The Incredible Journey

The nuclear explosion at Chernobyl on the 26th April, 1986, was the worst man-made disaster in history. 50 tonnes of radiation were released into the atmosphere. It contaminated millions of acres of forests and farmlands, causing death and destruction. The disaster provides insights into the devastating effects of sin. It also provides insights into sin’s cure and reminds us that one day soon, God will set things right and create a new paradise home for us.

Like most small towns and villages around Australia, Emmaville has its war memorial, complete with the names of those who volunteered from this area. But the name of Emmaville’s most remarkable son is not here, for by the time he enlisted, he had long moved away — Tom Richards. Richards' grew up to be an athletic young man, and his speed, strength and intelligent play led to his selection in the Queensland team in 1905 as a breakaway. His light brown hair led to the nickname of ‘Rusty’, and over the next thirty-five years, Richards would become the only man to represent both Australia and the United Kingdom in Rugby Union, and eventually the trophy for Wallaby-British Lions contests would be named after him. He would win a gold medal at the 1908 Olympic Games in London, and then be awarded the Military Cross for conspicuous gallantry on the battlefields of France.

"The Outback" is a colloquial name for the vast desert region that comprises most of Australia's interior. It describes the emptiness, remoteness, and the huge distances of inland Australia. In fact, nothing says 'Australia' quite like our Outback. And you can find a little of the Outback in every state of mainland Australia. The open spaces that seem to stretch on forever tell the story of the exploration and development of our red-brown land, and reflect Australia's pioneering spirit and unique identity. And nowhere is this more evident than in the live-stock industry, especially on the vast cattle stations that cover much of the Outback. In this episode we head to remote north-western Australia where dreams have always been big. While success in the Kimberley has often been challenging, that hasn't discouraged the young Indigenous stockmen and traditional owners who now hold the Roebuck Plains Station lease. Despite challenges they have built a successful cattle operation with a herd of over 20,000 animals in Western Australia. Today we're going to consider the ultimate Cattle Empire and discover how it affects each of us.

The Guinness Book of Records estimates that over 5 billion copies of the Bible have been printed throughout history. If you've ever picked up one of these copies and found it to be unlike any other book you've read, don't be too quick to dismiss it. You might have questions about why it is split into two sections, the "Old Testament" and the "New Testament"? Who wrote it, and when and where? Did one person write it all, or are there multiple authors? Is it an original work or a copy? However, perhaps the most important question is why so many people regard the Bible as sacred, calling it God's Book or the Word of God. Is there a compelling reason for this belief? These are all valid and significant questions. So, let's take a closer look at the greatest book ever written.

This is the place where East meets West in the heart of Europe. This is the place where Communism and Capitalism clashed. During the Cold War, the crossing point between the East and West was called Checkpoint Charlie and was universally known as the epicentre of the conflict. Throughout its history, it was a place of high tension and drama. It all began after the Second World War with the 1945 occupation of Germany. The United States and the Soviet Union began to emerge as ideologically opposed 'superpowers', each wanting to exert their influence in the post-war world. And unfortunately, Germany became the focus of Cold War politics. It was an era of secrets, spies, espionage, covert operations, agents and assassins. Many agents operated undercover and lived double lives to infiltrate enemy governments and societies. It was a time when information was king and fear and uncertainty ruled. Join us on a journey back to the Cold War, when Checkpoint Charlie held centre stage in the fight for freedom, as we take a closer look at the price of freedom and what freedom is – and as we do so, you may find the freedom you're looking for.

Throughout history, the Dutch have fought for important causes and become pioneers in social and economic changes that Europe and other countries have imitated. Known as a tolerant society, this has let important Dutch people leave their mark without judgment. Today, we will follow in the footsteps of one of the Netherlands' most loved and famous citizens, Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn (simply known as Rembrandt), whose talents and masterpieces have touched the hearts and lives of people worldwide for centuries. The life and works of this gifted Dutchman will highlight the typical Dutch character, creativity, innovation, and inherent capabilities for which they are famous. More importantly, his masterpieces will highlight how we can all find true happiness and inner peace. So, stay with us because Rembrandt's discovery, use and understanding of Light, could change your life forever.

