise of Debbie Kilroy — from high security women's prisoner to high-profile crusading lawyer.Debbie was sentenced to six years for drug trafficking. She began university studies in jail and made history when she became the first woman with a serious conviction to be admitted as ‘a fit and proper person' to the bar of Queensland.Earlier this year, Debbie mounted a spur-of-the-moment crowd-funding campaign to pay off the court debts of Indigenous women incarcerated in Western Australia for defaulting on fines.The campaign raised over $400,000 and has led to the release of 11 women from prison.

Introduced by former foreign minister Julie BishopAnthony Maslin (Maz) and Marite Norris (Rin) faced the unimaginable when their "whole family was shot out of the sky".Malaysian Airlines flight MH17 was struck by a missile over a Ukrainian warzone in 2014.The couple's three children, Mo, Evie and Otis, along with their grandfather Nick Norris, became the faces of a senseless war crime.As the five-year anniversary approaches, Maz and Rin share, for the first time, how they are coping with their loss and moving forward with strength, positivity and compassion.

Australian Story returns with the story of Yoshe Taylor, a Queensland mother duped into smuggling drugs for an international syndicate.In this two-part exclusive program, Australian Story investigates how a web of lies intertwined to gain Yoshe's trust in a man named "Precious Max", whom she'd met on a dating site. He promised friendship, business opportunities and emotional support before inviting Yoshe to Cambodia several times. It was on her third trip that authorities found 2kg of heroin stitched into a bag she was carrying.Yoshe Taylor is speaking out for the first time since being released from a Cambodia prison in a surprising legal victory to warn others of the scam that's turning innocent people into unsuspecting drug mules.

Part 2 of Yoshe Taylor's incredible fight for justice as she speaks out for the first time since being released from a Cambodian prison to warn others of the scam that's turning innocent people into unsuspecting drug mules.

Introduced by Australian Story producer Ben CheshireRemembering the late Tim Fischer, who died on August 21, 2019, age 73.A widely respected and quirky political figure, Mr Fischer's remarkable career began as a 20-year-old conscript fighting in the jungles in Vietnam and ended in the Vatican as Australia's top diplomat.But the Boy from Boree Creek (a tiny town near Wagga Wagga) made his greatest contribution in politics as the deputy prime minister, and will be remembered for the key role he played in reforming Australia's gun laws.Recently as his health faded, Tim's family invited Australian Story to join them on what turned out to be one of his last trips to his home town of Boree Creek. By train, of course.

It was the unlikely rag tag bunch of people that became a musical phenomenon. Choir of Hard Knocks put homelessness in the national spotlight, but 13 years on from the ABC documentary, where have their voices led them as a new choir master takes over the mic?

When ABC broadcaster Jill Emberson was told she had ovarian cancer, she opted to go public and go loud. Fighting the deadliest of all women's cancers, Jill decided to advocate for more awareness and funding.

As he prepares to celebrate his 80th birthday, an uncharacteristically reflective Paul Hogan looks back over his remarkable life and career. Featuring unseen photos and candid insights from family, friends and colleagues.

After the success of Crocodile Dundee, Paul Hogan had the world at his feet. But when he left his wife of 30 years for co-star Linda Kozlowski the media turned. Candid insights from Paul, his family, friends and colleagues.

Emma and Richard Austin endured ten years of gruelling fertility treatment in their quest for a baby. Forced to abandon their dream, a surprise offer came from a couple facing the dilemma of managing their leftover embryos. The gift became baby Henry.

Brothel madam Shirley Finn was shot through the head on a Perth golf course in 1975. After her daughter's 10-year battle to discover who killed her mother, an inquest hears fresh allegations of possible police involvement.

More than 70 years after an unidentified body was found on an Adelaide beach, a solution may be in sight to the long running mystery of the Somerton Man. Will modern DNA testing finally give him a name and unearth the truth?

Released on parole after 12 years of incarceration in Bulgaria for murder, Jock Palfreeman's fight for justice saw him caught up in a bitter political struggle threatening Bulgaria's diplomatic relationship with Australia.

