AUSTRALIA

How does the text relate to the theme of a journey?
This text is undoubtedly about the journey of an English woman in Australia. Lady Sarah Ashley travelled from England to Australia to meet her husband Maitland Ashley in Faraway Downs Farm. However, Maitland was murdered when they reached. Sarah then decided to fulfill his husband’s wish which was to stop the monopoly of Aussie’s beef by Carney. Together with Drover, Nullah and a group of loyal employees, Sarah started her journey to drive the cattle across the desert to Darwin to supply the army.

What is the main issue in the text?
The main issue in the text is Lady Ashley’s determination to continue her husband’s wish, to stop the monopoly of Aussie beef by King Carney. Besides, it also talks about the romance between Sarah and Drover as well as the growing love of Sarah towards Nullah. Last but not least, it is the formation of a new family by Sarah, Drover and Nullah who were from different background.

What quality do you admire or dislike in a character?
Neil Fletcher’s greed for money, power and status is despicable. He betrayed Faraway Downs Farm’s owner who three generations of his family had worked for and turned to Carney. His cruelty is unforgivable. He exploited and abused Nullah’s mother. In order to gain what he wished, he killed Maitland and Carney. In the end, he even wanted to kill his own son, Nullah who had cursed him but failed.


How does the text develop your understanding of the world?
Wealth does not last long. We should appreciate everything we have and not be blinded by wealth. Apart from that, we should never discriminate anyone else. Every creature is a gift from God. We should respect them all.