Dinosaurs are the most spectacular creatures that have ever lived. They have been an intense source of fascination for many people. Both young and old love discovering more about these prehistoric giants that once roamed the earth. Lucky for us, outback Queensland has much prehistoric history to discover. So, let’s go on a journey along Australia’s Dinosaur Trail, which offers visitors a range of unique experiences not available anywhere else in the world. In our search for dinosaurs, we will visit the world-class bones and fossil discoveries in the towns of Winton, Hughenden, Richmond and Eromanga. This unique journey is going to be a fantastic experience. So join Gary Kent in our quest to find out more about the dinosaurs in Australia.

Rock and Roll demolished barriers, broke down walls, questioned every assumption and embraced every possibility. We should not be surprised that some of today's most influential people reference the music and message of this Golden Age as the inspiration for seeing the world differently. However, this Golden Age had a dark side. With all the money and fame came excess in every way, and out of this carnage came the "27 Club", which includes the rock stars who, uncannily, all died at the age of 27, Jimmy Hendrix, Brian Jones of the Rolling Stones, Jasin Joplin, and Jim Morison, and in recent years, it has added members such as Kurt Cobain and Amy Winehouse. What caused these stars to become members of the 27 Club? Why were they cut short at the heights of their creativity? Are there any messages that can be learned for us? By understanding their lives, can we live our lives brighter, fuller, more creative and meaningful?

Judea was ruled by Rome two thousand years ago, and in AD 66, a Jewish Revolt flared into a full-scale war that raged for four years – until the Roman general Titus destroyed Jerusalem. But one outpost alone held out against the Romans. It was the fortress of Masada built high above the Dead Sea on top of a barren mountainous plateau, and it's where one of the most heroic and incredible stories of all history was played out when a small group of Jewish Zealots defied the power of Rome. Due to its natural features, steep sides, and lack of easy access, the place is virtually invincible. Herod the Great also recognised this natural fortress's unique characteristics and strategic advantages. He was a Roman client king of Judea who ruled this region from 37 BC to 4 BC. He wanted a fortress, a place of refuge, in case the Jews should rebel against him or the Egyptian pharaoh Cleopatra, who wanted Judea, should try to have him killed. So, he fortified Masada with walls, gates and towers. This ancient stone fortress was also a place of safety for King David when he was threatened by danger during his fugitive years before he became king. Like Herod and the Zealots a thousand years after him, David recognised the strategic advantages of Masada. He realised that with its steep sides and difficult access, it was a perfect hiding place and easy to defend. He knew he could find safety there

Tony McLellan began his life out in the Australian bush on his family farm called Jumble Plains, which in its heyday was a successful sheep station in the Tullamore District in NSW. Tony's journey from the Australian bush to the pinnacle of international success is fascinating and inspiring. Perhaps the most significant aspect of Tony McLellan's story is his encounter with Jesus and the subsequent changes that took place in his life. These changes impacted countless lives through the Christian ministries that Tony founded. Join us this week as we take a look at the action-packed life of Tony McLellan and how he turned success into significance.

100% Pure New Zealand. Its unparalleled scenic beauty and amazing outdoor activities make it one of the most desirable places to live. In fact, Auckland, the largest city in New Zealand tops that world ranking. But Auckland has an ominous secret: it sits on over 50 volcanoes. New Zealand still has ten active volcanoes scattered across its north island. You see, New Zealand sits on the Pacific ‘Ring of Fire’, a 40,000km horseshoe-shaped belt of active volcanoes on the very rim of the Pacific Ocean. 75% of the world’s volcanos are in this ring of fire. All these Volcanos and thermal activity intrigue and fascinate us. Join Gary Kent on an incredible journey, as we look at some of the most devastating volcanic eruptions to hit New Zealand in recent times, the warning signs that were disregarded and the bravery and heroism of those who rushed to help, even at the risk of their own lives.