Craig Foster built a formidable reputation as a football player and broadcaster. But when Bahraini footballer and refugee Hakeem Al-Araibi, was imprisoned in Thailand, he led a global media campaign to fight for his freedom.

In the NSW mid-north coast town of Kempsey, principal Mark Morrison brushes close to the rules to give troubled teens their last chance at a high school education. He seems headed for a record number of student graduations.

Vincent Fantauzzo went from menial jobs and petty crime to painting portraits of Heath Ledger, Julia Gillard and wife Asher Keddie. He describes his dyslexia as a gift allowing him to see the world from a unique perspective.

After almost killing herself through alcohol abuse, Shanna Whan started a movement to change the pervasive culture of alcohol in rural Australia. Now she travels the country with the message "It's OK to say no to a beer."

17-year-old Ursula Barwick vanished without a trace in 1987, leaving her family in limbo for three decades. When the truth was finally revealed it raised serious questions about the police investigation.

Introduced by NSW Australian of the Year, Dr Munjed Al MuderisLate last year Ghanim Al Shnen was working on a building site when a metal bar he was holding struck overhead wires. He suffered catastrophic injuries that resulted in the amputation of both his arms.Now, in a world-first procedure, he is being fitted with two robotic arms that he will control with his mind. Overseeing this complex process is renowned orthopaedic surgeon Dr Munjed al Muderis.The two men have much in common. Both fled Iraq in fear of their lives, arriving in Australia by boat. Boat spent time in detention centres where they used the time to educate themselves.To adapt to a life with no arms is profoundly difficult but Ghanim has impressed everyone with his resilience, positivity and good humour.Australian Story filmed with Ghanim over six months, following this medical miracle as it unfolded.

Minutes after entering the water in the Whitsundays, Tasmanian woman Justine Barwick was fighting for life following a shark bite. As the shark control debate continues, she tells her remarkable story for the first time.

From a homeless alcoholic living in the wild to academic success and a book deal, the next chapter in the amazing comeback story of forest dweller Gregory Smith. (Final for 2019)

A cyclist found dead on a country road with very few clues as to who hit him. Against all odds, two country cops track down the driver, only to discover he is connected to another death.

Concluding the two-part story about one man who has killed two people. The man was convicted of killing a cyclist on a lonely road but is still to face charges relating to the shotgun death of his wife six years earlier.

When Marlion Pickett took to the field in the 2019 AFL Grand Final, it set the scene for one of the most heart-warming moments in sporting history. Follow the father of four's journey from three years in jail to AFL debut.

The journalist and comedian paying a high price for dissent. Vicky Xu is an outspoken critic of China whose pursuit of stories about human rights and the mass detention of Uyghurs means she doesn't feel safe to return home.

Shane Jenek is the man behind drag queen superstar Courtney Act. It hasn't always been easy for Shane reconciling himself with Courtney's popularity but together they're conquering the world via reality television.

Three sisters from Melbourne's insular Jewish Adass community return to Israel to investigate why it's taking so long to extradite their former headmistress Malka Leifer back to Australia to face sex abuse charges.

As Australia faces an unprecedented pandemic, we track the experience of five Australians on five different days: a choirmaster, an intensivist, a scientist, a psychiatrist, and a school principal - each has had a unique response to the crisis.

The touching friendship between jazz musician James Morrison and his long-term mentor Don Burrows, who passed away on the 12th of March 2020 after a long battle with dementia.

Two elders from Cape York entrusted Victor Steffensen with the ancient knowledge of cultural burning. Could this method of fire management used by generations of Indigenous people be the answer to Australia's bushfire threat?

Actor Sam Neill is a Kiwi but has done much of his best work in Australia. He talks life, love and his other grand obsession: making wine.

During the worst bushfire season in Australia's history, NSW fire chief Shane Fitzsimmons stood out. A rebellious child with a troubled background Shane's personal loss and resilience have made him a truly outstanding leader.

