New Australian podcast series to launch with two live shows during Perth FRINGE WORLD

National launch of “Australian Highlights” podcast uncovers lost stories of Australian innovation and invention 

As the inaugural episodes are released, there will be two live episodes in celebration – with tickets available to join the audience 

Perth, January - A new Australian podcast series is set to hit podcast services across the country – with the series set to kick off with a live show in Perth during FRINGE WORLD. 

The Australian Highlights series explores the captivating stories behind Australia's most groundbreaking innovations. A collection of podcast interviews, explainers and online articles, the Australian Highlights series shines the spotlight on stories that Aussies haven’t heard before, highlighting the ingenuity and diversity that propel the country forward. 

Written and hosted by Rachel Rayner, Science Explainer, she’s on the hunt for people and moments of Australian innovation that are not – yet – common knowledge. 

“I've found two great stories to bring to FRINGE WORLD for the launch of Australian Highlights,” says Rachel. "We'll venture deep into space, across the Western Australian outback, and see how we stack up against the rest of the world. 

"I'm looking forward to bringing these stories to the stage and have the people of Perth there to celebrate with us.” 

The Live Shows 

There will be two shows at SciTech during FRINGE WORLD. To book, visit the FRINGE WORLD website. 

Australian Highlights – Live

Dates: 8 Feb and 9 Feb, 7:30pm

Venue: SciTech, City West Centre

Tickets: https://fringeworld.com.au/whats_on/australian-highlights-live-fw2025 

Featuring live on stage with Rachel on February 8 will be the story of a Perth resident who discovered the Long Period Transient. 

“Yes, the name might be uninspiring but the discovery is anything but: hearing any astronomer or quantum physicist talk about it illuminates the exciting possibilities it opens up for our understanding of the Universe,” says Rachel. “Perth’s own Natasha Hurley-Walker will reveal the roller-coaster journey that brought her here: forging opportunities and following a hunch after multiple set-backs and disparagement from established modes of thinking.” 

The next show, February 9, will see Rachel speak with the head of science communication studies at the University of Western Australia, Dr Heather Bray who will outline the importance of dedicated science communicators and Australia’s innovative role. 

“So how did Australia come to be involved in developing a professional discipline, and how is it continuing to lead the world in untangling the big issues for all audiences?” says Rachel. “We’ll explore all of that with a true leader in the field.” 

The Podcast: Two Episodes Set to Launch 

"At the same time, we will release our first two episodes on two very different topics: the innovation of Australia's first all-female production company in the silent film era, and contemporary innovator Mik Jade who is connecting Indigenous cultures to high-end technology," says Rachel on the launch of the unique podcast which dives into true and often-unknown stories of Australian innovation. 

Rachel is also looking for other stories and highlights that could be of interest to her audience in future episodes.  

“If you know someone who has made a breakthrough in science, technology, arts and culture, who should be recognised, then please get in touch,” she says. 

“Visit our website, social channels, email us, or see me after the show!” 

Visit www.australianhighlights.com.au, or email news@australianhighlights.com.au.

You can listen to the Australian Highlights podcast trailer here.  

About Rachel Rayner, Science Explainer

Rachel is a science communicator, poet and presenter who crafts award-winning content to resonate with diverse audiences, including one-woman quantum comedies. A self-proclaimed dork who is curious about everything, her work ranges from sustainability, renewable energy, marine biology, radio astronomy and, of course, quantum physics. She is the producer and host of Australian Highlights.