Ep 1. Where the Heart Is

Redfern Now is a critically acclaimed Australian television drama series that explores the contemporary Aboriginal experience. Season 2 of the series comprises six episodes, each with its own unique storyline and characters. Episode 1 of the second season is called Where the Heart Is.

Where the Heart Is focuses on the story of Lorraine (played by Deborah Mailman), a successful Aboriginal businesswoman who has built a life for herself in the city. However, she has always longed to return to her hometown of Brewarrina, where she grew up as a child. Brewarrina is a small rural town located in New South Wales, where many of Lorraine's family and childhood friends still reside.

Despite her success in the city, Lorraine feels disconnected from her roots and her inner sense of identity as an Aboriginal person. She decides to take a break from her busy life in the city and visit her family in Brewarrina. However, when she arrives, she finds that things have changed significantly since she left. The town is facing a severe drought, and many of the residents are struggling to make ends meet.

Lorraine's family is also going through a tough time. Her mother is sick, and her brother Wayne (played by Meyne Wyatt) is struggling with alcoholism. Lorraine feels torn between her desire to help her family and her responsibilities in the city. As she tries to find a way to balance these conflicting demands, she is forced to confront some difficult truths about herself and her past.

The episode is a poignant exploration of the themes of identity, belonging, and responsibility. Lorraine's dilemma is one that many Aboriginal people face: the tension between their desire to succeed in the wider society and their sense of responsibility to their community. The episode highlights the challenges of balancing these competing demands and the importance of finding a sense of belonging and connection to one's roots. It is a powerful portrayal of the complexities of contemporary Aboriginal life in Australia.

The episode is notable for its strong performances by the cast, particularly Deborah Mailman and Meyne Wyatt. Mailman, who is one of Australia's most celebrated Aboriginal actors, brings a depth and complexity to her portrayal of Lorraine. She skillfully conveys the character's sense of displacement and her struggle to reconcile her past with her present. Meyne Wyatt, who is also a rising star in the Australian film and television industry, gives a moving performance as Wayne, capturing the character's pain and vulnerability.

Where the Heart Is is a beautifully crafted and emotionally resonant episode of Redfern Now. Its themes are universal, and its message is one of hope and resilience. It is a testament to the resilience of Aboriginal people in the face of adversity and the importance of finding a sense of connection and belonging. The episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in exploring contemporary Aboriginal life and culture.