When Tim Sharp was three, his mother Judy was told he had severe autism and should be put in an institution. Now at 32 Tim is an artist whose work is exhibited around the world. The epic tale of a mother's love and devotion.

John Doyle and Greig Pickhaver, better known as Rampaging Roy Slaven and HG Nelson, provide a rare insight into the special chemistry behind their enduring comedy act. 

From his carport-turned-studio in Melbourne, Adam Hills introduces 3 stories about the novel, positive and hilarious ways performers have found to keep themselves working and entertained during the COVID-19 pandemic.* Well-known actors Lucy Durack, Wayne Hope, Robyn Butler and Eddie Perfect got together and created an isolation rom-com in 17 days.* Country music star Beccy Cole and wife Libby O'Donovan have come up with a unique way to keep up live performances without breaching restrictions.* And a story that has to be seen to be believed: the fake Russian choir "Dustyesky" from Mullumbimby has become a viral sensation in Russia during the pandemic.

For the first time on TV, an in-depth look at how Australia survived the influenza pandemic of 1918. Long-forgotten archival material not only provides a unique insight but shows uncanny parallels to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Nathan Cavaleri was seven years old when he found international fame as a prodigy on the blues guitar. Now at 38, he talks about the childhood stardom that both inspired and haunted him.

Actor Joel Edgerton gives a candid account of the challenges he's faced on his long road to Hollywood success and how his family helped him stay true to himself. (Part 1 of 2)

In Part 2 of this candid account of the actor and filmmaker's 25-year career, we focus on Joel Edgerton's rise to the top, the anxiety attacks he now grapples with, his charity work and making sense of 'a selfish life'.

Rugby league legend Greg Inglis reveals the real story behind his mental health struggles and how he turned his life around.

The inside story of the campaign to solve an enduring crime mystery. The body of Scott Johnson was found at the bottom of a cliff in 1988. Police decided it was suicide but his brother was convinced it was a gay hate murder.

After nearly seven years in limbo on Manus Island, an audacious plan was hatched to get Kurdish refugee Behrouz Boochani to freedom in New Zealand.

When Jamie Pultz left the police, there was one case he couldn't drop: the suspicious death of young Queensland mum Kirra McLoughlin. His podcast investigation turned up some startling discoveries. (Part 1 of 2)

Kirra, 27, had been with her new partner for less than a year when she died and Jamie believed there was a lot about his story that didn't add up. When nobody was charged over the mother-of-four's death, he joined forces with Kirra's mother to discover some surprising new leads. The wheels of justice finally started turning last month when a coronial inquest began.

When drought almost sent him broke, fifth generation Cooma sheep farmer Charles Massy converted to regenerative agriculture to heal his land. A PhD led to a book and now he's the 'philosopher king' of a growing movement.

Introduced by ABC Chair and journalist Ita ButtroseThe Aunty Jack Show burst onto our TV screens in the early 1970s, revolutionising Australian comedy with its surreal and outlandish sketches.One of its stars was Rory O'Donoghue, best known as Thin Arthur, who sang the show's hit song Farewell Aunty Jack and dazzled audiences with his musical talent.A gifted composer and performer, he played the role of Peter in the hit musical Jesus Christ Superstar, worked alongside Aunty Jack creator Grahame Bond in a host of stage productions, and wrote the theme music for shows like Bush Tucker Man.Whilst hugely popular, behind the scenes Rory O'Donoghue lived with a crippling secret. Now family and close friends are ready to share his story in the hope of triggering a vital conversation.

Di McDonald was told Max Gardiner was 'a good catch'. But when she ended their months-long relationship, he terrorised her for years. Determined not to let him break her, Di recounts the exclusive story of how she brought her stalker to justice.

Desperate and alone in her 3-year battle against an obsessive stalker, Di McDonald meets young policewoman Beck Norris who takes on the case. Norris enlists the FBI profiler who caught the Unabomber. Can they finally bring Di's stalker to justice?

Quaden is a nine-year-old with dwarfism who just wants to fit in. When his Mum posted a video to social media of Quaden distraught after a tough day at school they could not have predicted what would unfold. They reveal how they triumphed over the trolls.

