Earthbeat — The latest news, views and issues on the environment. ABC Radio National, every Saturday, 9.05am.
The Dead Brother — The wonderful Max Gillies features in this radio play by Kevin Nemeth. Frank and Jane, married for 30 years, discuss the eulogy Frank is about to deliver at his brother Bill's funeral. It becomes clear that Bill will not be missed. Neither of them liked him; for that matter, neither likes anyone much in their families and they don't like each other. A timely reality check on the institution of the family. ABC Radio National, Wednesday, February 1, 9.30pm.
Wangaratta Jazz Festival — Jim McCloud's Jazztrack presents the first of two specials featuring the highlights of the four-day festival last October. Performers include Steve Lacy (US), the Swedish Jazz Kings and the Catholics (Australia). ABC Classic FM, Saturday, February 4, 5pm (Part 2 Saturday, February 11, 5pm).
Let the People Speak — The Maleny Folk Festival is one of Australia's most democratic events. In the Sunshine Coast hinterland of Queensland, all sorts of artistic, cultural and political groups sing and tell their stories. ABC Radio National, Sunday, February 5, 7.10am (Repeated Wednesday, February 8, 7.10pm).
Indonesia: From Kroncong to Dangdut — Something for the early risers! This Open Learning program looks at Indonesia's rich musical heritage and the profound changes that have taken place over the last century. Commercialisation by radio, TV and the film industry have had a deep impact. These changes are charted by looking at the evolution of two music styles: Kroncong and Dangdut. ABC Radio National, Tuesday, February 7, 5.10am.
Australia-Asia Relations 1945-65 — Another Open Learning program that may prove interesting. Australia's relations with Asia in this period were marked by a pro-Western, anti-Asian stance. Menzies refused to recognise China, committed troops to Korea and Vietnam, and threatened Indonesia. The 20-year cultural divide was exemplified by the White Australia Policy. ABC Radio National, Tuesday, February 7, 11.05am.