Living History with Mat McLachlan

Ep267: The Rats of Tobruk, 1941

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 04:03:08 GMT

Eighty-five years ago, 14,000 Australian soldiers were surrounded in a dusty Libyan port by Erwin Rommel's Afrika Korps. They were outnumbered, outgunned and cut off from the world. Nazi propaganda called them rats caught in a trap. They took the name and made it their own.

In this episode, Mat McLachlan tells the story of the Siege of Tobruk — 242 days that proved the German blitzkrieg could be stopped. Through the voices of the men who were there, we go inside the perimeter: the terror of a first night patrol, the nine-inch trenches of the Salient, the flies in the stew, the dust that turned sleeping men into waxed mummies, and the destroyers that slipped in through the darkness to keep them alive.

"Anybody that wasn't frightened was either a liar or a fool. We were all frightened, naturally. But we had a job to do and we did it." — Harley Brooks, 2/12th Battalion

From Corporal Jack Edmondson's Victoria Cross action on Easter Sunday to the bond between a mother and her fallen son, from General Morshead's red hat to Bob Semple — the last Rat of Tobruk, who died in 2024 aged 102 — this is the story of ordinary men who refused to be beaten.

And when it was over, the men who had conquered Europe had not conquered them.

Episode Length: 27 minutes

Features: First-person accounts from the AWM Keith Murdoch Sound Archive including Eric Brough MM (2/24th Battalion), Harley Brooks (2/12th Battalion), Max Thow (2/12th Battalion), Owen Curtis (2/12th Battalion), Alf Miller (2/4th Australian General Hospital), Jack Hawkes (2/28th Battalion) and General Sir Thomas Daly (18th Brigade HQ).

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Sail through history with Mat McLachlan! Join a 2027 history cruise: https://battlefields.com.au/history-cruises-2027

Find out everything Mat is doing with books, tours and media at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@MatMcLachlanHistory

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Ep266: Dernancourt, 1918 - Australia's Toughest Fight

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 13:00:00 GMT

In the spring of 1918, Germany launched its greatest offensive of the war. The British Fifth Army collapsed under the weight of it. And somewhere in the chaos of that retreat, on a railway embankment west of a small French village called Dernancourt, four thousand Australians were told to hold the line against twenty-five thousand Germans.

In this episode, Mat McLachlan tells the story of the Battles of Dernancourt, the 28th of March and the 5th of April, 1918, officially the strongest attacks faced by Australian troops in the entire war. Almost no one has heard of them.

Through the words of the men who were there, we follow the desperate defence of the railway embankment that linked two vital French towns. We meet Sergeant Stan McDougall, a Tasmanian blacksmith who single-handedly repelled a German breakthrough, burning his hands on the barrel of a Lewis gun before picking up a bayonet and charging — earning the Victoria Cross and then, eight days later at the same spot, the Military Medal. We hear Lieutenant George Mitchell's devastating account of watching his comrades retreat down a bullet-swept slope, tears running down his face. We read the letter of a German soldier, intercepted by Australian intelligence, describing the enemy opposite as men who "glide about in the night like cats." And we discover the story of two wooden crosses, found months after the battle, where German soldiers had buried Australian dead and written above them: "Here lies a brave English warrior."

Why is Villers-Bretonneux remembered while Dernancourt is forgotten? How did a handful of under-strength Australian battalions hold off multiple German divisions in the heaviest attack Australian forces ever faced? And what happened to the men of the 47th Battalion — who fought so hard at Dernancourt, only to be told two months later that their battalion no longer existed?

A powerful and long-overdue tribute to the Australians who held the line at Dernancourt. In a battle their country forgot.

"The battle of Dernancourt will live long in the annals of military history as an example of dogged and successful defence." — General Sir John Monash

Episode Length: 30 minutes

Features: First-person accounts from Lieutenant George Mitchell (Backs to the Wall), Private Ted Lynch (Somme Mud), Private Edmund Liddell, and Private James O'Rourke; the Victoria Cross and Military Medal citations of Sergeant Stanley McDougall; a captured German letter; and the remarkable story of the Dernancourt Cross, held today in the Australian War Memorial.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Sail through history with Mat McLachlan! Join a 2027 history cruise: https://battlefields.com.au/history-cruises-2027

Find out everything Mat is doing with books, tours and media at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@MatMcLachlanHistory

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Ep265: Nuremberg - Inside the Nazi Mind

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 04:42:53 GMT

In 1945, a young American psychiatrist named Douglas M. Kelley was given an extraordinary assignment: evaluate the 22 most senior Nazis awaiting trial at Nuremberg and determine whether they were mentally fit to face justice. Among his patients was Hermann Göring, Hitler's second-in-command, who was charismatic, manipulative and utterly unrepentant.

What Kelley discovered shook him to his core. Using Rorschach tests, IQ assessments and hundreds of hours of interviews, he concluded that these architects of the Holocaust were not clinically insane. They were psychologically normal: intelligent, ambitious opportunists who had made deliberate choices to pursue power at any human cost. There was no "Nazi mind." There was no psychiatric explanation that set them apart from the rest of us.

It was a conclusion the post-war world didn't want to hear. And it destroyed the man who reached it.

In this episode, Mat McLachlan talks to Jack El-Hai, author of The Nazi and the Psychiatrist, the book behind the 2025 film Nuremberg starring Russell Crowe and Rami Malek. Jack had unique access to Kelley's hidden personal papers: clinical notes, Rorschach results and private correspondence kept secret by the family for decades. He reveals the complex and ultimately fatal relationship between a brilliant psychiatrist and the most powerful Nazi to stand trial, and asks the question Kelley spent the rest of his short life trying to answer: if the men who built the Third Reich weren't monsters, what does that say about the rest of us?

Episode Length: 40 minutes

Features: Jack El-Hai discusses his research into Douglas Kelley's hidden archive, the psychology of the Nuremberg defendants, the Kelley-Göring relationship, the competing theories of the "Nazi mind" and why Kelley's warnings about authoritarianism went unheard until it was too late.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Jack El-Hai

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Sail through history with Mat McLachlan! Join a 2027 history cruise: https://battlefields.com.au/history-cruises-2027

Find out everything Mat is doing with books, tours and media at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@MatMcLachlanHistory

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Ep264: Sudan 1885 - Australia's First Deployment

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 02:49:43 GMT

In March 1885, thirty years before Gallipoli, 770 men from New South Wales sailed for the deserts of Sudan — the first Australian soldiers ever sent to fight in a foreign war.

In this episode, Mat McLachlan tells the forgotten story of Australia's Sudan Contingent — the part-time soldiers, weekend volunteers and colonial clerks who marched through Sydney in scarlet jackets to a crowd of 200,000, then crossed the world to serve alongside the Scots Guards and Grenadier Guards at Suakin. Through the soldiers' own words, we follow their journey from the excitement of departure to the brutal reality of an African desert — where the nights were more dangerous than the days, the enemy poisoned the waterholes, and the real killer wasn't bullets but disease.

From Acting Premier William Bede Dalley's extraordinary decision to send troops without consulting parliament, to the Guards' bewildered reaction to their colonial allies, from Private Robert Weir's father farewell — "I look upon you as going to your grave" — to the cruel death of Martin Guest, who survived the desert only to die in the rain at his own homecoming parade, this is the story of an expedition that achieved almost nothing militarily but changed Australia forever.

Nine men died. None of them in battle. All of them from disease. And out of those nine graves grew a tradition that would define a nation — the idea that when the call came, Australia would answer.

Historian K.S. Inglis called it "The Rehearsal." It was — for everything that came after.

Episode Length: 30 minutes

Features: First-person accounts from Private Tom Gunning, Lieutenant William Cope, and Private Frank Walters; primary source letters from the Nepean Times and Sydney Morning Herald; and the remarkable story of how forty baskets of fish gave a Sydney beach its name.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Ready to walk in the footsteps of those who fought? Join Mat McLachlan on an exclusive battlefield tour: https://battlefields.com.au/

Find out everything Mat is doing with books, tours and media at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@MatMcLachlanHistory

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Ep263: Korea - Operation Killer, 1951

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 05:21:52 GMT

In February 1951, while Australia slept, soldiers from 3RAR were crawling through knee-deep snow on frozen Korean ridgelines — fighting a war their own country barely noticed and has largely forgotten since.

In this episode, Mat McLachlan tells the story of Operation Killer — the brutal UN counter-offensive that turned the tide of the Korean War. Through the voices of the men who were there, we follow 3RAR from the catastrophic Chinese intervention that sent 300,000 enemy soldiers smashing into UN lines, through the longest retreat in American military history, to the desperate hill-by-hill fightback that began on the frozen slopes above Chipyong-ni.

From the corporal and two soldiers who stood up and charged fortified Chinese bunkers on the summit of Hill 614, to the stretcher bearers who carried their wounded mates down snow-covered mountains with no helicopter evacuation and no mechanical assistance, from Private Snow Dicker burying himself in rice straw to survive minus twenty-five degree nights to the sniper who called a Chinese bunker "Flinders Street Station," these are stories of endurance, mateship and raw courage in conditions that would break most people.

How did a battalion that had retreated 320 kilometres in nine days rebuild itself into one of the finest fighting units in Korea? What did the battles at Hill 614, Hill 587 and Maehwa-san teach the men who would hold the line at Kapyong — the action that saved Seoul and earned 3RAR a United States Presidential Unit Citation? Mat traces the chain of battles that transformed a demoralised, frozen, under-strength battalion into a force the Chinese couldn't break.

A powerful tribute to the Australians who fought in the Forgotten War — and a reminder that the men who held Kapyong in April first proved themselves on the frozen ridgelines of February and March, one hill at a time. Day after day. Without relief.

"Their courage, determination and loyalty were inspirations to me. I was never to meet their equal for the rest of my life." — Lieutenant Maurie Pears, 3RAR

Episode Length: 27 minutes

Features: First-person accounts from 3RAR veterans including Lieutenant Maurie Pears, Major Ben O'Dowd, Private Ian Robertson, and Captain Don Beard; the story of General Ridgway's transformation of the Eighth Army; and the chain of battles from Hill 614 to Kapyong that Australia has largely forgotten.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join Mat and his team on an exclusive series of river cruises to the battlefields of Waterloo, WWI, WW2 and Vietnam: https://battlefields.com.au/history-cruises-2027/

Find out everything Mat is doing with books, tours and media at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@MatMcLachlanHistory

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Ep262: The Invasion of Singapore, 1942

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 00:47:20 GMT

In February 1942, when the Japanese Imperial Army launched its assault on Singapore, 880 Australians would die in just four days—not in the surrender that followed, but in the desperate battle to defend the island.

In this episode, Mat McLachlan reveals the forgotten story of the invasion of Singapore—four days in February 1942 that have been overshadowed by the surrender and the horrors of captivity that followed. Through authentic accounts and personal testimonies, we follow the opening days of the Japanese assault: the night of February 8th when 88,000 shells rained down on Australian positions; the 2/20th Battalion losing 548 men in twenty-four hours; and the burning oil at Kranji that sent the Imperial Guards through flames.

From Lieutenant-General Percival's catastrophic refusal to build defenses because they were "bad for morale" to General Yamashita's stunning post-war admission that his entire attack was "a bluff—a bluff that worked," from Private Ray Colenso writing poetry about duty before dying on a northwestern beach to thirteen-year-old Soh Guan Bee surviving on sardines in a trauma that lasts eighty years, these soldiers and civilians faced an impossible situation with courage that has been largely forgotten.

Why did Australian casualties make up seventy-three percent of battle deaths while forming only thirteen percent of the forces? How did the 2/20th Battalion hold a coastline they couldn't possibly defend? What happened when two million gallons of burning petrol sluiced into the Johore Strait? Mat explores these questions through the actual words of those who were there.

A sobering testament to the Australians and civilians who fought during Singapore's opening days—and a reminder that before there were prisoners, there was a battle. Before there was defeat, there was courage.

"My attack on Singapore was a bluff—a bluff that worked. I had 30,000 men and was outnumbered more than three to one. I knew that if I had to fight for long for Singapore, I would be beaten." - General Tomoyuki Yamashita

Episode Length: 35 minutes

Features: Accounts from the 2/18th, 2/19th, and 2/20th Battalions' war diaries, civilian testimonies from Singapore National Archives, General Yamashita's post-war admissions, and insights into the battle that history has quietly set aside.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Ready to walk in the footsteps of those who fought at Singapore? Join Mat McLachlan on an exclusive tour to Singapore and the battlefields of Southeast Asia: https://battlefields.com.au/

Find out everything Mat is doing with books, tours and media at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@MatMcLachlanHistory

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Ep261: Somme Winter, 1916-17

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 18:00:00 GMT

In November 1916, when the great Somme offensive ground to its bloody halt, over 20,000 Australians would become casualties not from enemy fire, but from the winter itself.

In this powerful episode, Mat McLachlan reveals the forgotten story of the Somme winter of 1916-17—an ordeal that historian Bill Gammage called "the worst experience the AIF ever endured." Through authentic accounts and personal testimonies, we follow Charles Bean through the devastated moonscape near Gueudecourt on Christmas Day, where the mud was so terrible he couldn't bring himself to wish the men a Merry Christmas; Private Albert Edwards enduring his first 56 hours in two feet of water on an empty stomach; and Private Herbert Harris, recording that most of his mates hadn't had dry feet for a month and some didn't even have socks.

From the trench foot epidemic that claimed ninety percent of the 27th Battalion to the frozen nights when tea froze solid before reaching the front lines, from Captain Harry Murray's Victoria Cross action at Stormy Trench to the German retreat to the Hindenburg Line, these men faced the most severe winter in northern France in thirty-six years.

Why did more men become casualties from frostbite than from some battles? How did soldiers survive weeks in waterlogged trenches that sprouted grass from their sandbag walls? What kept them going through months of suffering designed to break them? Mat explores these questions through the actual words of the men who were there.

A sobering testament to the Australians who held the line through the Somme's frozen hell—and a reminder that some victories come not from charging, but from simply refusing to break.

"We live in a world of Somme mud. We sleep in it, work in it, fight in it, wade in it and many of us die in it. We see it, feel it, eat it and curse it, but we can't escape it, not even by dying." - Private Ted Lynch, 45th Battalion

Episode Length: 28 minutes

Features: Excerpts from Charles Bean's war diaries, Herbert Harris's diary entries, Albert Edwards's personal accounts, and on-location insights from the Somme battlefields

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Ready to walk in the footsteps of those who endured the Somme? Join Mat McLachlan on an exclusive river cruise that visits the battlefields of Waterloo, WWI and WW2 in 2027: https://battlefields.com.au/history-cruises/

Find out everything Mat is doing with books, tours and media at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@MatMcLachlanHistory

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Ep260: The Road to Passchendaele - The Final Reckoning (Part 5)

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 02:34:21 GMT

On October 12th, 1917, Captain Clarence Jeffries led one hundred Australian troops toward a German machine gun position on the Passchendaele road. He'd already captured one pillbox that morning—exactly the kind of action that had worked brilliantly in September. But the ground had turned to liquid mud. The barrage was invisible. Everything was different. Jeffries was killed instantly, posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross for capturing ground that would be abandoned the next day.