Singer Megan Washington went public with a 'shameful' secret six years ago and then stopped making music. In this update she describes the long road back to a new album and why the best art happens out of your comfort zone.

An outback town, a newspaper in trouble and an unlikely saviour. Broken Hill is fighting to keep its century-old newspaper alive but can the Barrier Truth's owners and loyal community steer it through its toughest time yet

Serial killer Bradley Edwards hid in plain sight for nearly 25 years. Australian Story reveals the extraordinary twists and turns that led to police cracking the case and revisits the families of two of his victims.

On Christmas Day two years ago Mick O'Dowd was feeling unwell. 24 hours later he was battling for his life. The life-affirming story of Mick and Katharine O'Dowd and the silent killer most people have never heard of.

In the season finale, Australian Story meets an 81-year-old inventor who's saved the lives of hundreds of premmie babies and checks in with the hilarious Dustyesky 'fake Russian' choir for a special Christmas performance.

16-year-old teen Bob Bramley takes to the skies to break a solo flying record and shine a light on youth mental health, galvanised by the desperate struggles of his two friends.

Scientist Veena Sahajwalla is a recycling revolutionary whose bold new ideas are helping reduce landfill. Now she's unveiling her latest brainchild, an invention which turns the discarded into the designer.

Unique and outrageous, Jeanne Little was the comedy dah-ling of daytime television in the 70s and 80s. Four months after her death from Alzheimers, daughter Katie reveals some intimate family secrets.

Promising young swimmer Shayna Jack was destined for the Olympics until she failed a routine drug test. But is the evidence against her justified or has she been caught up in an over-zealous anti-doping dragnet?

Drawing on her own experience of trauma, comedian Magda Szubanski forms an unlikely alliance with teenager Will Connelly, aka Eggboy, to help combat mental health issues in bushfire-ravaged communities.

She's the glamorous lawyer representing high-profile clients like Julian Assange and Amber Heard. Jennifer Robinson charts her meteoric rise from small town public schoolgirl to the pinnacle of legal life in London.

Sexual slurs, baseless rumours, harassment and abuse - former Federal Labor minister Kate Ellis has been investigating Canberra's toxic culture, speaking to female politicians from all parties. Now they're breaking their silence, calling out the systemic misogyny in our federal parliament.

Mao's Last Dancer Li Cunxin and his wife and daughter's dramatic story of sacrifice, questioning and the painful journey towards reconciliation.

Identical twins Brigette and Paula Powers are so close they live and work together and even speak in unison. After a chance meeting with Steve Irwin, they now use their unique connection to save injured seabirds.

A recent coronial inquest reveals the catastrophic errors made by NSW Police which left teenager Ursula Barwick's fate a mystery for almost 30 years.

He's one of Australia's most successful and famous painters. But what has been the cost of fame for the children of acclaimed artist John Olsen? (Part 1 of 2)

Part two of an inside look at one of Australia's greatest artistic dynasties. In this concluding episode, a court case threatens to derail the family of acclaimed painter John Olsen.

The Seekers blazed a trail for Australian music in the 1960s with a number of chart topping international hits. But fame led to fallout and they split at the height of their success. The group reunites to reminisce about their ride to the top and to reveal the pain behind their famous split.

Dr Michelle Telfer is a world leader in providing treatment for children and teens with gender dysphoria, guiding them through their first steps towards transitioning. But her work isn't without its critics and controversies.

When women's soccer star Rhali Dobson received an on-field marriage proposal, the pictures went viral around the world. It was a story of love, sport and sacrifice - and a heart-wrenching plot.

Keith Woodford's life went into freefall when his wife was murdered working on call as a nurse in a remote South Australian Indigenous community. Five years later his journey to find answers and improve the system takes a new twist as an inquest delivers some breakthrough findings.

