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Solstice Media
An independent daily news show. We feature the country’s best reporters, covering the news as it affects Australia. This is news with narrative, every weekday.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 5, 2023 • 16min
From ‘jokers’ to right-wing slogan masters
Explore the rise of Advance, a right-wing campaigning group in Australia, their controversial tactics during the 2019 election, and their transformation into a major political force. Discover their strategies, funding, and infrastructure, as well as the challenges of holding them accountable for spreading lies.

Nov 4, 2023 • 36min
The Weekend Read: Nicole Hasham on a Christian monument a decade in the making
A decade-long project of erecting a towering Christian cross in a remote Aboriginal community has attracted controversy and cost $2 million. Hollywood star Mel Gibson is involved. The monument is seen as a symbol of hope and a tourism attraction by some Indigenous people. The upcoming lighting ceremony is eagerly anticipated by locals. The podcast explores the history and impact of Christianity on First Nations peoples. A visit to the monument includes sermons, prayers, and a performance of Christian songs.

Nov 3, 2023 • 31min
Rupert: The Last Mogul: Two blasted young reds
In this podcast, the childhood experiences of Rupert Murdoch are described, highlighting his early traits as a media mogul. The unpublished manuscript unveils his campaign to save an innocent man's life. The narrator's experience working at Rupert's Australian newspapers and the political nature and ruthless streak of Rupert are explored. The chapter also discusses the betrayal suffered by Rowan, who was instrumental in Rupert's life. The impact of Rupert's pursuit of power and wealth on his contentment is also discussed.

Nov 2, 2023 • 15min
Are our leaders playing politics with war?
Paul Bongiorno, columnist for The Saturday Paper, discusses the lost bipartisanship over the conflict in the Middle East among Australian politicians. The podcast explores the divide and concerns about growing hostility towards Jewish and Islamic communities. It also delves into the political motivations behind Peter Dutton's rhetoric on Gaza, the breakdown of bipartisanship, and Asio's concerns about community tensions.

Nov 1, 2023 • 18min
Israel, Hamas and what comes next
Ian Parmeter, former Australian ambassador to Lebanon during Hezbollah's conflict with Israel, discusses the history of Hamas and its current role in governing Gaza. The podcast explores the difficulties in removing Hamas from Gaza and the lack of a clear solution. It also discusses the potential outcomes for governing Gaza and highlights concerns about international humanitarian law.

Oct 31, 2023 • 18min
'Interests not friends': Australia's $368 billion submarine gamble
Australia's $368 billion submarine deal with the US, concerns and criticisms raised by individuals in Washington, Australia's complex relationship with the US, concerns about the Australian submarine agency's handling of US nuclear submarines, the need for cooperation and partnership with the US while avoiding becoming an extension of the military.

Oct 30, 2023 • 17min
Why Australia refused to vote on a truce in Gaza
The podcast discusses Israel's ground invasion into Gaza and the destruction of communication capabilities. It explores Australia's abstention from voting on a UN motion for civilian protection in Gaza and the concerns behind it. The episode also raises questions about the future of the region and the consequences of escalation.

Oct 29, 2023 • 17min
Inside the new China-Australia relationship
Recent developments in China-Australia relationship include the release of journalist Cheng Lei, the scrapping of trade tariffs, and the upcoming visit by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. The podcast explores the perceptions of the relationship from both countries, Australia's expectations from Albanese's trip, efforts to re-establish ties and improve communication, and the implications of Albanese's visit for shaping the future of the China-Australia relationship.

Oct 27, 2023 • 7min
Rupert: The last mogul (Episode 0)
Investigative journalist Paddy Manning explores Rupert Murdoch's rise and impact as the media's most powerful man. From his humble beginnings in Adelaide to his global media empire, this podcast delves into Murdoch's fascinating persona, recent events like his retirement, and the legacy he leaves behind in the media landscape.

Oct 26, 2023 • 16min
What was the point of Albanese’s US trip?
This podcast discusses Anthony Albanese's successful US trip and his party's declining popularity back home. It explores the challenges and opportunities for the opposition to regain power, factors influencing voters including the Middle East conflict, the optics and discussions of Albanese's trip to the US, and the challenges faced by the Albanese government including updates on bushfires and pill testing services.