The Battle of Passchendaele represents the tragic final chapter of Third Ypres. In this episode, Mat McLachlan examines how an offensive that had proven the Western Front stalemate could be broken descended into one of history's ultimate symbols of futility.

From the 66th Division's twelve-hour march through mud to reach their start line, to the 3rd Australian Division's 400-yard advance at the cost of 3,199 casualties, to General Currie's precise prediction of 16,000 Canadian losses—we witness the attacks that should never have happened. But we also confront the uncomfortable question: if September's battles taught the lessons that helped win the war in 1918, what does that mean for October's dead?

Why did Field Marshal Haig continue attacking when every commander knew the ground was impossible? How did the same tactics that succeeded at Broodseinde fail so catastrophically at Passchendaele? What makes this battle both a vindication of tactical innovation and a monument to strategic delusion?

"I thought the principle was to be 'hit, hit, hit, whenever the weather is suitable.' If so, that principle is thrown away at the first temptation." - General Hubert Gough, October 8th, 1917

Episode Length: 43 minutes

Features: Captain Jeffries' Victoria Cross action, the sunk cost fallacy at GHQ, why Currie's prediction was exactly right, and the bitter irony of September's success drowning in October's mud.

Series Conclusion: The final reckoning of Third Ypres—triumph and tragedy, lessons learned and lives lost.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Ready to walk the battlefields? Join Mat's exclusive European tours: https://battlefields.com.au/

Find everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

For more history: https://www.LivingHistoryTV.com

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Ep259: The Road to Passchendaele - Broodseinde Ridge (Part 4)

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 04:25:30 GMT

On October 4th, 1917 a thousand British guns opened fire on German positions along Broodseinde Ridge. What followed was described by Crown Prince Rupprecht as "the black day of the war." For the first time, German high command began to consider the unthinkable: that they might actually lose.

The Battle of Broodseinde was the third and final success in General Plumer's carefully planned offensive. In this episode, Mat McLachlan reveals how a perfect convergence of tactics, timing and weather created what Charles Bean called "the most complete success so far won by the British Army in France."

From the 3rd Australian Division's capture of the Tyne Cot blockhouse to the stunning double-blow of simultaneous attacks, we follow the forces that shattered German morale and captured the ridge that dominated the Ypres Salient. But we also witness what came after: the rains that turned the battlefield to porridge, and the attacks at Poelcappelle and Passchendaele that descended into nightmare.

Why did German commanders panic after Broodseinde? How did tactics that worked perfectly on October 4th fail catastrophically days later? What makes the captured pillbox at Tyne Cot Cemetery the most significant monument on the Western Front?

"We no longer know what to do." - Crown Prince Rupprecht's diary, October 4th, 1917

Episode Length: 42 minutes

Features: The capture of the Tyne Cot blockhouse, Crown Prince Rupprecht's crisis of confidence, the weather that changed everything and why this single day's success could not be repeated.

Next Episode: Passchendaele - the final, bloodiest phase of Third Ypres.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Ready to walk the battlefields? Join Mat's exclusive European tours: https://battlefields.com.au/

Find everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

For more history: https://www.LivingHistoryTV.com

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Ep258: The Road to Passchendaele - Polygon Wood (Part 3)

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 02:36:36 GMT

On September 26th, 1917, at Polygon Wood, three cousins from the same Australian pioneering family waited in the pre-dawn darkness. Raymond Single would soon be shot by a sniper who saw his luminous watch glow. Within hours, Hubert Thompson and Wilfred Single would also be dead.

At 5:50 AM, a thousand guns opened simultaneously in what Frank Hurley called "a blinding sheet of flame." The Battle of Polygon Wood had begun.

Six days after the success at Menin Road, General Plumer launched his second "bite and hold" attack. In this episode, Mat McLachlan reveals how Polygon Wood became both a perfect victory and a terrible revelation: the British Empire had finally learned how to win battles, but winning provided no relief from the slaughter.

From Pompey Elliott holding the line while his brother died, to Patrick Bugden's five rescue missions into no-man's land, we follow the 4th and 5th Australian Divisions through what Charles Bean called possibly Elliott's greatest achievement—and one of the bloodiest days in Australian military history.

Why did German commanders admit they had "no idea what to do"? How did 21,000 men become casualties in a victorious battle? What made the 5th Division choose this costly triumph for their memorial?

"We are living through truly abominable days." - Colonel von Thaer, German High Command

Episode Length: 45 minutes

Features: The Single family tragedy, German crisis conference at Roulers, Company Sergeant Major Dewey's eyewitness account, and the moment when even perfect tactics couldn't change the arithmetic of death.

Next Episode: Broodseinde—the black day that ended in rain.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Ready to walk the battlefields? Join Mat's exclusive European tours: https://battlefields.com.au/

Find everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan For more history: https://www.LivingHistoryTV.com

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Ep257: The Road to Passchendaele - Menin Road (Part 2)

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 07:08:33 GMT

On September 20th, 1917, at the Battle of Menin Road, Private Roy Inwood lay in the mud east of Ypres. His brother had died at Pozières the year before. In three hours, Roy would earn the Victoria Cross. The day after, he'd be dead.

Nearby, three brothers from Petersham waited with their unit. By nightfall, their mother would have lost all three sons.

After weeks of catastrophic failures under General Gough, Field Marshal Haig transferred command to General Herbert Plumer. In this episode, Mat McLachlan reveals how Plumer's methodical genius transformed the offensive: three weeks of preparation, limited objectives, overwhelming firepower—one gun for every five yards of front—and revolutionary tactics that reversed traditional doctrine.

From predawn assembly through torrential mist to the devastating creeping barrage, we follow the 1st and 2nd Australian Divisions executing what Charles Bean called "probably their zenith"—the most perfectly coordinated attack of the war.

Why did German counter-attacks fail so catastrophically? How did Plumer's "bite and hold" change tactical doctrine? What drove Roy Inwood to advance alone through his own barrage—twice?

"Nothing I have heard in this world or can in the next could possibly approach its equal." - Australian soldier describing the barrage

Episode Length: 42 minutes

Features: Frank Hurley's battlefield diary, German assessments of defensive collapse, and the Seabrook brothers' final day.

Next Episode: Polygon Wood—the high point of the offensive.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Ready to walk the battlefields? Join Mat's exclusive European tours: https://battlefields.com.au/

Find everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

For more history: https://www.LivingHistoryTV.com

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Ep256: The Road to Passchendaele - The Gathering Storm (Part 1)

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 06:06:42 GMT

When Field Marshal Douglas Haig launched his great Flanders offensive in July 1917, he believed he was unleashing the battle that would end the war. Instead, he condemned three-quarters of a million men to fight and die in what would become synonymous with the horror of the Western Front.

In this opening episode, Mat McLachlan reveals how the stage was set for Third Ypres through a deadly convergence of strategic necessity and catastrophic weather. Through authentic accounts, we explore the crisis that made the battle inevitable: the French Army's collapse into mutiny after the disastrous Nivelle Offensive; the devastating U-boat campaign threatening to starve Britain into submission; and Haig's fateful decision to entrust his decisive battle to the aggressive General Hubert Gough rather than the methodical Herbert Plumer.

From the spectacular success of Messines Ridge - where 19 massive mines vaporized 10,000 German soldiers in 19 seconds - to the opening disaster of July 31st when torrential rain transformed the battlefield, Mat captures the human drama and strategic miscalculations that defined the campaign's tragic opening.

Why did Haig reject Plumer's plea to continue after Messines? How did catastrophically wrong weather predictions shape the battle? What drove Irish divisions from both sides of the religious divide to advance together into the slaughter at Langemarck?

"In my opinion the war can only be won here in Flanders." - Field Marshal Douglas Haig, August 13, 1917

Episode Length: 43 minutes

Features: Authentic diary entries, Crown Prince Rupprecht's battlefield assessments and firsthand accounts from German blockhouses to Irish trenches.

Next Episode: The Australians enter the battle at Menin Road, testing new tactics against German steel and concrete.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Ready to walk the battlefields? Join Mat McLachlan's exclusive European battlefield tours: https://battlefields.com.au/

Find everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

For more history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com

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Ep255: Australians at Arnhem, 1944

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 07:55:11 GMT

When 35,000 Allied paratroopers dropped into Holland in September 1944, four Australians from opposite corners of the continent found themselves at the heart of one of World War Two's most catastrophic operations.

In this remarkable episode, Mat McLachlan reveals the forgotten Australian stories of Operation Market Garden. Through authentic accounts and personal testimonies, we follow Keith Prowd from Gympie as his burning bomber falls from the sky at 550 feet; Alan Wood from Sydney, typing dispatches while German mortars explode around him; John Hackett from Perth, leading bayonet charges before being hidden by three Dutch sisters who risk everything to save him; and Tom Hall from Melbourne, whose Typhoon rockets try desperately to keep Hell's Highway open.

From Prowd's Death March through frozen Poland to Hackett's months in hiding during the Hunger Winter, these four men experienced Market Garden from every angle - in the air, on the ground, and through the typewriter keys that would preserve its history. Their stories capture not just the military disaster, but the extraordinary humanity that emerged from catastrophe.

Why did the de Nooij sisters risk execution to hide a stranger? How did Alan Wood keep typing as the battle raged? What drove Keith Prowd's mates to carry him through freezing temperatures when dropping him would save their own lives? Mat explores these questions through the actual words of the men who were there.

A powerful testament to the Australians who fought at Arnhem - and the Dutch civilians who saved them.

"If in years to come any man says to you, 'I fought with the Arnhem airborne force,' take your hat off to him and buy him a drink." - Alan Wood, September 1944

Episode Length: 24 minutes

Features: First-hand accounts from Keith Prowd's 2003 interview, excerpts from personal memoirs and on-location insights from Arnhem and Oosterbeek

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Ready to walk in the footsteps of heroes? Join Mat McLachlan on an exclusive river cruise that visits the battlefields of Waterloo, WWI and WW2 in 2027: https://battlefields.com.au/history-cruises/

Find out everything Mat is doing with books, tours and media at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

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Ep254: Australia's Last Battles of WW2

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 07:37:03 GMT

While the world watched Iwo Jima and Okinawa, over 70,000 Australian soldiers were fighting and dying in what many would later call the 'unnecessary wars' - the final campaigns in Bougainville, New Guinea and Borneo.

In this powerful episode, Mat McLachlan tells the forgotten story of Australia's last battles of World War Two. From November 1944 to August 1945, Australian forces fought through some of the war's most grueling conditions, losing over 2000 men in campaigns that history has largely overlooked.

Through authentic accounts from the soldiers who were there - including seven Victoria Cross recipients - we experience the mud, monsoons and malaria of jungle warfare. We meet young men like 20-year-old Frank Partridge, who became the war's youngest Australian VC recipient, and veterans like George Palmer, who carried the memory of a Japanese soldier he killed for the rest of his life.

Were these campaigns strategically necessary, or were they, as critics claimed, a waste of Australian lives for political purposes? Mat explores the controversy while never losing sight of the human story - of ordinary Australians who did extraordinary things when their mates needed them most.

A moving tribute to the men who fought on after the world had stopped watching.

"We weren't soldiers, we were heavily-armed civilians... for the most part, we were just ordinary people." - Les Cook, veteran

Episode Length: 21 minutes

Features: Original veteran testimonies, detailed battle accounts and expert historical analysis

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Find out everything Mat is doing with books, tours and media at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

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Ep253: Hiroshima 1945 - Was the Atomic Bombing Justified?

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 04:11:04 GMT

Was dropping the atomic bomb necessary? For nearly 80 years, historians have debated President Truman's decision to use nuclear weapons against Japan. But secret intelligence intercepts - classified for decades after the war - reveal what Japanese leaders were actually planning in the summer of 1945.

Using newly available evidence from the "Magic" intercepts, Mat McLachlan examines the brutal alternatives Truman faced: invasion projections of over a million American casualties, Japanese preparations to turn their entire population into combatants, and intelligence proving Japan's refusal to surrender.

Through the stories of Colonel Paul Tibbets, who piloted the Enola Gay, and Reverend Kiyoshi Tanimoto, who survived Hiroshima, this episode explores one of history's most controversial decisions - and why the evidence suggests it was the only choice that could end the war and save lives.

The atomic bombs killed 200,000 people. But would the alternatives have killed millions more?

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Find out everything Mat is doing with books, tours and media at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep252: Waterloo Relics at the Guards Museum

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 19:00:00 GMT

Step into the hallowed halls of London's Guards Museum with Mat McLachlan as he uncovers extraordinary artifacts from one of history's most pivotal battles. In this captivating episode, Mat takes you behind the scenes to examine authentic Waterloo relics that have survived over two centuries - from battle-worn uniforms and weapons to personal effects that once belonged to the soldiers who fought on that fateful day in 1815. You'll discover how these precious artifacts made their way from the Belgian battlefield to their current home in London, and what they tell us about courage, sacrifice, and the brutal reality of Napoleonic warfare.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Lee Murrell

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Watch the full video version of this episode at: https://youtu.be/aWVEQ9_r7Hs?si=Zy_NqutT4gFgxX6k

Ready to walk in Wellington's footsteps? Join Mat McLachlan on an exclusive private tour of the Waterloo battlefield, where you'll explore the very ground where history was made. Discover the stories behind the strategy, visit key locations, and gain insights that only come from experiencing this legendary battlefield firsthand. Book your unforgettable Waterloo adventure at: https://battlefields.com.au/waterloo-private-tour/

Find out everything Mat is doing with books, tours and media at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep251: El Alamein, 1942

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 04:32:25 GMT

In October 1942, as Field Marshal Rommel's Afrika Korps prepared for one final push towards Cairo, Australia's 9th Division and New Zealand's 2nd Division stood ready at El Alamein for what would become the decisive battle of the North African campaign. Author Tom Gilling joins Mat McLachlan to explore how Montgomery's meticulously planned offensive depended on the tenacity of these Anzac forces to break through Rommel's formidable defences. From the initial barrage that lit up the desert night to the grinding attritional warfare that followed, this is the story of how Australian and New Zealand forces helped deliver the victory that Churchill called "the end of the beginning" - a triumph that saved the Middle East and marked the true turning point of the Second World War.