An unlikely friendship forged on the tennis court between a homeless man and famous tennis pro leads to lifechanging events and a new beginning.(Midseason Final - Australian Story returns on Monday 2 August)

In the first of a two part special, we find out how a gentle kid from Fremantle ended up playing alongside Michael Jordan in the world's greatest team, the Chicago Bulls. Luc Longley's extraordinary story One Giant Leap.

From running with the Chicago Bulls to his omission from The Last Dance documentary, Luc Longley sets the record straight.

A mother's battle to bring her daughter's killer to account pays off when a coroner's inquest leads to a breakthrough.

A daring sea rescue led by the Australian Navy saved 99 people from certain death. Forty years later, the survivors meet their saviours in an emotional reunion.

In a case of life imitating art, iconic Aussie actor Michael Caton channels his beloved character from The Castle to fight for the underdog. Caton knows he's in the home straight of his life and wants to make the most of it.

One of the nation's biggest cold case mysteries takes a new turn when 'Somerton Man' is unearthed from an Adelaide cemetery in the hope that his DNA might finally reveal the secrets he took to his grave.

Dr Jamal Rifi has given up his retirement dreams to fight COVID from his front yard in the middle of the nation's Delta outbreak.

The story behind the story of the family at the centre of a tug of war between a small country town and the big end of government.

Behind the scenes of the AFP investigation into Australia's biggest insider trading case, where two young men united by deception are brought down by greed.

Charlie Veron has spent his career underwater charting the world's coral wonderlands. Now, as the Great Barrier Reef faces its biggest threat, he reveals an audacious rescue plan.

Like the characters in his blockbuster novels, author Matthew Reilly is no stranger to persevering through loss and setback. Now he's realising the childhood dream that inspired his career - directing an action movie.

Funnyman Max Gillies has been making people laugh all his life. Now at almost 80, he reveals the hidden family grief he has carried with him, and how comic acting became a welcome escape from his troubles at home as a child.

The heartwarming next chapter of Australian Story's most popular program ever proves love really does conquer all. Checking in with Gayle and Mac Shann.

Athlete, mother of four and reality TV star Jana Pittman talks about her new life as a doctor and her regrets about the period when she was labelled 'Drama Jana'.

A Sydney family takes on the Minneapolis police department in a long-running court battle to hold officer Mohamed Noor accountable for the death of Justine Ruszczyk.

Lauren Burns fought to find her anonymous sperm donor father. As she becomes a parent, she's back campaigning to make it easier for donor-conceived children to find their biological family, and make donations more accessible.

Outspoken Australian of the Year Grace Tame looks back over a tumultuous and life-changing 12 months.

Introduced by: Rove McManus.At home with Australian cricket legend Glenn McGrath as he and his growing family continue to honour the legacy of his late wife Jane, who died from breast cancer more than 13 years ago.Glenn looks back over a glittering cricket career and the achievements of the McGrath Foundation, which is well on the way to achieving its goal of providing a free breast care nurse to every breast cancer patient in Australia.Glenn and Jane's children, James and Holly, speak publicly for the first time about their mother's legacy, the crucial role Glenn's second wife Sara had in their upbringing and their growing involvement in the McGrath Foundation.

After falling for a man whose life was a carefully constructed web of lies, journalist Stephanie Wood meets other women with uncannily similar experiences.

Magician Arthur Coghlan's death-defying escapes in the 1970s earned him the title of Australia's Houdini. Now in his late 80s he reveals the stories behind his most terrifying stunts and how he's passed the magic onto his daughter.

Having spent more than 12 years in jail for murder, Scott Austic was acquitted after revelations of planted evidence. Now the family of victim Stacey Thorne is demanding police reopen the investigation to find her killer.

Having spent more than 12 years in jail for murder, Scott Austic was acquitted after sensational revelations. Now the family of victim Stacey Thorne is demanding police reopen the investigation to find her killer.

A young couple brave extreme weather and isolation to tackle Australia's extinction crisis, successfully reintroducing long-lost native animals back into the remote Sturt Desert.

How the loss of her stillborn daughter set billionaire philanthropist Nicola Forrest and her husband Andrew on the path of pledging to give away the "vast majority" of their mining fortune.

