The Mysteries of Tennis
by From its unexplained scoring, to its murky origins, to the ‘Tennis Court Oath’: here are the mysteries of tennis.
When the Gregorian Calendar Was Introduced
The Gregorian Calendar was introduced in 1582, shifting the New Year and Easter, and removing 11 days from October. How controversial was it?
Il Porcellino: Sydney’s Lucky Pig
Drop a coin in his mouth, rub his nose, and good fortune could come your way: meet ‘Il Porcellino’, Sydney’s lucky pig.
The Origins of Christmas Tree Decorations
The origins of Christmas tree decorations include German Christians, Queen Victoria, and Thomas Edison’s business partner. Here are their stories..
The Lost Blue Lake of Melbourne
The lost blue lake of Melbourne was part of a wetland west of the city, swallowed up by Spencer Street station and surrounding development.
Ruth Hollick: Intuitive Pictorialist
Ruth Hollick was a pioneering Victorian photographer, the first Australian woman to have a solo exhibition in this country.
The World’s Largest Flower (and the World’s Smallest Bear)
Borneo is home to many exotic natural things, including the world’s largest flower, and the world’s smallest bear.
The Birthplace of the Ashes: Sunbury
The Ashes is cricket’s most famous contest, played between England and Australia. Less well known is the birthplace of the Ashes: Sunbury.
The Field Collection
The Field Collection at Melbourne’s Botanic Gardens contains cacti from around the world, a passion project for a local plant enthusiast, and an adventurous German botanist.
The Ta Prohm Stegosaur
One of Cambodia’s famous ruined temples contains an intriguing mystery: the Ta Prohm Stegosaur.