Tom Gilling's new book on the Battle of El Alamein, Start Digging You Bastards!, is available now.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Tom Gilling

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Find out everything Mat is doing with books, tours and media at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep250: Somme 1916 - The Death of the Newfoundland Regiment

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 23:35:11 GMT

On July 1st, 1916, 800 young Newfoundlanders climbed out of a trench and walked into history at Beaumont-Hamel. In twenty minutes, an entire generation was lost. This is their story - from fishermen's sons volunteering in St. John's to seasoned soldiers facing the German lines on the Somme. Through the actual words of Lieutenant Owen Steele, Private Frank Lind, and others who were there, Mat McLachlan tells how a small island's fierce loyalty to the Empire led to unimaginable sacrifice. A tragedy that shaped Newfoundland's identity forever, commemorated by a bronze caribou that still stands guard over the fields where so many gave everything.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Find out everything Mat is doing with books, tours and media at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep249: Billy Sing - The Gallipoli Sniper

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 06:27:22 GMT

Billy Sing was a living contradiction - an Australian of Chinese and English descent, who went on to become Australia's deadliest sniper of all time. In this episode Mat explores Billy's life, his deadly work at Gallipoli and his sad decline once the war was over.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Find out everything Mat is doing with books, tours and media at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep248: Australia's Waterloo Veteran

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 06:54:23 GMT

This week marks the 210th anniversary of the Battle of Waterloo, the epic battle that resulted in the defeat of Napoleon and the rewriting of European history. But recent research has revealed that one man who fought at the battle had a fascinating connection with Australia. Lieutenant Andrew White of the Royal Engineers had been born in the fledgling colony of NSW, the son of a convict. His journey from colonial child to gentleman officer serving on the staff of the Duke of Wellington is one of the most remarkable tales of early Australia. Join Mat as he tells the story of Andrew White, Australia's first returned serviceman and only Waterloo veteran.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Find out everything Mat is doing with books, tours and media at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep247: First to Fight - 1RAR in Vietnam, 1965

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 07:23:30 GMT

It's been 60 years since the first Australian combat troops were deployed to Vietnam. In this episode Mat discusses the political situation that led to their deployment, their early actions and the lessons learned that helped shape our commitment to the war.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Find out everything Mat is doing with books, tours and media at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep246: The Anzacs at Messines, 1917

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 02:44:52 GMT

This week marks the anniversary of the Battle of Messines, in June 1917. At the time, it was considered the greatest Allied victory of the war, and Australian and New Zealand troops played a vital role. In this episode Mat breaks down the battle, what innovative tactics helped to win it, and the huge Anzac sacrifice required to bring victory.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Find out everything Mat is doing with books, tours and media at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep245: V-E Day 80th Anniversary

Thu, 08 May 2025 07:25:17 GMT

May 8 marks the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, the day the Germans surrendered in the Second World War. Mat is joined by historian Lachlan Grant from the Australian War Memorial to discuss what this important day meant for Australians, both at home and overseas.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Lachlan Grant

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Find out everything Mat is doing with books, tours and media at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep244: London's Secret War History

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 04:45:35 GMT

Mat is joined again by legendary London battle guide, Steve Hunnisett, to explore more sites that tell the story of London's wartime past.

Sites visited:

- Salvation Army HQ, where an amateur photographer captured iconic images of London in flames during the Blitz

- The Royal Exchange, where a direct bomb hit created 'the largest crater in England'

- Two extraordinary war memorials - one from the Napoleonic Wars and one from the First World War - that tell the stories of Londoners who volunteered to fight

- An unassuming jewellery shop, where a hero lost his life trying to foil a robbery in the dark days of WW2

- The Merchant Navy Memorial, that remembers more than 35,000 sailors lost during both world wars, and tells the story of some of the most remarkable ships to ever take to sea.

Watch the video version here: https://youtu.be/ZmtMluJtB74?si=3tH0bepMXPvGwSO1

To book a tour of London's wartime sites with Steve, visit https://www.blitzwalkers.co.uk/

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Steve Hunnisett

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Find out everything Mat is doing with books, tours and media at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep243: Australians in Burma, 1942-45

Sat, 15 Mar 2025 00:14:29 GMT

Although Australians were actively involved in the Burma campaign throughout the Second World War, this vitally important theatre of the Asia-Pacific War has fallen through the cracks of history. Mat speaks with historian Daryl Moran to reveal the service and sacrifice of Australians in this forgotten campaign.

In the Fight: Australians and the War in Burma, 1942-1945, edited by Andrew Kilsby and Daryl Moran, is available now.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Daryl Moran

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Find out everything Mat is doing with books, tours and media at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep242: Walking Fromelles with Lambis Englezos

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 04:19:08 GMT

Lambis Englezos is well-known as the man who discovered a mass grave containing 250 Australian soldiers on the 1916 battlefield of Fromelles. This battle had been an unmitigated disaster, with more than 5500 Australians killed, wound or captured in only 20 hours of fighting. It is still remembered as the greatest military disaster in Australian history.

In July 2025 Lambis will return to the Western Front to lead a special group tour, which will commemorate the anniversary of Fromelles and Pozieres, and also visit all the key Australian battlefields. In this episode he joins Mat to talk about the experience of walking the ground where the Anzacs fought, and why the French and Belgian battlefields continue to hold a special place in his heart.

Join Lambis on this exclusive tour! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/fromelles-pozieres-anniversary-tour-2025/ for details.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Lambis Englezos

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Find out everything Mat is doing with books, tours and media at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep241: Q&A5 - Your Questions Answered!

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 01:13:17 GMT

It's the latest episode in our Q&A series. This week's questions include: Was it a war crime to drop the atomic bombs?; How can I visit Tyne Cot Cemetery in Belgium?; and is it possible to speak with Vietnam veterans?

Send your questions to Mat on X (https://x.com/MatMcLachlan), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/BattlefieldTours) or Insta (https://www.instagram.com/mat_mclachlan/)

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Find out everything Mat is doing with books, tours and media at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep240: Iwo Jima with John McManus

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 05:59:32 GMT

February marks the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima, one of the most iconic battles of the Pacific War. But why is the battle so iconic, when so many other Pacific actions have fallen through the cracks of history. Mat is joined by US historian John McManus to find out!

Topics include the pivotal role of the USA in WW2; the strategic importance of Iwo Jima as part of the bombing campaign against Japan; the plans to capture the island; the bloody fighting on the landing beaches, the airfields and Mount Suribachi; the outcomes of the battle and the assessment of whether it was all worth it; and the enduring cultural significance of Iwo Jima.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: John McManus

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Find out everything Mat is doing with books, tours and media at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep239: Somme Winter, 1916/17

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 18:00:00 GMT

Welcome to our new season! In this first episode Mat tells the story of the winter of 1916/17, one of the harshest ordeals faced by Australian soldiers in the First World War.

Topics include the end of the Battle of the Somme; the attacks at Flers in November 1916; the devastating effect on morale of living in the frigid conditions; the remarkable story of Harry Murray, our most decorated soldier of the war; and a mispositioned memorial that reveals a rare piece of Australian history.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Find out everything Mat is doing with books, tours and media at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep238: Ypres Salient - Talbot House

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 01:53:52 GMT

Talbot House was an 'everyman's club' in the Ypres sector in Belgium during the First World War. Established behind the lines in the town of Poperinghe, Talbot House was a place soldiers could come to for some respite from the horrors of the battlefield. Today it has been preserved as a museum, dedicated to telling the story of the house and its foundation by Australian chaplain Tubby Clayton. Mat visits the house, escorted by its director, Simon Louagie, to explore the stories of the lives and deaths of its many visitors.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Simon Louagie

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Find out everything Mat is doing with books, tours and media at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep237: HMAS Sydney, Victory at Kokoda and the Australians at Bougainville

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 03:54:47 GMT

Mat is joined by regular co-host Karl James to discuss some important Second World War anniversaries.

Topics include the sinking of HMAS Sydney and the opening of the Australian War Memorial in 1941, the end of the Kokoda campaign in 1942 and the Australians taking over from the Americans on Bougainville in 1944.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Karl James

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Find out everything Mat is doing with books, tours and media at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep236: Q&A4 - Your Questions Answered!

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 06:45:48 GMT

It's the latest episode in our Q&A series. This week's questions include: Was General Monash the greatest general of the First World War?; Where can I lay a wreath on the Western Front battlefields?; and What evidence of Hitler's V-Weapons campaign can you find today?

Send your questions to Mat on X (https://x.com/MatMcLachlan), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/BattlefieldTours) or Insta (https://www.instagram.com/mat_mclachlan/)

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Find out everything Mat is doing with books, tours and media at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep235: The History of Australian Military History

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 00:01:56 GMT

Our guest this week is noted Australian historian Peter Stanley, formerly with the Australian War Memorial, the National Museum and the University of NSW. Peter's new book, Beyond the Broken Years, explores more than a century of military history publishing, via a thousand books.

Topics discussed include the history of military history writing, the role of military history in telling the broader story of Australian history, the significance of 'storians' vs historians and the future of military history study. Peter also offers his shortlist of the best military history books to read.

Beyond the Broken Years is available in bookshops now.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Peter Stanley

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Find out everything Mat is doing with books, tours and media at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep234: Your Questions Answered! Q&A with Mat 3

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 04:29:55 GMT

It's the latest episode in our Q&A series. This week's questions include: Was the Brisbane Line in WW2 real?; Is Anzac Day the best time to visit Gallipoli?; and Did Australian troops only fight under the Red Ensign flag in WW1?

Send your questions to Mat on X (https://x.com/MatMcLachlan), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/BattlefieldTours) or Insta (https://www.instagram.com/mat_mclachlan/)

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Find out everything Mat is doing with books, tours and media at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep233: What Does Remembrance Day Mean in 2024?

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 03:35:56 GMT

Mat is joined by special co-host Karl James to discuss the significance of Remembrance Day. How did it start, what does it mean to veterans and the general public, and will it continue to be important in the future?

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Karl James

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Find out everything Mat is doing with books, tours and media at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep232: Your Questions Answered! Q&A with Mat 2

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 03:57:57 GMT

It's the second episode in our new Q&A series. Today's topics include WW2 sites in Singapore; visiting the medieval battlefields of Crecy and Agincourt; the role of snipers in the First World War; and the attitude of Vietnamese people to Australian Vietnam veterans.

Send your questions to Mat on X (https://x.com/MatMcLachlan), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/BattlefieldTours) or Insta (https://www.instagram.com/mat_mclachlan/)

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Find out everything Mat is doing with books, tours and media at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep231: Your Questions Answered! Q&A with Mat 1

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 02:58:19 GMT

Mat sits down with producer Jess Stebnicki to answer your questions, including: Are there ghosts on the battlefields? How much time do I need to spend on the Australian battlefields? What happened to Australians captured at Gallipoli?, and how much unexploded ammunition is still on the battlefields?

Send your questions to Mat on X (https://x.com/MatMcLachlan), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/BattlefieldTours) or Insta (https://www.instagram.com/mat_mclachlan/)

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Find out everything Mat is doing with books, tours and media at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep230: Western Front Revisited

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 18:00:58 GMT

Mat is in Paris, sharing his memories of a very special visit to the Western Front. Topics discussed include how young people engage with the Anzac legend; a German WW2 cemetery that provokes mixed emotions; the Last Post service at the newly-renovated Menin Gate; the Sunken Lane on the Somme battlefield; and a remarkable coincidence involving two Australians killed in 1918.

Join Mat on his Signature Tour to the Western Front in 2025: https://battlefields.com.au/western-front-signature-tour-with-mat-mclachlan-2025/

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep229: War Photographer Damien Parer

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 19:00:43 GMT

Damien Parer was one of Australia's greatest war photographers and cinematographers. His images and footage of Australians in the Second World War helped define the conflict, both for the people who were in it and for generations to come. His camera work on 'Kokoda Frontline' helped earn Australia its first Academy Award, and his work with American forces in the Pacific set new standards for combat photography. In this episode Mat is joined by Karl James from the Australian War Memorial to tell the story of the life and death of Damien Parer.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guests: Karl James

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Subscribe via Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes, early access to all episodes, ad-free listening and special online events with Mat McLachlan! https://www.patreon.com/MMHistory

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep228: Australian War Memorial - Behind the Scenes

Fri, 13 Sep 2024 04:21:28 GMT

Mat visits the Australian War Memorial in Canberra for a special behind-the-scenes tour of the artefacts and large items that are rarely on public display. During this special visit he is guided by Head of Military History Dr Karl James, and speaks to historian Dr Lachlan Grant about the new Australians in Bomber Command exhibition.

Topics discussed: 'G for George', the AWM's famous Lancaster bomber; the German ME262 German aircraft; a Chinook helicopter that carried Australian troops into combat in Afghanistan; a smashed engine from a Hawker Hurricane that tells the story of an Australian airman who died over Europe; a caravan that was home to a famous WW2 general; a Japanese midget submarine that raided Sydney Harbour; a German V2 rocket on its original carrier; and a special preview of the future Australians in Bomber Command exhibition, which utilises aircraft, objects and technology to tell the story of the air war in WW2.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guests: Karl James and Lachlan Grant

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Subscribe via Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes, early access to all episodes, ad-free listening and special online events with Mat McLachlan! https://www.patreon.com/MMHistory

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Walking Ypres with guidl

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 06:46:42 GMT

Join Mat to hear all about guidl, a new audio tour app that he is contributing to. guidl takes you on walking tours to the world's most historic sites, narrated by leading historians. Mat's first guidl tour is of wartime Ypres and, in this special episode, Mat shares the first chapter of his Ypres walking tour.

Download the app and find out more about guidl: https://www.guidl.tours/

Join Mat on a battlefield tour: https://battlefields.com.au/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep227: How to Visit the Somme

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 22:02:13 GMT

The Somme region in northern France was the scene of some of the bloodiest fighting of the First World War. Today, it is one of the most important and evocative battlefields for Australian visitors. In this special episode, Mat explores the Somme region and tells you where to go, where to stay and what you will see when you are there.

Watch the video version of this podcast! https://youtu.be/vo1LDZI5UZg?si=ru4wT_lpT1JJkkOk

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Subscribe via Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes, early access to all episodes, ad-free listening and special online events with Mat McLachlan! https://www.patreon.com/MMHistory

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep226: Walking Long Tan with Dave Sabben

Fri, 23 Aug 2024 05:23:41 GMT

Live from Vietnam! In this very special episode of the podcast, Mat is joined by veteran of the Battle of Long Tan, Dave Sabben, MG. Mat and Dave have just walked the entire Long Tan battlefield on the 58th anniversary of the battle, and share their thoughts about this very special experience.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Dave Sabben, MG

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Subscribe via Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes, early access to all episodes, ad-free listening and special online events with Mat McLachlan! https://www.patreon.com/MMHistory

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep225: Sinking the Tirpitz

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 05:31:02 GMT

During the Second World War, the Allies were desperate to sink the two biggest battleships in the German fleet, Bismarck and her sister ship Tirpitz. Bismarck went to the bottom in 1941 but in 1944 Tirpitz was still threatening Allied shipping. In a series of daring raids over the icy waters of Norway, Royal Air Force bombers eventually sank the mighty warship. And Australian crews played there part. In his new book, Buckham's Bombers, Mark Baker tells the story of Australian captain Bruce Buckham and his fearless Lancaster crew, who not only participated in the mission that sank Tirpitz, but also in dozens of other daring raids across Europe.