Former golden girl of the pool Lisa Curry has lived in the spotlight for decades. We've seen her weddings, babies and divorce. Now Lisa opens up about the heart-wrenching loss of her daughter Jaimi.

Bon Scott was set to become an international rock star with AC/DC when he died suddenly in 1980. Now for the first time, family and friends open up about his vulnerabilities and state of mind leading up to his untimely death.

Cathy McGowan is considered the "godmother" of the Independents movement that's dominating the election. The former member for Indi is also its secret weapon, sharing her insights with candidates across the country.

Co-author of Puberty Blues Kathy Lette has mined her life for stories since her teens. Now post-menopause, she opens up about her life and determination to age disgracefully.

A notorious bank robber destined for a life in prison discovers a new path when he confronts his hidden trauma. Now he's assisting others to seek justice for crimes long buried, but it's been a rocky road to redemption.

The story of how self-described 'small town drunk' Shanna Whan transformed her life to become Australian of the Year Local Hero and is now changing attitudes to booze in the bush.

From dirt poor beginnings, actor, writer and director Leah Purcell is now at the top of her game, weaving her family's complicated history and her own troubled past into a powerful reimagining of a classic Australian tale.

In the working-class town of Port Kembla, a small funeral home is transforming the way we deal with death and sparking a quiet revolution in the process.

A devoted aunt investigates the mysterious death of her niece Amy Wensley, throwing doubt on the police case and exposing devastating investigative failures.

Concluding the story about the mysterious death of Amy Wensley. As her family fights for justice, they discover a flawed police investigation and devastating forensic oversights. (Midseason Final)

Missing for 40 years, Lyn Dawson's sister and brother never gave up hope they'd find justice. Behind the scenes as her siblings prepare for the outcome of her husband Chris Dawson's murder trial and digest the guilty verdict.

Senate powerbroker of the moment David Pocock on the forces that drew him to politics and why his background as an international rugby star helped prepare him for his biggest test yet.

One man's decade-long mission to expose the extent of an alarming chemical contamination scandal. Then, with no medical training, firefighter Mick Tisbury found an ingenious solution to help those who'd been exposed.

When middle-aged insurance executive Greg Donovan was made redundant, he was told to play it safe. Instead he gambled his payout on a crazy idea to build the world's most remote music festival - and won.

Controversial rugby coach Michael Cheika has never been in greater international demand. So why is he taking a lowly ranked team to the Rugby League World Cup?

How five surfers from Byron Bay, in one of the biggest heavy metal bands in the world, turned to therapy to confront their past, save their career and rebuild their friendship.

Remembering singing legend Judith Durham and the trailblazing band who put Australian music on the map.

When Citipointe Christian College issued an enrolment contract asking parents to agree homosexuality was a sin, the protests of students sparked a firestorm around the rights of religious schools to practise their beliefs.

After his dazzling career comes unstuck, musician, actor and provocateur Tim Minchin reassesses his comedy, questions the dangerous allure of fame, and finds home is where the heart is.

From a "nerd" named Sharon to one of Australia's most loved celebrity chefs - how Poh Ling Yeow has refined the art of reinvention and made peace with her past.

After more than 70 years, one of Australia's most enduring mysteries - the identity of the "Somerton Man" - is finally solved.

As the ABC's 90th year draws to a close, Chair Ita Buttrose reflects on a life in the spotlight and how six decades as a pioneering female journalist and magazine editor helped prepare her for one of the ABC's toughest jobs.

His ideas caught the eye of the US President. Now engineer Saul Griffith is making waves at home, joining his local community in an ambitious project to electrify their suburb and power it with renewables.