On the 7th of October, the militant Palestinian group Hamas launched a deadly attack against Israel. Over 5,000 rockets have been fired into Israel from Gaza. Hundreds of Hamas terrorists invaded Israel by land, and air. At least 1,400 Israelis have been killed and more than 3,000 injured by Hamas terrorist attacks. In response, Israeli jet fighters have hit hundreds of targets in Gaza. Many thousands of Palestinians have been killed and wounded in Gaza since Israel launched retaliatory air strikes, with over a million residents displaced. Gaza is under siege. Electricity, water, fuel, and medicine have been cut off. Is there a way to stop this endless cycle of violence? Join Gary as we look for these answers.

The town of Broome is often referred to as the pearl of North-West Australia. It's an exotic pearling town with history and culture as rich and vibrant as its landscape. Broome is home to the Pinctada Maxima, the largest pearl oyster in the World. Pearls remind us of the pearl of great price in the Bible. Watch the program and see how the pearl of great price applies to men seeking the kingdom of heaven and to Christ seeking His lost inheritance - you and me.

It's 70 years since one of the most extraordinary achievements occurred. This accomplishment is spoken of, remembered, and often used as the gauge of success. And so, it is no surprise that the name of this one man is carved indelibly into history. In his home country, he's considered a hero and has been voted the most admired person in the nation. He even has a commemorative five-stamp series to honour his status and achievements. He is the best-known New Zealander in the world. But it's not just his achievement as a mountaineer, the conqueror of Mount Everest, the first man, along with Tenzing Norgay to climb to the top of the highest mountain in the world that he is honoured. It's because Edmund Hillary showed us how an ordinary life can become a truly extraordinary one. He has shown us that greatness is possible.

Ancient records tell us that salt was a valuable trading item and merchants developed salt routes to transport it to sell to other countries. Salt even came to be used as a currency known as white gold and its history has been interwoven into countless civilizations for thousands of years. But what does the Bible have to say about salt? Well, if you would like to leave a legacy, make a difference in your world and be a blessing to others, then find out what it means to be the ‘salt of the earth.’

Kokoda, the defining battle for Australia during World War 2, is a testament to the courage and resilience of our soldiers. But there's an untold story of heroes who played a pivotal role during the gruelling Kokoda campaign: Thousands of Papua New Guineans from villages along the Kokoda Track stepped up as carriers and porters. They walked for miles, carrying heavy loads, while their bravery knew no bounds. These selfless men not only delivered vital supplies to the front lines but also undertook the daunting task of rescuing the sick and wounded, often guiding them through the treacherous mud. Join us as we pay tribute to these unsung heroes whose contributions during the Kokoda campaign are a shining example of human spirit, sacrifice, and unity.

Eating is one of the great pleasures in life. In fact, the average person spends a staggering 32,000 hours on eating in their lifetime. That’s nearly four years of non-stop eating. Amazingly, our gut makes up about 70% of our immune system and contains 1.5 to 2kg of bacteria – more than the weight of our brain. So, our gut is a big deal. Join Gary Kent as he meets with Dr. Delia McCabe, a nutritional neuroscientist whose research specialises in how the food we eat affects the way our brain functions. And in particular, we are going to look at how the food we place in our gut affects our brains.

German artist Albrecht Dürer's pen and ink drawing, 'Praying Hands', is one of the best-known works of art in the world. The story is told of how Albrecht studied art, returned to his village and saw his brother's gnarled, work-ruined hands, who had supported him by working in the mines. His brother, an aspiring artist, could no longer hold a paintbrush. Albrecht was so moved that he painted his brother's hands, the "Praying Hands", in thanks for his self-sacrifice. In this program, we follow in the footsteps of Albrecht Dürer into the world of the Renaissance and reflect on his masterpiece and the importance of prayer.

When the Nazis rose to power in 1933, they began a systematic campaign to exclude, expel and separate the Jewish community from various aspects of society. In 1941, the Nazis began to murder Jews indiscriminately. In the summer of 1942, the Ten Boom family began a covert underground operation in a little watch shop in Haarlem, Holland. They began to offer shelter to countless Jews, developing a vast network of contacts to relocate Jewish refugees to safe houses across the Dutch Countryside. Join Gary Kent as he looks at their remarkable story of compassion, forgiveness and sacrifice.