Buckham's Bombers: The Australian Airmen who Hunted Hitler's Deadliest Battleship is available now in bookshops Australia-wide.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Mark Baker

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Subscribe via Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes, early access to all episodes, ad-free listening and special online events with Mat McLachlan! https://www.patreon.com/MMHistory

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

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Ep224: 1918 - On to Victory (Part 4)

Thu, 15 Aug 2024 01:31:20 GMT

The First World War is drawing to a close, as the unstoppable forces of France, Britain and America grind the German army into the ground. But some of the toughest fighting of the war is still to come before an Armistice is finally signed. How did the men keep going through this terrible ordeal, knowing that the war could end any day, and yet death still lurked on every corner of the battlefield?

In the fourth and final episode of our special series about the triumphant campaign that ended the First World War, Mat is joined by historian Peter Hart to tell the story of the final days that led to victory.

Hosts: Mat McLachlan and Peter Hart

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Subscribe via Patreon to receive exclusive bonus episodes, ad-free listening and special online events with Mat McLachlan! https://www.patreon.com/MMHistory

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Find out more about the podcast and everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Walking Gallipoli with Peter Hart

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 00:20:17 GMT

Mat McLachlan and Peter Hart are going to Gallipoli! In this special episode of the podcast, the two historians and chums discuss their upcoming tour in May 2025, which will discover the battlefields of Gallipoli by walking in the footsteps of the men who were there!

The 10-day tour begins in Istanbul on May 21, 2025, and we'd love you to join us! There are limited places still available! Click here for full details: https://battlefields.com.au/gallipoli-signature-tour-with-mat-mclachlan-2025/

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Ep223: Krithia - Gallipoli's Forgotten Anzac Battle

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 02:00:01 GMT

The Battle of Krithia was one of the bloodiest ordeals at Gallipoli, and cost the Australians and New Zealanders nearly 2500 casualties. But for some reason the battle has slipped through the cracks of history, and barely rates a mention in the Anzac story of Gallipoli. Mat McLachlan's new book, Krithia: The Forgotten Anzac Battle of Gallipoli, redresses that oversight, as he tells the story of the bravery and sacrifice of the Anzacs on the plains of Cape Helles in May 1915.

In this unusual episode of the podcast, Mat is the interviewee, with special guest host and veteran journalist Ray Martin asking the questions that reveal the true horror and bravery of the Battle of Krithia.

Krithia: The Forgotten Anzac Battle of Gallipoli is now available in bookshops throughout Australia and New Zealand. International listeners can order from online retailers or download the audio or e-book on Audible, Apple Books and Google Books. Australian listeners can order an autographed copy by clicking here: https://livinghistorytv.com/book/krithia-the-forgotten-anzac-battle-of-gallipoli/

Host: Ray Martin

Guest: Mat McLachlan

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Subscribe via Patreon to receive exclusive bonus episodes, ad-free listening and special online events with Mat McLachlan! https://www.patreon.com/MMHistory

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Find out more about the podcast and everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep222: 1918 - Monash and the Australians (Part 3)

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 19:00:03 GMT

In three years of combat the Australian Imperial Force evolved from a keen but inexperienced group of new recruits who landed at Gallipoli, to one of the elite assault forces on the Western Front. No discussion of the closing days of WWI would be complete without exploring the key role played by Australian troops, and their enigmatic leader, Lieutenant General Sir John Monash. Was Australian success the result of skill, luck, good management or a combination of all three?

In the thirs episode of our special series about the triumphant campaign that ended the First World War, Mat is joined by historian Peter Hart to tell the story of John Monash and his Australian Corps.

Hosts: Mat McLachlan and Peter Hart

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Subscribe via Patreon to receive exclusive bonus episodes, ad-free listening and special online events with Mat McLachlan! https://www.patreon.com/MMHistory

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Find out more about the podcast and everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

BONUS: Olympian and Soldier, Cecil Healy

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 19:00:41 GMT

In this bonus episode, which originally aired on our sister podcast, BattleWalks, Mat is joined by historian Pete Smith to tell the story of Australian Olympic gold medallist and WWI officer, Cecil Healy.

Hosts: Mat McLachlan and Pete Smith

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Subscribe via Patreon to receive exclusive bonus episodes, ad-free listening and special online events with Mat McLachlan! https://www.patreon.com/MMHistory

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Find out more about the podcast and everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep221: 1918 - Four Battles in Four Days (Part 2)

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 19:00:02 GMT

After the successes of August 1918, the Allies are smelling blood and, in one of the most overwhelming series of attacks launched during the entire First World War, they deal the Germans a savage blow. The French and British, supported by Canadians, Australians, New Zealanders and Americans, launch four huge attacks in four consecutive days in September, smashing the Germans in multiple parts of their line. Can the Germans withstand such pressure or is the writing on the wall?

In the second episode of our new special series about the triumphant campaign that ended the First World War, Mat is joined by historian Peter Hart to tell the story of four battles in four days.

Hosts: Mat McLachlan and Peter Hart

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Subscribe via Patreon to receive exclusive bonus episodes, ad-free listening and special online events with Mat McLachlan! https://www.patreon.com/MMHistory

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Find out more about the podcast and everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep220: 1918 - The Final Days of WWI (Part 1)

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 19:00:39 GMT

The Germans have battered themselves to the point of exhaustion in their Spring Offensives of March and April, 1918. Now it's time for the Allies to strike back! Beginning with French actions on the Marne, the great Allied offensive that would eventually lead to the total defeat of the German Army begins. And the attack is soon taken up by the British, Australians and Canadians, culminating in the unprecedented successes of August 8.

In the first episode of our new special series about the triumphant campaign that ended the First World War, Mat is joined by historian Peter Hart to tell the story of the Black Day of the German Army.

Hosts: Mat McLachlan and Peter Hart

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Subscribe via Patreon to receive exclusive bonus episodes, ad-free listening and special online events with Mat McLachlan! https://www.patreon.com/MMHistory

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Find out more about the podcast and everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep219: WW2 Secret Agents with Clare Mulley

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 19:00:31 GMT

The Special Operations Executive was a secretive British organisation that engaged in espionage and supported resistance movements in occupied Europe during the Second World War. In this episode Mat is joined by historian Clare Mulley to tell the story of several women who played vital roles in SOE operations - many of whom lost their lives in the effort.

Clare Mulley's latest book, Agent Zo: The Untold Story of Fearless WW2 Resistance Fighter Elzbieta Zawacka, is available now. Find out more about Clare at https://claremulley.com

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Clare Mulley

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Subscribe via Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes, early access to all episodes, ad-free listening and special online events with Mat McLachlan! https://www.patreon.com/MMHistory

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep218: D-Day 80th - Juno Beach (Part 5)

Wed, 03 Jul 2024 14:00:10 GMT

Juno Beach was sandwiched between Gold and Sword, and was the responsibility of Canadian forces to secure. But in scenes reminiscent of Omaha Beach to the west, the Canadians came ashore in the face of withering German fire and suffered heavy casualties. What made Juno Beach such a deadly place to land on D-Day?

In the final episode of our special series on the D-Day landings, Mat is joined by historian Mike Bechthold to tell the story of the landing at Juno Beach.

Hosts: Mat McLachlan and Mike Bechthold

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Subscribe to listen to EVERY EPISODE NOW in this special series! You'll also receive exclusive bonus episodes, early access to all episodes, ad-free listening and special online events with Mat McLachlan! Subscribe in the Apple Podcasts app or by visiting https://www.patreon.com/MMHistory

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Find out more about the podcast and everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

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Ep217: D-Day 80th - Sword Beach (Part 4)

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 14:00:59 GMT

Sword Beach was the most easterly of all the D-Day landing beaches, and the one most likely to face the wrath of German counter-attacks. As the British infantry landed their flank was supported by a daring airborne operation. Would the British get ashore before German reinforcements moved against them?

In the fourth of our special series on the D-Day landings, Mat is joined by historian Gary Sheffield to tell the story of the landing at Sword Beach.

Hosts: Mat McLachlan and Gary Sheffield

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Find out more about the podcast and everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep216: D-Day 80th - Gold Beach (Part 3)

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 14:00:25 GMT

Our focus now shifts to the British sector of D-Day, and the landing on Gold Beach. Would the Brits get ashore in the face of treacherous weather and fierce German resistance?

In the third of our special series on the D-Day landings, Mat is joined by historian Gary Sheffield to tell the story of the landing at Gold Beach.

Hosts: Mat McLachlan and Gary Sheffield

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Find out more about the podcast and everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep215: D-Day 80th - Utah Beach (Part 2)

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 14:00:07 GMT

While American troops were being cut down on Omaha Beach, their comrades to the west were coming ashore on the rolling dunes of Utah Beach. Why did this landing go so much more to plan?

In the second of our special series on the D-Day landings, Mat is joined by historian John McManus to tell the story of Utah Beach.

Hosts: Mat McLachlan and John McManus

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Find out more about the podcast and everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep214: D-Day 80th - Omaha Beach (Part 1)

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 14:00:41 GMT

It's the 80th anniversary of D-Day and Mat is breaking down the entire day by telling the story of each of the five beaches. It's a five-episode special series that will reveal the real story of the invasion of Normandy on June 6, 1944. Today the Americans are tasked with the toughest mission of D-Day: landing in front of the imposing cliffs and tough defences of Omaha Beach. Was 'Bloody Omaha' really as bloody as countless books and movies have told us?

In the first of our special series on the D-Day landings, Mat is joined by historian John McManus to tell the story of Omaha Beach.

Hosts: Mat McLachlan and John McManus

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Find out more about the podcast and everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

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Ep213: Gallipoli - All Hope Gone (Part 8)

Wed, 29 May 2024 19:00:14 GMT

The end is drawing near. After failure, disappointment and outright disaster, it's time for the Allies to evacuate Gallipoli. But this is no simple task - nearly 100,000 men need to be withdrawn from the peninsula under the noses of the Turks. Will the British and Anzacs be able to pull it off? How can they slink away without losing half their force?

In the eighth and final episode of our special series on the Gallipoli campaign, Mat is joined by historian Peter Hart to explore the evacuation of Gallipoli, perhaps the only genuine success in the entire campaign.

Hosts: Mat McLachlan and Peter Hart

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Subscribe via Patreon to listen to EVERY EPISODE NOW in this special series! You'll also receive exclusive bonus episodes, early access to all episodes, ad-free listening and special online events with Mat McLachlan! https://www.patreon.com/MMHistory

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Find out more about the podcast and everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep212: Gallipoli - The Suvla Landing (Part 7)

Wed, 22 May 2024 19:00:01 GMT

As part of their cunning plan to outflank the Turks and seize the high ground in the August Offensive, the Allies play their trump card. They stage a new landing at Suvla Bay and bring thousands of reinforcements ashore. But the terrain at Suvla is not as easy as it appears on a map, and the British are dogged by indecision and poor leadership. Will the men get ashore, and what new horrors will face them when they land?

In the seventh episode of our special series on the Gallipoli campaign, Mat is joined by historian Peter Hart to explore the landing at Suvla Bay.

Hosts: Mat McLachlan and Peter Hart

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Find out more about the podcast and everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep211: Gallipoli - The August Offensive (Part 6)

Wed, 15 May 2024 19:00:43 GMT

The Allies are getting desperate and as the heat of summer descends on the peninsula, they are determined to try a bold gamble to win the campaign once and for all. Turning their attention to the Anzac sector, they come up with an ambitious plan that involves breaking out to the north of Anzac and seizing the high ground. But the men are wracked by disease, the terrain they must cross is some of the toughest at Gallipoli, and the Turkish defenders are ready and waiting. Does the August Offensive have any chance of success?

In the sixth episode of our special series on the Gallipoli campaign, Mat is joined by historian Peter Hart to explore the August Offensive, and the accompanying attacks at Lone Pine, the Nek, Chunuk Bair and more.

Hosts: Mat McLachlan and Peter Hart

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Find out more about the podcast and everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep210: Gallipoli - Conditions in the Trenches (Part 5)

Wed, 08 May 2024 19:00:00 GMT

Stalemate has descended on Gallipoli and both sides now have to confront a new enemy - the appalling living conditions in the trenches. If the constant risk of death was not enough to do a man in, he also had to contend with heat, flies, corpses, disease and a nauseating diet. Could things get any worse?

In the fifth episode of our special series on the Gallipoli campaign, Mat is joined by historian Peter Hart to explore the horrendous conditions endured by the soldiers during the campaign.

Hosts: Mat McLachlan and Peter Hart

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Find out more about the podcast and everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep209: Gallipoli - Hell at Helles (Part 4)

Wed, 01 May 2024 19:00:15 GMT

The British and French have secured the barest of toeholds at Cape Helles, and the Anzacs are hanging on by their fingernails at Anzac Cove. Now their commanders must decide what to do next. Turning away from Anzac for the time being, they decide to throw their scarce resources into the main battlefield of Helles, and finally secure the objectives of Krithia village and Achi Baba hill. Can they succeed against a reinforced and confident Turkish garrison?

In the fourth episode of our special series on the Gallipoli campaign, Mat is joined by historian Peter Hart to tell the story of the hellish fighting at Helles between April and July 1915.

Hosts: Mat McLachlan and Peter Hart

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Find out more about the podcast and everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep208: Gallipoli - The Helles Landing (Part 3)

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 19:00:05 GMT

While the Australians and New Zealanders are struggling to come ashore at Anzac Cove, the British are landing at Cape Helles, on the southern toe of the Gallipoli peninsula. But once again, the Turkish defenders put up a stiff resistance that far exceeds their small numbers. Can the British get ashore in the face of this withering fire?

In the third episode of our special series on the Gallipoli campaign, Mat is joined by historian Peter Hart to tell the story of the landings at Cape Helles.

Hosts: Mat McLachlan and Peter Hart

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Find out more about the podcast and everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep207: Gallipoli - The Anzac Landing (Part 2)

Sun, 21 Apr 2024 19:00:26 GMT

The Allies are going ashore at Gallipoli! In the frosty dawn of April 25, 1915, 16,000 Australian and New Zealand troops prepare to land on a hostile shore. The Turks know a landing is coming, but will their defences be enough to drive the Anzacs into the sea?

In the second episode of our special series on the Gallipoli campaign, Mat is joined by historian Peter Hart to tell the story of the landings at Anzac Cove.

Hosts: Mat McLachlan and Peter Hart

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Find out more about the podcast and everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep206: Gallipoli - The Naval Battle (Part 1)

Thu, 18 Apr 2024 19:00:54 GMT

It's March, 1915. Turkey has entered the war on Germany's side and promptly closed the Dardanelles strait, closing off a vital sea route for our Russian allies. Britain and France decide to take decisive action - they will send a fleet to Gallipoli and storm the Dardanelles!

Armed with a half-baked plan, 16 obsolete warships and little idea of the formidable Turkish defences, the navy was determined to steam to Constantinople and victory. What could possibly go wrong?