Australian Story profiles psychologist Wayne Warburton, here to help parents with kids who are addicted to video gaming.Many parents will tell you they're worried their children are spending too much time playing video games and are desperate about what to do.Wayne Warburton, a plumber-turned-psychologist, reckons he can help.Together with German researchers, Dr Warburton, from Macquarie University, has devised a 3-month program to help the minority of teenagers who are gaming excessively and who feel they've lost control of their lives.Caleb, 13, and Rhys, 15, who both joined the program, got drawn more deeply into gaming through the Covid lockdowns."It's living on the edge, never quite knowing what's going to happen next when they are distressed around their lack of ability to game", says Jude, Rhys' mother."When my behaviour had been at my worst, I was probably like throwing stuff, yelling, kicking things, punching walls", Rhys admits.When Jude heard about the work of Wayne Warburton, she thought ‘hallelujah'.Warburton says studies show excessive gaming can change the brain and inhibit impulse control, making some gamers aggressive."I've seen numerous cases of parents needing to take apprehended violence orders against their kids because they become so violent when the screens are taken away", he says.Australian Story has gained exclusive access to follow Rhys and Caleb as they embark on this ground-breaking program to try and change their lives and take control of their gaming habits. But will it work?Producer: Janine Cohen

Valerie Taylor burst onto our TV screens in the 60s, stunning viewers by diving with dangerous sharks. She shares home movies, recalls acting in Skippy and reveals the moment that made her a shark advocate. (Part 1 of 2)

Shark legend Valerie Taylor takes us behind the scenes of the hit film Jaws and inside her campaign to save the grey nurse shark. Still diving at 87, she's inspiring a new generation of marine warriors. (Part 2 of 2)

Actor and producer Claudia Karvan speaks openly about her chaotic childhood and the challenges of managing her late father's mental illness. And she reveals how she mines her unconventional life for her drama.

From a Sydney loungeroom, a mother and son take on a perilous mission to evacuate children and staff from their Afghan orphanages following the Taliban's return to power in 2021. Can they pull it off?

Monday's Australian Story is an update on a previous story profiling Mick O'Dowd.Mick O'Dowd has survived the unthinkable. Four years ago, he contracted a sepsis infection and nearly died. The price he paid to live was high: the amputation of his limbs."What's the other option?" Mick asked his wife Katharine at the time, as he struggled to understand the enormity of what lay in front of them. "The other option is not to go through with it and not stay with us," she told him.Three years since first speaking with Australian Story, Mick O'Dowd and his family have come a long way.Mick is gradually gaining some independence.He's now able to do some of the things he loves. He's learning to swim and scuba dive again. And he's back on the water, sailing solo, with the help of volunteer group Sailability."It's the enjoyment of actually doing something independently," says Mick. "It's absolutely incredible, I can go out and sail this boat all by myself."But it's not all plain sailing."I can tell when Mick's having a down day, when he's a bit more quiet than usual," says Katharine. "But those down days aren't very common.""Sometimes I feel I've made no progress because I still require a lot of help, "says Mick. "But then when I reflect on it...I've come a long way. Life's good."

Love, loss and sailing the world solo: Jessica Watson takes us inside her amazing voyage as a teenage sailor, speaks about the grief of losing her partner, and a new feature film which has thrust her back into the spotlight.

Introduced by Leigh Sales, "Call of the River" is an update to the 2019 episode: "Cry Me a River".From accidental activist to Parliamentary liaison, young farmer Kate McBride has come a long way in four years.In 2019, Kate alerted the world to mass fish kills in the Darling River via a video she filmed of her distressed father holding a dead Murray Cod.To Kate's surprise, she soon became the face of efforts to save the Darling River and was tipped as a future leader.Now aged 25, Kate McBride has left her family farm near Menindee in western NSW and taken a job with a public policy think tank in Canberra where she's an advocate for the bush.Kate has also been dealing with a personal dilemma – questions around the succession of her family's property. It's been brought on by generational differences over how best to manage the land in a time of climate change.

Actor Heather Mitchell's life has been as dramatic off screen as it has on. And she's channelling those experiences into some of the greatest performances of her career.

One woman's decades-long quest for justice. Beth Heinrich was permanently changed by what she experienced as a teenager. Now in her 80s, she's spent almost half her lifetime chasing the Anglican Church to right past wrongs.

How a 52-year-old woman gave birth to her grandson. When Michelle couldn't have children, her mother offered to be a surrogate. Her sister-in-law did too. Now Michelle and her husband Jono have the family they dreamed of.

