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John Konrads was one of Australia’s greatest swimmers. He and his sister Ilsa were from an immigrant family and rose to the heights of sporting fame. He is about to join other sporting greats of his era like Murray Rose in taking up a scholarship at an American University. Four Corners caught up with him on the eve of his departure.
Curator’s notes
Konrads comes across as a fresh-faced young man genuinely modest about the fame that had been heaped on him and his sister Ilsa. They were seen as Australia’s premier swimming family.
Michael Charlton is the interviewer and he begins by asking John Konrads whether he prefers to swim against the clock or another swimmer. The swimmer gives a revealing answer that offers an insight into the making of a championship swimmer and reveals something of the psychology of the man himself.
This is still an excellent example of interview technique. The questions are clear, and go immediately to areas of real interest. They succeed in drawing out interesting responses from the subject, and we come away with a good feeling for the interviewee, and a better understanding of how a great athlete’s mind works.
On 26 March 1963, Michael Charlton won the Gold Logie Award as the most popular personality on Australian television. He eventually left Australia to work at the BBC, where he remained until his retirement.