In the first episode of our special series on the Gallipoli campaign, Mat is joined by historian Peter Hart to tell the story of the disastrous naval battle of March 18, 1915.

Hosts: Mat McLachlan and Peter Hart

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Find out more about the podcast and everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sandakan Death March with Lynette Silver

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 22:39:17 GMT

The Sandakan Death March was one of the darkest chapter of Australia's WW2 story. In this confronting episode, Mat is joined by historian Lynette Silver to tell the story of the forced march of Australian POWs by the Japanese in 1945.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Lynette Silver

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Subscribe via Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes, early access to all episodes, ad-free listening and special online events with Mat McLachlan! https://www.patreon.com/MMHistory

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep205: Battle of Trafalgar with Rob Blyth

Fri, 05 Apr 2024 23:12:16 GMT

Mat visits the National Maritime Museum in London to explore six fascinating relics from the Battle of Trafalgar. Guiding him around the collection is senior curator, Rob Blyth.

Topics discussed: A painting that shows Lord Nelson bleeding after his arm was amputated; a beautiful porcelain figurine that depicts 'Jack Tar', a typical sailor at the time of Trafalgar; a range of cannon projectiles that were used at the Battle of Trafalgar to smash enemy ships; the jacket that Lord Nelson was wearing when he was shot and killed at Trafalgar; mourning items associated with Britain's national grief when Nelson died; and Turner's famous painting depicting the battle.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Dr Robert Blyth

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Subscribe via Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes, early access to all episodes, ad-free listening and special online events with Mat McLachlan! https://www.patreon.com/MMHistory

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep204: Aerial Warfare, the Great Escape and a Mystery Propeller!

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 21:37:14 GMT

Mat is joined by historian Michael Molkentin to discuss all things WW1 and WW2!

Topics discussed: Final thoughts on the TV series Masters of the Air; the 80th anniversary of the Great Escape and the plight of POWs; the Naval Battle of Gallipoli; the German Spring Offensive of 1918; the mysterious discovery of a WW2 bomber propeller on an isolated Scottish island; and more!

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Michael Molkentin

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Subscribe via Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes, early access to all episodes, ad-free listening and special online events with Mat McLachlan! https://www.patreon.com/MMHistory

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Find out more about the podcast and everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

German Spring Offensive with Paul Reed

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 23:11:32 GMT

Mat speaks to historian Paul Reed about the German Spring Offensive, the huge series of attacks that fell on the Allies in March and April 1918.

Listen to Paul Reed's outstanding podcast, The Old Front Line: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1T7u7meUQVm1CTYqKX3EcD?si=ceFpx8stQw-yigWZQCz8qw

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Paul Reed

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Subscribe via Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes, early access to all episodes, ad-free listening and special online events with Mat McLachlan! https://www.patreon.com/MMHistory

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Find out more about the podcast and everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

BONUS DROP: Gallipoli, Ypres and Sydney!

Fri, 22 Mar 2024 07:04:16 GMT

Mat reveals exciting news in the world of battlefield history!

Topics discussed: The launch of 'Easy Target', a new book by friend of the show Adam Blum; supporting Talbot House, the Everyman's Club in the Belgian town of Poperinghe that provided respite for thousands of soldiers during WWI; Mat's new Signature Tour to Gallipoli; our upcoming 8-part special series on Gallipoli; and more!

Subscribe via Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes, early access to all episodes, ad-free listening and special online events with Mat McLachlan! https://www.patreon.com/MMHistory

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Find out more about the podcast and everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep203: Ypres - Exploring Yorkshire Trench

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 18:00:10 GMT

Join Mat on the battlefields as he explores Yorkshire Trench, a preserved British trench and dugout system that was discovered in an industrial estate near the Flanders town of Ypres in the 1990s.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Wouter Sinaeve

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Subscribe via Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes, early access to all episodes, ad-free listening and special online events with Mat McLachlan! https://www.patreon.com/MMHistory

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Find out more about the podcast and everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep202: Krithia: Gallipoli's Forgotten Anzac Battle (Live)

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 18:00:11 GMT

Join Mat for this special live presentation as he discusses the Second Battle of Krithia, a murderous ordeal at Gallipoli that most Australians and New Zealanders have never heard of!

Watch the video version of this podcast here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R-b5G9x9dFg

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Subscribe via Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes, early access to all episodes, ad-free listening and special online events with Mat McLachlan! https://www.patreon.com/MMHistory

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au/ for more information.

Find out more about the podcast and everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep201: JFK in WW2

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 22:43:36 GMT

Long before he became president, John F. Kennedy was a young naval officer in command of a patrol boat in the Solomon Islands. After a disastrous encounter with a Japanese ship, Kennedy saved his crew and became a war hero. In this episode, Mat is joined by author Brett Mason to explore the story of Kennedy's dramatic rescue and the Australian coastwatcher who played a vital role in saving Kennedy's life.

Brett Mason's new book, Saving Lieutenant Kennedy, is available now.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Brett Mason

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Subscribe via Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes, early access to all episodes, ad-free listening and special online events with Mat McLachlan! https://www.patreon.com/MMHistory

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit www.battlefields.com.au for more information.

Find out more about the podcast and everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep200: Bombers, Battlefields and Burial Grounds - A Look Back at 200 Episodes!

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 03:28:23 GMT

It's our 200th episode, and to celebrate Mat looks back at some of his favourite moments from the last five years. From convict graveyards to WW2 veterans and the death of Ned Kelly, this episode has it all!

Want to know more? Subscribe to listen to a special BONUS EPISODE - the full interview with Tobruk veteran Bert Le Merton - by clicking here: https://www.patreon.com/MMHistory

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Subscribe via Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes, early access to all episodes, ad-free listening and special online events with Mat McLachlan! https://www.patreon.com/MMHistory

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit www.battlefields.com.au for more information.

Find out more about the podcast and everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

REVISIT: The Nazi Invasion of Britain

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 00:40:29 GMT

What would have happened if the Nazis had won the Battle of Britain. In this fascinating 'what if?' revisit, Mat speaks to Professor Gary Sheffield about Operation Sea Lion, the German plans to invade the British Isles. Did it have any chance of success? How would Britain have responded? How would world history have been affected?

Here more from Gary on his podcast, Military History Plus: https://open.spotify.com/show/4bZPcMRYEfxvNkYTb7loa8

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Gary Sheffield

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Subscribe via Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes, early access to all episodes, ad-free listening and special online events with Mat McLachlan! https://www.patreon.com/MMHistory

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit https://battlefields.com.au for more information.

Find out more about the podcast and everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

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Ep199: London's Hidden War History

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 02:32:53 GMT

Mat joins guide Steve Hunnisett to walk the streets of London, seeking evidence of damage from two World Wars. From ghostly air raid shelter signs to bombed-out churches, the secrets of London's wartime history are never far away.

Want to know more? Subscribe to listen to a special BONUS EPISODE about walking London's war history, by clicking here: https://www.patreon.com/MMHistory

Watch the video version of this episode here: https://youtu.be/FDcA-6qsWTU

Join Steve Hunnisett on your own guided tour of London's war history: https://blitzwalkers.co.uk/

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Steve Hunnisett

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Subscribe via Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes, early access to all episodes, ad-free listening and special online events with Mat McLachlan! https://www.patreon.com/MMHistory

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit www.battlefields.com.au for more information.

Find out more about the podcast and everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

REVISIT: The Australian Light Horse

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 02:51:51 GMT

Mat visits the Anzac Memorial in Hyde Park to discuss the Australian Light Horse with historian Brad Manera.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Brad Manera

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Subscribe via Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes, early access to all episodes, ad-free listening and special online events with Mat McLachlan! https://www.patreon.com/MMHistory

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit www.battlefields.com.au for more information.

Find out more about the podcast and everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

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BONUS: Battle of Passchendaele (Live)

Fri, 16 Feb 2024 00:47:38 GMT

Mat hosts a YouTube live event about the Battle of Passchendaele, one of the bloodiest battles of the First World War.

See the video of the live event here: https://youtube.com/live/pfWdbJGaBZ0

Become a subscriber to receive exclusive bonus episodes, early access, ad-free listening, special events and more! https://www.patreon.com/MMHistory

Join us on a battlefield tour: https://battlefields.com.au

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Passchendaele: YouTube Live!

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 00:41:38 GMT

Join Mat McLachlan on YouTube Live on Feb 15, 2024 at 6pm Sydney (7am London) time to discuss the Battle of Passchendaele!

Click here to join: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pfWdbJGaBZ0

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Ep198: Waterloo Relics!

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 18:00:57 GMT

What can the relics of Waterloo tell us about the battle? Mat and historian Peter Hart visit the National Army Museum in London to inspect a bone saw that cut off a famous leg, the skeleton of Napoleon's horse, the canons and muskets that caused the carnage and much more!

Want to know more? Subscribe to listen to a special BONUS EPISODE about walking the battlefield of Waterloo, by clicking here: https://www.patreon.com/MMHistory

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Peter Hart

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Subscribe via Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes, early access to all episodes, ad-free listening and special online events with Mat McLachlan! https://www.patreon.com/MMHistory

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit www.battlefields.com.au for more information.

Find out more about the podcast and everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

REVISIT: Montbrehain 1918 - Australia's Last Battle

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 03:40:44 GMT

Mat McLachlan breaks down the Battle of Montbrehain, the Australian infantry's last action of the First World War.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Subscribe via Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes, early access to all episodes, ad-free listening and special online events with Mat McLachlan! https://www.patreon.com/MMHistory

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit www.battlefields.com.au for more information.

Find out more about the podcast and everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

REVISIT: Douglas Haig with Peter Hart

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 18:00:56 GMT

Was Field Marshal Douglas Haig the butcher he is often made out to be? Find out in this revisit of our podcast with Peter Hart!

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Peter Hart

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Subscribe via Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes, early access to all episodes, ad-free listening and special online events with Mat McLachlan! https://www.patreon.com/MMHistory

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit www.battlefields.com.au for more information.

Find out more about the podcast and everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep197: Mythbusting WWI with Gary Sheffield

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 23:25:41 GMT

Were the soldiers of the First World War really lions led by donkeys? Was everyone and no-one responsible for the outbreak of the First World War? Were Colonial troops better than the British? And was Gallipoli a brilliant plan let down by poor execution? Mat is joined by Professor Gary Sheffield to mythbust the First World War!

Want to know more? Subscribe to listen to a special BONUS EPISODE about the myth of the Chateau General, by clicking here: https://www.patreon.com/MMHistory

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Gary Sheffield

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Subscribe via Patreon for exclusive bonus episodes, early access to all episodes, ad-free listening and special online events with Mat McLachlan! https://www.patreon.com/MMHistory

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit www.battlefields.com.au for more information.

Find out more about the podcast and everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

REVISIT: Apollo Astronaut Charlie Duke

Fri, 02 Feb 2024 00:52:30 GMT

We are revisiting some of our most popular episodes as part of the new season of Living History! Today it's our interview with Apollo astronaut Charlie Duke, the tenth man to walk on the moon.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Charlie Duke

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit www.battlefields.com.au for more information.

Find out more about the podcast and everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep196: Masters of the Air with John McManus

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 03:01:42 GMT

We are back! Welcome to a new season of Living History. To kick off Season 8, Mat is joined by historian John McManus to discuss the new Tom Hanks/Steven Spielberg production Masters of the Air, currently streaming on Apple TV+. Mat and John discuss the history behind the mini-series, and the immense contribution made to victory in the Second World War by the US Army Air Forces. What was is like to take to the skies in a B-17 over Nazi Germany, what psychological effect did the terror of combat have on the young airmen, and should we feel uncomfortable about the human cost of strategic bombing more than eight decades after the war?

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: John McManus

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit www.battlefields.com.au for more information.

Find out more about the podcast and everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

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Long Tan Veteran Dave Sabben

Sun, 21 Jan 2024 21:59:48 GMT

We are revisiting some of our most popular episodes in the lead-up to the new season of Living History! Today it's our interview with Vietnam veteran Dave Sabben, who was a platoon commander during the Battle of Long Tan in 1966, Australia's costliest and most famous battle of the war.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Dave Sabben

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit www.battlefields.com.au for more information.

Find out more about the podcast and everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

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Battle of Britain with James Holland

Sat, 13 Jan 2024 22:45:13 GMT

We are revisiting one of our most popular episodes, a discussion of the Battle of Britain with historian James Holland. This was recorded in the depths of lockdown in 2020 - how far we've come since then!

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: James Holland

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit www.battlefields.com.au for more information.

Find out more about the podcast and everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ned Kelly's Final Days

Thu, 11 Jan 2024 04:10:07 GMT

We're back! In advancer of our new season, we are revisiting some of our favourite episodes from recent years!

This week we are exploring the last days of Ned Kelly before his execution at Old Melbourne Gaol.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit www.battlefields.com.au for more information.

Find out more about the podcast and everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep195: We Have Ways Festival Review!

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 14:16:19 GMT

I've just spent the weekend at the We Have Ways Festival, the UK's largest WW2 event! I heard some fascinating discussions from some of the world's leading military historians, and was able to record some interviews with them! My full overview of this brilliant event, and why you should attend next year!

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit www.battlefields.com.au for more information.

Find out more about the podcast and everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

D-Day: Digging Band of Brothers

Fri, 09 Jun 2023 05:00:29 GMT

Mat is joined by archaeologist Richard Osgood to discuss his latest project, an excavation of the English village where Easy Company, the famous 'Band of Brothers', trained before parachuting into Normandy on D-Day.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Richard Osgood

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit www.battlefields.com.au for more information.

Find out more about the podcast and everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Mat on the Battlefields of the Western Front!

Tue, 02 May 2023 06:30:46 GMT

Historian Mat McLachlan would love you to join him on his Signature Tour of the battlefields of France and Belgium in 2024. The Signature Tour is the only tour that Mat personally escorts, and it is the most popular tour offered by Mat McLachlan Battlefield Tours.

In 2024 the tour will visit all the key Australian battlefields of the Somme, the Ypres Salient and French Flanders. It starts and ends in Paris, and includes upgraded accommodation in the heart of the battlefields, many meals, plus visits to bonus sites not included on other tours.

And the best part is, the tour is also hosted by leading battlefield historian Pete Smith, co-host of the BattleWalks podcast (with Mat McLachlan). That's two leading historians on the same tour!

The tour will book out quickly so, if you would like to join us, please visit https://battlefields.com.au/western-front-signature-tour-with-mat-mclachlan-2024/

The Mat McLachlan Signature Tour is a 9-day tour that departs Paris on September 16, 2024.

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ANZAC DAY SPECIAL: Belgium, France and Gallipoli

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 05:47:31 GMT

In this special Anzac Day episode, Mat McLachlan speaks to historians Pete Smith and Peter Hart about the landscape of Belgium, France and Gallipoli, and how the secrets of the battlefields are still being revealed more than a century after the guns fell silent. Pete Smith reveals relics he's found on the battlefields of the Western Front, and Peter Hart describes how getting off the beaten track at Gallipoli can be the most rewarding adventure of all.