The remarkable story of a woman taking part in Australia's first psychedelic-assisted therapy trial. For Lindy Bok, it's a profound and deeply emotional experience as the treatment helps her confront anxiety around death.

A story of art, fame and family. The late John Olsen, one of our most beloved painters, had an obsessive focus on his work, often casting a shadow on those around him. John and family open up about art and the cost of fame.

Mick and Jamie bonded over coding as teenagers. Now their brilliant tech idea is transforming lives around the world. Their software could have made them rich but instead they've kept it free to help the blind community.

Australian Story's coverage of Kathleen Folbigg's case helped kickstart the scientific research that ultimately freed her. Watch the updated story of her fight for freedom over the last twenty years.

Buried memories and family secrets - how hit podcaster Hugh van Cuylenburg's quest to help people gain a positive mindset took him on his own path of self-discovery and forced him to face some uncomfortable truths.

As a child, Megan Davis fell in love with the Constitution. Now she's a lawyer and a driving force behind the Voice referendum. She wants to change the nation's founding document in the hope of improving her peoples' lives.

Her unconventional approach to surviving in the wild captured the public imagination. Now reality TV star Gina Chick shares how connecting with nature helped her through unimaginable loss.

Erica Packer, former wife of billionaire James Packer, opens up about the deadly genetic mystery shadowing her family and the scientists working to crack the code for thousands more Australians.

War correspondent Dean Yates thought he was indestructible but when two of his staff were gunned down by the US military in Iraq, he & his family reached breaking point. Now he's trying heal the wounds of war and help others.

When three Newcastle teens became overnight rock stars, their world exploded; huge concerts and crowds, intense fame and scrutiny. Ben and Chris from Silverchair take us on that rollercoaster ride and say it's a miracle they survived.

Rockband Silverchair makes a comeback with its fifth album and a massive hit. But backstage, the wheels are falling off and the band finally fizzles out. For Ben and Chris, life after Silverchair proves to be bumpy too.

Designer Sam Elsom shocked friends and family when he ditched fashion to farm seaweed. Now he has developed a product that radically reduces methane emissions from livestock. But can he convince farmers to get on board?

Once a popular kids' TV host, Fiona MacDonald is on the trip of a lifetime. Since being diagnosed with motor neurone disease two years ago, she's driving around Australia to raise money for research, and have fun on the way.

When beloved film and TV star Sam Neill received a shock diagnosis, it forced him to take stock of his life. Now the actor is living with a rare disease, but it hasn't stopped him doing the work he loves.

When Kylie Met Sami: She was released from an Iranian prison only to find her husband had left her. He was reeling from the loss of his job and the end of his marriage. An awkward first date led to a second chance at love.

Five years after his first appearance on Australian Story, Dr Gregory Smith continues his astonishing transformation. Homeless and an addict for many years, Smith is now an academic, has received an OAM and found new love.

What ever happened to Elle McFeast? She wowed TV audiences in the 90s with her bold and brassy satire. Then a live interview derailed it all. McFeast's creator Libbi Gorr opens up about the fallout and how she fought her way back.

Meet the violin virtuosos from Brisbane who ditched a classical career to create an online music comedy act. Now Brett Yang and Eddy Chen have gone viral and are playing sell-out concerts around the world.

Singer Elly-May Barnes on stepping out of her famous father Jimmy's musical shadow, on the long road to the spotlight and how she channels her physical challenges into a powerful cabaret act.

With little more than a briefcase full of old photos for clues, comedian Annie Louey unravels decades-old secrets in a bid to understand who her father really was.

A doctor puts his life on the line to try and cure his own brain cancer, using the very treatment he helped pioneer to save melanoma patients.

After the Matildas' World Cup glory, star midfielder Katrina Gorry introduces us to the tiny secret weapon who rekindled her love for the game.

When the senseless death of teenager Cassius Turvey ignited fury across the nation, his mother Mechelle responded with a call for peace and unity.