Big Ideas Folgen

The arts industry has been slammed by Covid-19, with many thousands of events cancelled and artists out of work. Indigenous art has been particularly affected.  Aboriginal directors Wesley Enoch and Rhoda Roberts believe creative expression is so powerful it can help break down racial prejudice. But now, they fear that a generation of indigenous creatives might be left behind.

What does the Australian country town of Gundagai make you think of? The statue of the "dog on the tuckerbox"? The old folksong, Along the road to Gundagai? Or do you think of the great flood of 1852 – the deadliest in our history - and the remarkable heroism of two Aboriginal men who saved over 60 people, using their bark canoes. Writer, Anita Heiss, a Wiradjuri woman, talks to Paul Barclay about her new book, Bila Yarrudhanggalangdhuray, which celebrates unsung Aboriginal heroes, and the Wiradjuri language.

Blues legend Bobby Rush has recorded hundreds of songs, collaborated with the likes of Howlin’ Wolf and Muddy Waters, and headlined music festivals all over the world. At 87, he still tours more than 200 days a year, entertaining audiences with his unique funk-infused blues tunes. But Bobby Rush’s story is not just about music, but also one of racism and pain.