To book your own journey in the footsteps of the Anzacs, visit https://battlefields.com.au/

To find out everything Mat is doing in the history space, visit https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

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Walking Polygon Wood

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 06:48:44 GMT

Mat is back walking the battlefields of the Ypres Salient! This time it's Polygon Wood, scene of a great Australian victory in September 1917, but also a vitally important site for Canadian, New Zealand and British visitors. Mat is joined by historian Simon Louagie as they explore the former battlefield.

Presenters: Mat McLachlan and Simon Louagie

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Watch the video version here: https://youtu.be/I-wuOIS4thI

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit www.battlefields.com.au for more information.

Find out everything Mat is doing at https://linktr.ee/matmclachlan

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Walking Hill 60

Tue, 18 Apr 2023 02:58:49 GMT

In the second episode of his special series about walking the battlefields of the Ypres Salient, Mat is exploring the cratered landscape of Hill 60 to tell the story of bitter battles, huge mine explosions and desperate fights to the last man.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Watch the video version here: https://youtu.be/h8ExHk9U_b8

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit www.battlefields.com.au for more information.

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Walking the Battlefield of Passchendaele

Tue, 04 Apr 2023 06:54:38 GMT

Mat is back walking the battlefields of the Western Front. In this special episode he explores Passchendaele, scene of one of the most horrific battles of the First World War.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Watch the video version here: https://youtu.be/3pwy5tSAtco

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit www.battlefields.com.au for more information.

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

SPECIAL: Battle Tactics on the Western Front Tour

Thu, 15 Dec 2022 03:44:51 GMT

Your chance to walk the battlefields with Pete Smith!

In this special episode, Mat McLachlan and Pete Smith discuss their new tour, Battle Tactics on the Western Front, which walks in the footsteps of the Anzacs on some of the most important battlefields in France and Belgium.

Battle Tactics on the Western Front Tour: Departs Paris on October 11, 2023. Visit www.battlefields.com.au for full details!

Presenters: Mat McLachlan and Pete Smith

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mythbusting Pearl Harbor

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 22:04:54 GMT

On the anniversary of Pearl Harbor, Mat is joined by historian and author Richard B. Frank to look at new aspects of the attack that have only recently come to light.

Watch the video version of this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/4KzL8LwGGuE

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Richard B. Frank

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit www.battlefields.com.au for more information.

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Origins of Remembrance Day

Sat, 19 Nov 2022 03:19:48 GMT

It's November, and a time for reflection and remembrance. In this episode, Mat looks at the origins of Remembrance Day, and explores why this special day is still relevant more than a century after it was first commemorated.

Watch the video version of this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/2DNHXDh6kBI

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit www.battlefields.com.au for more information.

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Battle of Antietam

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 02:06:26 GMT

To commemorate the 160th anniversary of the 1862 battles of the American Civil War, Mat speaks to historian Dale Blair about the Battle of Antietam, the deadliest day of the war.

Presenters: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Dale Blair

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit www.battlefields.com.au for more information.

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

SPECIAL: Live from the Somme (sort of!)

Thu, 03 Nov 2022 00:59:19 GMT

The final episode in our special series live from the battlefields! Mat and Pete are in the Somme, discussing their adventures exploring the 1916 and 1918 battlefields.

Presenters: Mat McLachlan and Pete Smith

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit www.battlefields.com.au for more information.

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

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SPECIAL: Live from Ypres (Part 2)

Fri, 21 Oct 2022 00:56:48 GMT

Mat and Pete are still on the battlefields! Join them live from Ypres as they discuss three busy and rewarding days exploring the Salient!

Presenters: Mat McLachlan and Pete Smith

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit www.battlefields.com.au for more information.

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

SPECIAL: Live from Ypres

Sun, 25 Sep 2022 07:41:00 GMT

For the first time in three years, Mat McLachlan and Pete Smith are exploring the battlefields of the Western Front! In the first of a special series of episodes, join them as they discuss their day exploring the Somme 1918 battlefields, live from Ypres!

Presenters: Mat McLachlan and Pete Smith

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit www.battlefields.com.au for more information.

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Farewell to the Queen: Mat's Thoughts

Fri, 09 Sep 2022 22:06:54 GMT

In the second special episode about the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, Mat shares his thoughts about this moment in history.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit www.battlefields.com.au for more information.

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Farewell to the Queen: Kensington Palace

Fri, 09 Sep 2022 01:10:09 GMT

In the first of a special series of episodes commemorating the life of Queen Elizabeth II, Mat revisits an episode from 2019, when he toured Kensington Palace, one of the most iconic royal palaces.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Dr Meredith Crosby

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit www.battlefields.com.au for more information.

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lessons from History

Thu, 25 Aug 2022 05:03:00 GMT

Does history repeat itself in meaningful ways, or is each problem unique? How can a knowledge of Australian history enhance our understanding of the present and prepare us for the future? Mat speaks to Professor David Lowe about the compelling new book Lessons from History, and to hear how the challenges of the past are shaping our decisions for the future.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: David Lowe

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit www.battlefields.com.au for more information.

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Britain's Secret Atomic Tests in Australia

Wed, 17 Aug 2022 23:29:38 GMT

It's well-known that Britain tested atomic weapons at Maralinga in South Australian in the 1950s, but history has virtually forgotten that weapons were also tested at the nearby Emu Field. In a shroud of secrecy, experimental and unstable atomic bombs were detonated in the outback, and a terrifying black mist spread across the landscape. Why were the British there, what did they do and what lingering affects did the tests have on the local people? Mat speaks to Associate Professor Elizabeth Tynan to find out. Her new book The Secret of Emu Field is available now!

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Elizabeth Tynan

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit www.battlefields.com.au for more information.

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sandakan Death March with Tom Gilling

Wed, 10 Aug 2022 05:45:42 GMT

Mat is joined by journalist and historian Tom Gilling to discuss the Sandakan Death March, and a controversial witness to Japanese atrocities, Warrant Officer Bill Sticpewich. Sticpewich was one of only six men to survive the Death March and was a key witness in the war crimes trials that brought the Japanese to justice. But was he a war hero or a Japanese collaborator? Tom tells this controversial and fascinating story in his new book, The Witness, which is available now.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Tom Gilling

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit www.battlefields.com.au for more information.

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Executions in 19th-Century Sydney

Wed, 03 Aug 2022 04:19:38 GMT

Mat speaks to historian Dr Rachel Franks about 'Nosey Bob' Howard, the terrifying noseless hangman who executed 62 people in 19th-century Sydney.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Dr Rachel Franks

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit www.battlefields.com.au for more information.

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cowra Breakout Special 2: Dan Snow Interview

Wed, 27 Jul 2022 08:13:24 GMT

In the second special episode to celebrate the launch of Mat McLachlan's new book, The Cowra Breakout, Mat is interviewed by historian Dan Snow from History Hit all about the Breakout, and its significance as the largest prison escape of World War II.

Presenter: Dan Snow

Guest: Mat McLachlan

Order an autographed copy of The Cowra Breakout here: https://livinghistorytv.com/book/the-cowra-breakout

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

This episode is copyright History Hit. For their full range of podcasts and documentaries, visit www.historyhit.com

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Cowra Breakout Special 1: Pete & Gary Interview

Wed, 27 Jul 2022 06:23:07 GMT

A special interview with Mat McLachlan about his new book, The Cowra Breakout. Hosts of Pete & Gary's Military History podcast, Peter Hart and Gary Bain, sat down with Mat to discuss the story of the largest prison escape of the Second World War, which took place in the town of Cowra in 1944.

Presenters: Peter Hart and Gary Bain

Guest: Mat McLachlan

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Order an autographed copy of The Cowra Breakout here: https://livinghistorytv.com/book/the-cowra-breakout

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Vietnam: AATTV 60th Anniversary with Gary McKay

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 02:06:47 GMT

In July 1962 the Australian Army Training Team Vietnam (AATTV) deployed to Vietnam, the first Australian troops to set foot in South Vietnam during the war. To mark the 60th anniversary of that historic deployment, Mat is joined by veteran and historian Gary McKay MC to discuss the extraordinary accomplishments of 'The Team', which included some of the toughest fighting of the war and the earning of four Victoria Crosses.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Gary McKay MC

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Gary's new book, After the Blood Cools: The Warrior's Dilemma, is now available. Click here to purchase.

Join Gary on a tour to Vietnam in March 2023 and explore Australia's most famous Vietnam battlefields: Gary McKay Vietnam Tour

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

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WW2 Tank Crews with Peter Hart

Wed, 13 Jul 2022 00:47:47 GMT

To celebrate the release of his new book, Burning Steel: A Tank Regiment at War 1939-1945, Mat is joined by historian Peter Hart to discuss interviewing veterans, the changing nature of military history and the courage of tank crews in the Second World War.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Peter Hart

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit www.battlefields.com.au for more information.

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

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The Battle of Pozieres, 1916

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 07:38:17 GMT

In the second part of our special series about Australians on the Somme, Mat is joined by historian and battlefield guide Jo Hook to discuss the Battle of Pozieres in July and August 1916. In six weeks of brutal fighting, Australia lost 23,000 men, making this the most costly battle in Australian military history.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Jo Hook

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit www.battlefields.com.au for more information.

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

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The Battle of Fromelles, 1916

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 00:48:29 GMT

Mat is joined by historian Jo Hook to discuss the Battle of Fromelles in July 1916, Australia's darkest day on the battlefield. In 20 hours of fighting, 5533 men were killed, wounded or captured, and the echoes of this disastrous attack are still being felt today.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Jo Hook

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Join one of our battlefield tours and walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs! Visit www.battlefields.com.au for more information.

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

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The Science Behind Jurassic Park

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 00:56:22 GMT

To celebrate the release of the final movie in the Jurassic Park franchise, Mat is joined by palaeontologist Dave Hone to discuss the real science behind dinosaur hunting.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Dr David Hone

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

Check out Dave's full range of work at www.davehone.co.uk

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

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Japanese Midget Submarines

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 23:15:24 GMT

Mat speaks to Shane Casey, a curator at the Australian War Memorial, about how we can interpret the Japanese midget submarine attack on Sydney Harbour via the relics that remain.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Shane Casey

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

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Australian D-Day Pilots

Wed, 08 Jun 2022 03:27:17 GMT

Mat is joined by Australian War Memorial historian Dr Lachlan Grant to discuss the vital, yet often overlooked, role played by Australian airmen during the Normandy Campaign.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: Dr Lachlan Grant

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

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'Top Gun: Maverick' Reviewed by Navy Fighter Pilot!

Wed, 01 Jun 2022 05:08:41 GMT

Living History is back! In this first episode to kick off Season 6, Mat is joined by former US Navy fighter pilot and Top Gun instructor Vince "Jell-O" Aiello to discuss the new Top Gun: Maverick movie.

***SPOILER ALERT***: We discuss the plot in detail, so please watch the movie before listening to the podcast!

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

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New Vietnam War Book: After the Blood Cools

Tue, 05 Apr 2022 05:58:17 GMT

We are pleased to announce the launch of Gary McKay's new book, After the Blood Cools: The Warrior's Dilemma. This gripping account tells the story of Gary's service in Vietnam, his wounding in the last major battle of the war, his return to Australia and the difficult journey back to his old life. Join Mat for a special interview with Gary about the book.

To order your copy, visit https://livinghistorytv.com/book/after-the-blood-cools-the-warriors-dilemma-by-gary-mckay-mc/

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SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: Battlefield Tours are Back!!

Tue, 26 Oct 2021 23:21:35 GMT

Mat McLachlan previews our full range of battlefield tours for 2022. Walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs in Gallipoli, France, Vietnam, Thailand, Kokoda and many more!

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Special Update!

Thu, 14 Jan 2021 23:51:50 GMT

A special update from Mat about exciting developments in the world of Living History.

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Collecting Militaria

Thu, 07 Jan 2021 19:00:00 GMT

Mat is joined by historian Pete Smith to discuss the world of collecting militaria. What is it, why do we do it, and how can you do it too?

Presenter: Mat McLachlan Guest: Pete Smith Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

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Australians of Bomber Command

Mon, 30 Nov 2020 19:00:00 GMT

Mat speaks to Dr Lachlan Grant from the Australian War Memorial about the vital role played by Australian airmen who served in Bomber Command in the Second World War.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan Guest: Dr Lachlan Grant Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

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BONUS: BattleWalks - Walking the Somme

Tue, 24 Nov 2020 04:40:54 GMT

A special bonus episode of our new podcast series, BattleWalks, which explores the great battlefields of Europe. This episode features the Sunken Road sector of the Somme battlefield.

Subscribe to BattleWalks on Apple Podcasts, Google, Spotify, or on your favourite podcast app.

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Gallipoli (1981) Movie Review

Tue, 17 Nov 2020 06:25:48 GMT

Mat reviews the classic Australian film 'Gallipoli', starring Mel Gibson and directed by Peter Weir. How does it rate for both entertainment value and historical accuracy, and has it stood the test of time?

Presenter: Mat McLachlan Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

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Australian Women Pilots

Thu, 12 Nov 2020 05:59:59 GMT

Mat speaks to author Kathy Mexted about her new book, Australian Women Pilots, and the incredible tales of daring and adventure that define Australia's female aviators.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan Guest: Kathy Mexted Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

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The Maps of Charles Kingsford-Smith

Tue, 03 Nov 2020 03:25:04 GMT

Mat visits the Australian National Library to examine the maps of Charles Kingsford-Smith, that tell the story of his epic first flight across the Pacific in 1928.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan Guest: Martin Woods Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

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Battle Walks is Coming!

