Australia with Simon Reeve

Australia with Simon Reeve is an engaging, globe-trotting documentary television series that first aired in 2013 on BBC Two. This series is presented by the British author and television presenter, Simon Reeve, who is known for his adventurous travels to various parts of the world and his capacity for sharing his fascinating realities with viewers.

In this riveting show, Simon Reeve embarks on an epic journey around Australia, which is the sixth largest country on the planet and a land of staggering contrasts. The series is divided into three parts, with each part revealing a different facet of Australia. It captures the distinctive natural beauty, the varied wildlife, stunning landscapes, as well as the diverse urban life from coast to coast.

Australia with Simon Reeve kicks off in the 'red centre', the iconic heart of the Great Southern Land. Reeve explores the vast, arid wilderness of the Outback, showcasing both the harshness and the allure of this enormous desert area. The viewers are enlightened about the challenges faced by the local communities, the rural inhabitants, and the Indigenous Australian groups. The host's quest to understand the complex historical, cultural, and socioeconomic aspects of the country is insightful and thought-provoking.

In true Reeve's style, this series isn't just a run-of-the-mill travelogue. It delves into crucial issues affecting contemporary Australia. From the fallout of the mining boom, the climate change predicaments, the controversies of immigration detention centres, to the challenges posed by invasive species and environmental conservation, this series educates viewers about the critical issues facing the country. Simon travels to some of the most remote, inhospitable and least explored corners of Australia, meeting with aboriginals and immigrants to gain a more profound understanding of the country's social fabric.

The next leg of Reeve's journey takes the audience to the marvellous coastal regions. Australia boasts one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world, and he discovers the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef and the hidden beauty of the isolated island communities. His encounters with the local wildlife, including the deadly box jellyfish and the charming koalas, are thrilling to watch, showcasing the country's amazing biodiversity.

A trip to Sydney, where the presenter reflects on Australia's formidable colonial history and its transformation into a multicultural hub, followed by an exploration of the intriguing rainforest ecosystems in the northeast, reveals more of Australia's rich diversity.

Towards the end of the series, viewers accompany Reeve to Western Australia, where he explores the prosperous yet environmentally challenging mining industry that significantly contributes to the country's economy. Venturing into these mining towns and witnessing the stark contrast between their wealth and the poverty of the rural Aboriginal communities is particularly eye-opening. Reeve compellingly unravels complex narratives about the country's booming resources sector.

Australia with Simon Reeve is an entertaining and enlightening series rich in detail about Australia's history, cultural legacy, environmental issues, and contemporary challenges. This show, skillfully steered by Reeve's energetic presentation style, engaging interviews, and the splendid visual appeal, provides an enriching window into one of the most beautiful yet complex continents on earth.

Every episode of this series is a feast for the senses, offering viewers spectacular, in-depth insights into Australia’s unique juxtaposition of breathtaking natural settings, an abundantly diverse wildlife population, stark, secluded landscapes, bustling urban life, and indigenous Australian cultures. The inclusive approach to the indigenous populace of Australia and their longstanding issues prompts thought and dialogue on post-colonial realities.

In summary, Australia with Simon Reeve offers an engaging, comprehensive, and compelling perspective of Australia - a nation of striking contrasts. This series is bound to pique the interest of audiences worldwide with its unique blend of insightful narration, evocative imagery, breathtaking landscapes, and socio-political commentary. Whether you're a fan of travel documentaries or just love to gain a broader understanding of the world, this series is an absolute must-watch.