'Since the nineteenth century, the legend of 'The Bush' has provided a powerful set of ideas, values and associations that continue to influence the way Australians think and talk about each other. The legend was promoted by a number of writers, historians and critics known as the radical nationalists. This group included
Vance Palmer,
Brian Fitzpatrick,
Russel Ward and
A. A. Phillips.These writers argue that bush life is central to the attitudes, values and traditions that many people regard as 'Australian' and that these qualities derive from the experience of nomadic bush workers such as shearers, swagmen and drovers. The images, ideas and arguments that you encounter in this Trail will help you to better understand the origins of this legend and the reasons why the legend continues to be a powerful force in the way Australians construct their identity. But in the selection of texts and audio-visual resources you will also encounter challenges to a dominant white male perpspective. The legend of the Bush is a complex idea that deserves close attention.'
(Source: Compiler's abstract)