Thu, 29 Oct 2020 01:10:45 GMT

Our new podcast series, Battle Walks, which takes you across the great battlefields of Europe, is launching on November 4! In this episode, Mat speaks to co-host Peter Smith about exploring military history by walking the ground. Subscribe to Battle Walks on your favourite podcast app.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan Guest: Peter Smith Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

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Guy Fawkes' Confession

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 03:43:56 GMT

Mat travels to the UK National Archives to examine the original document signed by Guy Fawkes confessing his role in the attempt to blow up Parliament in 1605. The date of the 'Gunpowder Plot', November 5, is still celebrated in Britain as Guy Fawkes Night.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

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The Red Baron

Tue, 13 Oct 2020 01:00:38 GMT

Mat speaks to historian Dr Aaron Pegram about the fascinating items relating to the Red Baron featured in the collection of the Australian War Memorial.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan Guest: Dr Aaron Pegram Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

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Dorothy Paty - Colonial Artist

Tue, 06 Oct 2020 05:26:39 GMT

In the 1830s British woman Dorothy English Paty moved to Newcastle, NSW, with her husband and young family. There she began painting watercolours of the strange and intriguing native plants and flowers she encountered. Today her watercolours are part of the collection of the Australian National Library, and they tell more than just a story of botany and art. They tell the story of an extraordinary pioneering woman, and her life, love and grief in her new home.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan Guest: Nat Williams Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

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The Great War Group with Alex Churchill

Mon, 28 Sep 2020 20:00:00 GMT

Mat speaks to historian Alexandra Churchill about the Great War Group, her new online community that aims to give new perspectives on the First World War.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan Guest: Alexandra Churchill Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

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REVISIT: Battle of Nui Le

Thu, 24 Sep 2020 20:00:00 GMT

This week marks the 49th anniversary of the Battle of Nui Le, Australia's last major battle of the Vietnam War. To commemorate the anniversary, here is a special replay of the interview Mat conducted with veteran Gary McKay, who was a platoon commander in 4RAR in Vietnam. Gary was badly wounded during the battle, and was awarded the Military Cross for his leadership and courage.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan Guest: Gary McKay MC Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

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Great War Veterans with Richard van Emden

Mon, 21 Sep 2020 20:00:00 GMT

Mat speaks to author and historian Richard van Emden about the 270 Great War veterans he interviewed in the 1980s and 1990s, and how their words and photographs have influenced his understanding of the First World War.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan Guest: Richard van Emden Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

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Trapped Behind Enemy Lines

Mon, 14 Sep 2020 23:04:19 GMT

Mat speaks to battlefield historian John Anderson about British soldiers trapped behind German lines in the First World War, who were sheltered at great risk by French and Belgian families.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan Guest: John Anderson Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

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Sydney's Lost Cemetery

Tue, 08 Sep 2020 06:53:53 GMT

Mat visits the State Library of NSW to examine an extraordinary collection of century-old photographs, which tells the story of one of Sydney's earliest and most significant burial grounds.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan Guest: Elise Edmonds Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

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Battle of Mont St Quentin

Mon, 31 Aug 2020 05:10:48 GMT

Mat speaks to historian and battlefield tour guide Jo Hook about the Battle of Mont St Quentin, claimed to be one of the 'finest Australian feats' of the First World War.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan Guest: Jo Hook Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

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Walking Passchendaele

Tue, 25 Aug 2020 06:21:40 GMT

In the latest in our series of walks across the battlefields of the First World War, Mat takes us to Passchendaele, scene of one of the most horrific battles of the war.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

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Teddy Sheean Awarded VC after 78 Years

Tue, 18 Aug 2020 00:18:17 GMT

This week Ordinary Seaman Teddy Sheean was awarded a posthumous Victoria Cross for an act of valour that occurred in 1942. In this episode, Mat speaks to historian David Howell about this unique decision, and the actions that led to Teddy losing his life, but winning our greatest gallantry award.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan Guest: David Howell Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

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Why Truman Dropped the Bomb

Mon, 10 Aug 2020 20:00:00 GMT

On the 75th anniversary of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Mat speaks to historian Richard B. Frank about new evidence that exposes just why America dropped the bombs.

Were the Japanese ready to surrender before the bombings? How was the Soviet Union involved in ending the war? What role did code-breaking play in revealing Japan's final plans?

Presenter: Mat McLachlan Guest: Richard B. Frank Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

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Echo in the Canyon: LA's 1960s Music Scene

Mon, 03 Aug 2020 20:00:00 GMT

Mat speaks to music producer and former Capital Records CEO Andrew Slater about his new documentary, 'Echo in the Canyon', which tells the story of the music scene in Los Angeles' Laurel Canyon in the mid-1960s. The music of the Byrds, the Beach Boys, the Mamas and the Papas, Buffalo Springfield and more is brought to life through interviews with original bandmembers and new musical interpretations of some of the biggest songs of the 60s.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan Guest: Andrew Slater Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

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Movie Review: Greyhound

Tue, 28 Jul 2020 02:37:49 GMT

Mat is joined by WW2 historian James Holland to discuss 'Greyhound', the new Tom Hanks movie that tells the story of an American destroyer doing battle with U-Boats in the mid-Atlantic in 1942.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan Guest: James Holland Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

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Remembering Fromelles

Tue, 21 Jul 2020 01:30:30 GMT

Battlefield historian Peter Smith joins Mat to discuss the Battle of Fromelles, the most costly 24 hours in Australian military history. On this terrible day, 5533 Australians were killed, wounded or captured.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan Guest: Peter Smith Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

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Battle of Pozieres 1916

Mon, 13 Jul 2020 20:00:00 GMT

In this special episode, Mat is interviewed by Adam Blum about the Battle of Pozieres, which was fought as part of the Somme campaign in July and August 1916. In six weeks of brutal fighting, more than 23,000 Australians were killed or wounded, making it the most costly battle in Australian history.

Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Mat McLachlan Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

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Animals at War

Tue, 07 Jul 2020 05:03:55 GMT

Mat speaks to historian Michael Tyquin about the role of animals on the battlefields of the First World War, and the bonds they formed with their human comrades.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan Guest: Michael Tyquin Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

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Walking Ypres

Mon, 29 Jun 2020 20:00:00 GMT

Join Mat on a walking tour around the Belgian town of Ypres, which was the scene of five huge battles during the First World War, and today is a living monument to the men who fought and died in its fields.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

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SPECIAL: The Gallipoli Evacuation Book is Here!

Fri, 26 Jun 2020 02:37:57 GMT

In this special podcast episode, Mat McLachlan, Peter Hart and Gary Bain announce the launch of Peter's new book, The Gallipoli Evacuation, available now to order on www.LivingHistoryTV.com!

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Australia's War in Afghanistan

Mon, 22 Jun 2020 20:00:00 GMT

Mat speaks to Dr Rhys Crawley from the Australian War Memorial, who is the Official Historian of Australia's involvement in the Afghanistan War. Rhys breaks down the stages of Australia's involvement, discusses his difficult job writing the Official History, and explores the effect the war has had on its more than 35,000 Australian veterans.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan Guest: Dr Rhys Crawley Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

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Battle of Isandlwana

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 03:51:50 GMT

Mat speaks to military historian Dan Hill about the Battle of Isandlwana in 1879, when British troops were massacred by a superior Zulu force, one of the most bloody defeats ever experienced by the British Army.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan Guest: Dan Hill Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

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D-Day: The Australian Story

Tue, 09 Jun 2020 05:13:12 GMT

In the second of our special D-Day episodes, Mat speaks to Dr Lachlan Grant from the Australian War Memorial about the vital, yet often overlooked, contribution of Australian forces to the D-Day landings and the Battle of Normandy.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan Guest: Dr Lachlan Grant Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

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D-Day: The British Story

Sun, 31 May 2020 20:00:00 GMT

This week marks the anniversary of the D-Day landings in 1944, and to commemorate it we are speaking to military historian Paul Reed about the British contribution on D-Day. The British and Commonwealth role on this most famous day is often overlooked in favour of the American sacrifice at Omaha and Utah Beaches. But in reality the British played a vital role in the landings, bringing in hundreds of thousands of troops on Sword, Juno and Gold Beaches, and facing the brunt of German counter-attacks.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan Guest: Paul Reed Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

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WWI: Treating the Wounded

Sun, 24 May 2020 20:00:00 GMT

Mat speaks to historian Andy Robertshaw about medical treatment in the First World War. What care would a soldier receive on the battlefield, how was he evacuated and could he expect to survive?

Presenter: Mat McLachlan Guest: Andy Robertshaw Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

Don't forget to subscribe and review the podcast!

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SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: Our new podcast!

Tue, 19 May 2020 23:17:36 GMT

Our new podcast series, Treasures from the Vault, is launching this week! Join me as I go behind the scenes at the world's great museums, libraries and archives to explore the items that helped shape history!

Look out for Treasures from the Vault on your favourite podcasting app, and don't forget to subscribe and review!

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Battle of Britain with James Holland

Sun, 17 May 2020 22:00:00 GMT

Eighty years after the RAF did battle with the Luftwaffe in the skies over south-east England, Mat speaks to WW2 historian James Holland about the reality and legacy of the Battle of Britain.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan Guest: James Holland Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

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The Gallipoli Evacuation Book is Coming!

Fri, 15 May 2020 00:54:24 GMT

In this special joint podcast, Mat McLachlan speaks to Peter Hart about his new book, The Gallipoli Evacuation. Look out for the book in early-September, and pre-order it on LivingHistoryTV.com from June to receive a very special bonus from Peter Hart!

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Veterans Going Back to Vietnam

Sun, 10 May 2020 14:30:00 GMT

Mat is joined by Vietnam veteran Gary McKay, who was awarded the Military Cross and severely wounded in combat in 1971, to discuss the ways veterans put their lives back together after the war, and the significance of returning to the former battlefields of Vietnam.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan Guest: Lt-Col (ret) Gary McKay, MC Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

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A Message from Mat McLachlan

Wed, 06 May 2020 02:02:37 GMT

A special message from Mat McLachlan about the lockdown and upcoming projects at Living History.

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1945: Victory in Europe

Sun, 03 May 2020 14:30:00 GMT

This week marks the 75th anniversary of VE Day, the end of the Second World War in Europe. Mat speaks to Professor Gary Sheffield about the battles that defined the last year of the war, and led the Allies to victory.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan Guest: Professor Gary Sheffield Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

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Anzac Day Special 2: Walking Gallipoli

Sun, 26 Apr 2020 14:30:00 GMT

In our second special Anzac Day episode, Mat guides you on a virtual walking tour around some of the key Australian sites at Gallipoli.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

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BONUS: Letters from Lockdown - Peter Hart

Sun, 26 Apr 2020 05:52:51 GMT

In his new video series, 'Letters from Lockdown', Mat brings you interviews with interesting people dealing with isolation at home. Episode 1 features historian Peter Hart.

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

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Anzac Day Special: Gallipoli Revisited

Sat, 25 Apr 2020 04:37:12 GMT

Join Mat McLachlan, Peter Hart and Gary Bain for a special Anzac Day episode. Two podcasts come together - Living History and Peter Hart's Military History - to explore why Gallipoli means so much to Australia and NZ, why it means significantly less to Britain and France, and what the future of remembrance holds for the ill-fated campaign.

Presenters: Mat McLachlan, Peter Hart and Gary Bain Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

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Anzac Day 2020 in France

Tue, 21 Apr 2020 02:16:03 GMT

With Anzac Day commemorations cancelled all over the world, what will be taking place in France to remember the Anzacs this year? Mat is joined by Dana Levy from Northern France Tourism to discuss the significance of Anzac Day to the people of France, and what they are doing to make sure the Anzacs are not forgotten.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan Guest: Dana Levy Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

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Bougainville 1945: Battle of Slater's Knoll

Mon, 13 Apr 2020 07:24:24 GMT

Mat speaks with Dr Karl James from the Australian War Memorial about the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Slater's Knoll, a key action in the Bougainville Campaign of 1944/45.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan Guest: Dr Karl James Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

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Gallipoli: The Great Storm

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 02:41:14 GMT

Mat speaks to historian Peter Hart about the Great Storm that struck the Gallipoli peninsula in November 1915. In a matter of days trenches flooded, the landscape was blanketed in snow and ice, and hundreds of men died of exposure. Read more about the storm and the entire Gallipoli Evacuation in Peter Hart's new book, being published by Living History in August 2020.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan Guest: Peter Hart Producer: Jess Stebnicki

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Movie Review: '1917'

Mon, 30 Mar 2020 03:27:39 GMT

As we commemorate the 103rd anniversary of the Withdrawal to the Hindenburg Line, Mat looks back on last year's '1917', a movie that brings to life this dramatic chapter of First World War history.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

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Australia after WWI

Sun, 22 Mar 2020 13:30:00 GMT

Mat speaks with Professor Joan Beaumont from the Australian National University about Australia in the years after the First World War. What was life like for returned soldiers, how did the Great Depression impact the lives of ordinary people, and did we create a 'Land Fit for Heroes' as we promised the soldiers we would?

Presenter: Mat McLachlan Guest: Professor Joan Beaumont Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

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Live from the Australian War Memorial

Sun, 15 Mar 2020 22:43:22 GMT

Mat travels to the Australian War Memorial in Canberra to speak with historians Dr Karl James, Dr Aaron Pegram and Dr Roger Lee about the future of remembrance in Australia.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan Guests: Karl James, Aaron Pegram, Roger Lee Producer: Jess Stebnicki

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

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Sandakan Death Marches

Sun, 08 Mar 2020 13:30:00 GMT

This month marks the 75th anniversary of the Sandakan Death Marches, the brutal forced marching of Australian POWs by the Japanese in Borneo, which resulted in the deaths of more than 2400 prisoners.

In this confronting episode, historian Lynette Silver reveals the true story of the death marches, the horror of the ordeal for the Australian prisoners, and the legacy they have left us. (Please note that this episode may be distressing for some listeners.)

Presenter: Mat McLachlan Guest: Lynette Silver Producer: Jess Stebnicki Editor: Landon Grace

For more information about Lynette's work, visit https://lynettesilver.com/

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

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Formation of the Nazi Party

Sun, 01 Mar 2020 13:30:00 GMT

This month marks the centenary of the formation of the Nazi Party. In this episode Mat is joined by historian Dr Marco Durante to discuss the origins and legacies of this infamous regime.

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

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Bombing of Darwin Anniversary

Mon, 24 Feb 2020 02:01:42 GMT

Mat travels to Darwin for the anniversary of the 1942 bombing raid that destroyed the town and brought the Second World War to Australia. In this episode he speaks with Norm Cramp from the Darwin Military Museum about the legacy of that devastating attack.

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

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Sydney vs Emden with Brad Manera

Sun, 16 Feb 2020 13:30:00 GMT

Brad Manera, Director of the Anzac Memorial in Hyde Park, Sydney, joins Mat to discuss the first victory of the Royal Australian Navy, when HMAS Sydney sunk the German raider SMS Emden in 1914. A damaged gun, recovered from the wreck of the Emden, stands in the park as a monument to the battle, and forms a tangible link to this fascinating chapter of history.

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

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Battlefield Guiding with Jo Hook

Mon, 10 Feb 2020 04:08:27 GMT

Mat is joined by full-time battlefield guide Jo Hook to discuss her rewarding career spent in the footsteps of the soldiers of WW1 and WW2.

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

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BONUS: The Sentimental Bloke

Tue, 04 Feb 2020 13:30:00 GMT

Mat visits the National Film and Sound Archive to see the restored version of 'The Sentimental Bloke', one of the earliest Australian silent films, more than a century after its first release.

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

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Interview with Dan Snow

Sun, 02 Feb 2020 13:30:00 GMT

Mat is joined by leading UK historian Dan Snow to discuss the importance of history in an ever-changing world, and the new ways history is being studied, explored and presented.

Learn more about Dan's history work and subscribe to his digital history channel at www.historyhit.com

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

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REVIST: Apollo Astronaut Charlie Duke

Sun, 19 Jan 2020 14:00:00 GMT

In July 2019 we recorded one of our most popular podcasts of the year, an interview with Apollo 16 astronaut Charlie Duke, the 10th man to walk on the moon. Please enjoy this revisit of that very special interview.

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

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BONUS: Mat McLachlan interviewed by Adam Blum

Mon, 13 Jan 2020 12:06:37 GMT

The format is reversed in this special episode of the podcast, as new podcaster Adam Blum interviews Mat McLachlan about the meaning and legacy of Anzac.

