Author: Columnist

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.

Listen to the podcast episode here.

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. 

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.

Listen to the podcast episode here.

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. 

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 Calder – Sheep Pregnancy Scanners Conference

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.

Listen to the podcast episode here.

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.