The Virgin Mary at Coogee Beach
by Coogee Beach is one of Sydney’s most iconic beaches. In 2003, it was also the scene of a religious apparition, when the Virgin Mary appeared on a nearby fence railing.
The Wollemi Pine: A Living Dinosaur
The Wollemi Pine was a tree from the Cretaceous Period, living alongside the dinosaurs. It was thought to be extinct, until a surprise discovery in remote New South Wales.
The History of the Boxing Day Test
On December 26 each year, test cricket comes to the MCG in a celebrated local tradition. But the history of the Boxing Day Test is …
8 Major Cities That Changed Their Names
The world’s major cities seem as unchanging as the continents. But many of them have turbulent histories, and have changed hands, and names several times. …
The Disappearance of Harold Holt
Australian Prime Minister Harold Holt disappeared while swimming in December, 1967. Presumed drowned, later explanations included the CIA, China, and UFOs.
Foy’s Rooftop Funpark
The corner of Swanston and Bourke Streets used to be dominated by a giant Santa, and a fondly remembered department store. This is Foy’s Rooftop Funpark.
The Real ‘Annabelle’ Doll
‘Annabelle’ is a porcelain doll, possessed by an evil spirit, star of her own popular movie franchise. Now, meet the real Annabelle doll.
The Great Melbourne Flood of ’72
In The Great Melbourne Flood of ’72, a violent storm front buried the CBD under a surging torrent of water.
Alick Wickham and His Amazing World Record Dive
March, 1918: Alick Wickham, AKA: ‘Prince Wikyama’, completes a world record high dive in Yarra Bend Park in front of 60 000 people.
Australia’s First Movie Screening
Australia’s first movie screening came courtesy of a vagabond English magician, and a local promoter looking for a get rich quick scheme.