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

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Bletchley Park: Decoding Enigma

Mon, 06 Jan 2020 22:09:12 GMT

Join Mat as he explores Bletchley Park and learns how the Enigma machine was cracked in WW2.

Watch the documentary here: https://youtu.be/JDlda6K_XmI

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

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Christmas Truce with Dr Roger Lee

Sun, 22 Dec 2019 14:00:00 GMT

Mat speaks to Dr Roger Lee from the Australian War Memorial about the origins and legacy of the Christmas Truce, one of the most enduring chapters of the First World War.

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

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North Africa 1941, with Dr Karl James

Sun, 15 Dec 2019 14:00:00 GMT

Mat joins Dr Karl James, Head of Military History at the Australian War Memorial, for a guided tour of the 1941 gallery. Karl gives his unique perspective on key items in the museum's collection, and the picture they paint of fighting in North Africa in 1941.

Highlights include an artwork depicting the capture of Bardia, an improvised anti-aircraft battery on a truck, a dramatic diorama of the Siege of Tobruk, the only item recovered from the lost HMAS Sydney, General Montgomery's distinctive slouch hat, and the first Victoria Cross awarded to an Australian in WW2.

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

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WWI Prisoners with Dr Aaron Pegram

Sun, 08 Dec 2019 14:00:00 GMT

Prisoners of war are most commonly associated with the Second World War, but thousands of men were also captured during the First World War, and their stories have rarely been told.

Join Mat as he speaks to Dr Aaron Pegram about his new book, 'Surviving the Great War', and the unique experiences of First World War POWs, before, during and after the conflict.

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

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Men of the AIF with Adam Holloway

Sat, 07 Dec 2019 05:10:16 GMT

In this bonus episode of Living History, Mat speaks to Adam Holloway about his book, 'Duty Nobly Done', and how the story of the Australian Imperial Force is told via 11 men from the same family who all served in the Great War.

For more great history content, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com, or subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/c/LivingHistoryTV

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The Eureka Stockade with Prof Frank Bongiorno

Sun, 01 Dec 2019 14:00:00 GMT

Mat speaks to Professor Frank Bongiorno from the Australian National University in Canberra about the Eureka Stockade, the 1854 armed rebellion on the Victorian goldfields that led to sweeping democratic changes in the young Australian colonies.

Visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com to explore more exciting chapters of history.

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Exploring Kensington Palace

Sun, 24 Nov 2019 14:00:00 GMT

Join Mat in an exclusive tour of Kensington Palace, walking in the footsteps of the young Queen Victoria, who was born and raised in the Palace.

For more information, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com

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Lord's Cricket Ground - Behind the Scenes

Sun, 17 Nov 2019 21:46:37 GMT

To celebrate the start of cricket season, Mat takes a behind-the-scenes tour of Lord's, the world's most famous cricket ground, and examines artefacts that tell the story of cricket throughout the centuries.

For more information, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com

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The Death of Ned Kelly

Sun, 10 Nov 2019 14:00:00 GMT

On the 139th anniversary of Ned Kelly's death, Mat visits Old Melbourne Gaol to learn about the final day's of Ned's life, his death and his legacy.

For more information, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com

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Anzac & Aviator with Michael Molkentin

Sun, 03 Nov 2019 14:00:00 GMT

Mat speaks to Dr Michael Molkentin about his new book, 'Anzac & Aviator', which tells the incredible story of Ross Smith, a WWI fighter ace who flew the first air journey from England to Australia in 1919.

For more, visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com

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Dan Carlin: The End is Always Near

Sun, 27 Oct 2019 13:00:00 GMT

Mat speaks to Dan Carlin from the Hardcore History podcast about lessons from history, and his new book The End is Always Near.

For more information visit www.LivingHistoryTV.com

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Mudlarking on the Thames with Lara Maiklem

Sun, 20 Oct 2019 23:10:41 GMT

Mat spends an enjoyable afternoon with 'mudlarker' Lara Maiklem on the bank of the River Thames, as they hunt for historic artefacts revealed by the daily tides.

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The Search for Amelia Earhart with Bob Ballard

Tue, 15 Oct 2019 01:49:12 GMT

Mat speaks to Dr Bob Ballard, the man who discovered the wreck of the Titanic, about his recent search for the wreckage of Amelia Earhart's aircraft in the Pacific.

'Expedition Amelia' premieres on Tuesday, Oct 22 on National Geographic.

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Sir Douglas Haig with Peter Hart

Sun, 13 Oct 2019 13:00:00 GMT

Historian Peter Hart from the Imperial War Museum joins Mat to discuss the reputation of Field Marshal Sir Douglas Haig, Commander in Chief of the British Army during the First World War. Was he a butcher who squandered the life of his men, or was he a skillful commander who oversaw a great victory?

For more information, visit www.battlefields.com.au

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Commonwealth War Graves Commission

Sun, 06 Oct 2019 19:00:00 GMT

Mat goes behind the scenes at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, and speaks with Director General, Victoria Wallace about the important work to honour the 1.7 million men and women of the Commonwealth forces who died in the First and Second World Wars.

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Live from the Australian War Memorial

Sun, 29 Sep 2019 20:00:00 GMT

Mat visits the Australian War Memorial and is joined by historians Dr Karl James, Dr Lachlan Grant and Dr Kerrie Neal to answer your questions!

For more information, visit www.battlefields.com.au

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History as it Happens with Amelia Adams

Fri, 27 Sep 2019 16:31:39 GMT

Mat is in London and catches up with Channel 9's European Correspondent Amelia Adams about reporting on important moments in history as they unfold.

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MCG Behind the Scenes

Sun, 22 Sep 2019 20:00:00 GMT

To celebrate football grand final week, join Mat as he explores the Melbourne Cricket Ground, discovering the history and legacy of one of the world's great sporting venues.

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Australian War Memorial - Behind the Scenes

Sun, 15 Sep 2019 20:00:00 GMT

Join Mat as he is granted exclusive access to the Australian War Memorial's large items storage area. In this behind-the-scenes tour, Mat examines unique artefacts that tell the story of Australia's military history from WWI to Afghanistan, including captured artillery guns, a German V2 rocket, a Japanese suicide boat, the world's first anti-air missile and much more.

For more information visit www.battlefields.com.au

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BONUS: Bletchley Park, RAF Museum and Paris

Sun, 15 Sep 2019 13:59:01 GMT

A bonus episode of the podcast, exploring Mat's recent visits to Bletchley Park, the RAF Museum and Paris.

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The Pacific War with Professor Peter Dean

Wed, 11 Sep 2019 20:00:00 GMT

Mat speaks with Professor Peter Dean from the University of Western Australia about the significance of the Pacific War, 75 years after it was fought.

For more information, visit www.battlefields.com.au

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Dr Brendan Nelson - Director of the Australian War Memorial

Sun, 08 Sep 2019 20:00:00 GMT

In the first of a series of special episodes from the Australian War Memorial in Canberra, Mat speaks to Dr Brendan Nelson, who has been Director of the Memorial for the past seven years. Topics include the importance of remembrance, Dr Nelson's visits to the Menin Gate in Ypres, the evolving role of the AWM and the controversial expansion plans for the museum.

For more information, visit www.battlefields.com.au

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The Ashes with Greg Chappell

Sun, 08 Sep 2019 04:00:37 GMT

Mat speaks to former Australian cricket captain Greg Chappell about his illustrious career, and the history and significance of one of sport's great rivalries, the Ashes.

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Battle of Milne Bay with Dr Karl James

Tue, 03 Sep 2019 22:44:49 GMT

Mat joins Dr Karl James, Head of Military History at the Australian War Memorial, to discuss the Battle of Milne Bay, one of Australia's most important actions of the Pacific War.

For more information, visit www.battlefields.com.au

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Australia’s Missing WW2 Heroes on Nauru

Sun, 01 Sep 2019 20:00:00 GMT

Mat speaks with archaeologist Dr Matthew Kelly about the Nauru Missing 5 - five incredible Australians who, between 1940 and 1943 at the outbreak of the Pacific War, elected to stay on the island of Nauru to protect the Indigenous population and uphold law and order despite the threat of invasion by Japanese forces. These men gave their lives, their bodies never found: Lieutenant Colonel Frederick Royden Chalmers, Mr William Henry Doyle, Mr Frederick Francis Harmer, Dr Bernard Haselden Quin, and Mr Wilfred Shugg.

They were recently honoured in the 2019 Governor General Bravery Awards, and a team is working to locate them, and undertake an archaeological dig to repatriate them.

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Remembering Australia’s Fallen in Afghanistan

Wed, 28 Aug 2019 20:00:00 GMT

Mat speaks with Afghanistan veteran, Matthew Botcher and Sean Mulqueen from 42for42 about the importance of remembering Australia's fallen in Afghanistan - the longest war Australia has been involved in, extending over 10 years, with Operation Slipper running from 2001 to 2014. More than 26,000 Australian soldiers served in Afghanistan, with 41 of these soldiers killed in action. Others lost their lives in training before shipping out, and through taking their own lives on return home. 42for42, a not-for-profit, is undertaking the incredible task to build a Memorial Garden for Afghanistan adjacent Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane. You can help the fundraising effort by buying a raffle ticket, participating in or sponsoring a team in the 42 hour walk around Suncorp stadium, or making a tax-deductible donation, learn more here: https://www.42for42.org.au/donationall/donations

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The Australian Light Horse

Sun, 25 Aug 2019 20:00:00 GMT

Mat interviews Brad Manera, Senior Historian at the Anzac Memorial, about the Australian Light Horse - the 1st Light Horse Regiment was raised in Sydney, August 1914.

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History of the Olympic Games

Sun, 18 Aug 2019 20:00:00 GMT

Mat speaks to Olympic historian David Wallechinsky about the history of the ancient and modern Olympic Games, as we count down to Tokyo 2020.

For more information, visit www.battlefields.com.au

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WAR STORIES: Long Tan Veteran Dave Sabben

Mon, 12 Aug 2019 01:44:18 GMT

In this special Vietnam Veteran's Day episode, Mat speaks to Dave Sabben, commander of 12 Platoon during 1966's iconic Battle of Long Tan.

For more information visit www.battlefields.com.au

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Japanese Perspectives on WW2 with Keiko Tamura

Fri, 09 Aug 2019 23:37:16 GMT

Historian Dr Keiko Tamura from the Australian National University joins Mat to discuss her work studying the relationship between Japan and Australia during WW2, and the motivations that led Japan to war.

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Cowra Breakout 75th Anniversary

Mon, 05 Aug 2019 08:03:38 GMT

Join Mat as he participates in the 75th anniversary of the Cowra Breakout, the largest prison breakout in modern history.

For more information, visit www.battlefields.com.au

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Key Moments in History with Ray Martin

Mon, 29 Jul 2019 06:42:09 GMT

Mat interviews veteran TV journalist Ray Martin about his work reporting on the key moments in history over his 50-year-career. Mat and Ray will be escorting a tour to the Western Front in June 2020 - learn how you can join them at www.battlefields.com.au

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Treasures from the State Library of NSW

Mon, 22 Jul 2019 04:46:59 GMT

Join Mat as he explores rare manuscripts and historic objects in the collection of the State Library of NSW, escorted by curator Maggie Patton. Highlights include Shakespeare's First Folio, Captain Cook's personal bible, a 1788 map of Sydney Cove, a heartbreaking dedication to a lost WWI soldier and Australia's first newspaper.

Don't forget to subscribe, and to leave us a review! For more information visit www.battlefields.com.au

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[MOON LANDING SPECIAL 4] New Apollo 11 Movie

Thu, 18 Jul 2019 05:10:21 GMT

In the final episode of our special series commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Apollo moon landing, Mat speaks to Stephen Slater about his work on the new Apollo 11 film, which uses never-before-seen high quality footage and thousands of hours of sound archive to tell the story of Apollo 11 from the perspective of the people who made it happen.

Don't forget to subscribe and review Living History, and visit www.battlefields.com.au for more information.

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[MOON LANDING SPECIAL 3] Apollo Astronaut Charlie Duke

Sun, 14 Jul 2019 22:53:35 GMT

In this extraordinary interview, Mat speaks to Apollo astronaut Charlie Duke, the 10th man to walk on the moon and one of only four moonwalkers still alive. Charlie discusses his role in the entire Apollo program, including as the voice of mission control during Apollo 11, his vital role in the rescue of Apollo 13, and his journey to the moon on Apollo 16.

If you are enjoying this podcast, please subscribe and give us a review! For more information, visit www.battlefields.com.au

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[MOON LANDING SPECIAL 2] Australia and Apollo

Sun, 07 Jul 2019 20:00:00 GMT

Mat speaks to John Sarkissian, a scientist at the CSIRO Radio Telescope at Parkes (the famous 'Dish') about Australia's crucial role in the space race, and its most famous broadcast - the live footage of man landing on the moon.

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[SPECIAL] Chris Masters joins our WW2 Cruise!

Wed, 03 Jul 2019 20:00:00 GMT

Renowned Four Corners journalist Chris Masters is joining our WW2 Cruise as Master of Ceremonies for the onboard conference. In this special podcast, he speaks to Mat about the upcoming voyage.

The 11-day cruise departs Brisbane in August 2020 and visits key Australian battlefields including Milne Bay and Port Moresby. It also features a special onboard conference about WW2 hosted by some of Australia's best historians. For more information, visit www.battlefields.com.au

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[MOON LANDING SPECIAL 1] The Apollo Space Program

Sun, 30 Jun 2019 20:00:00 GMT

In this first of a series of special episodes commemorating the 50th anniversary of man landing on the moon, Mat speaks with NASA historian Brian Odom about the Apollo space program, its achievements and failures and its lasting legacy.

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Treaty of Versailles 100th Anniversary

Fri, 28 Jun 2019 02:14:53 GMT

Mat discusses the Treaty of Versailles, which ended the First World War one hundred years ago this week. This vitally important document changed the course of world history, and had important implications for Australia's place in the world.

For more information visit www.battlefields.com.au

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[BONUS] Jungle Warfare with Gary McKay

Wed, 26 Jun 2019 00:51:29 GMT

Mat speaks to Vietnam veteran Gary McKay about our upcoming WW2 cruise and Gary's contribution to the onboard conference - the evolution of jungle warfare.

To join us on the cruise, visit https://battlefields.com.au/papua-new-guinea-ww2-history-cruise/

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Lost Diggers of Fromelles - Interview with Lambis Englezos

Sun, 23 Jun 2019 20:00:00 GMT

Mat sits down with Lambis Englezos, the Melbourne schoolteacher who discovered a mass grave containing 250 Australian soldiers killed at Fromelles in July 1916. In this emotional interview, Lambis discusses the process of discovering the mass grave, the obstacles that needed to be overcome and the fulfillment of a decade-long dream when the bodies were identified and reinterred.

For more details visit www.battlefields.com.au

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