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Clip description
With the death of old Mrs Medlow (Eileen McEwan), Kate (Basia A’Hern) and her two brothers Mark (Shaun Loseby) and Chris (Henry Nixon) are now on their own at Wallaby Wildlife park. Kate tells Mark that Mrs Medlow has left the property to some English relatives.
Curator’s notes
The clip introduces the wildlife park setting with the wallpaper of exotic Australian animals and their intrinsic appeal for the required overseas market. We also meet the main Australian characters, including older brother Chris and the animal handler Vinnie, delightfully played by Anh Do. It sets up the potential conflict between the Australians and the unknown English relatives.
By speaking directly to the camera, both Kate and Mark establish themselves as lead characters, each creating a strong connection with the viewer and drawing them into their story.
The series’ use of special effects, such as the occasional talking bird, the daydream lighting for Mark’s soccer goal and dramatic use of enhanced sound effects, such as heartbeats and 'swoosh’ effects, are all evident in this clip.
The deathbed scene of Mrs Medlow is a bit of a surprise in a children’s series, but is handled well, and the use of silence except for the clock ticking is very atmospheric.
