Ep 3. World Of Discovery - Australia's Outback: Vanishing Frontier

In World of Discovery season 1 episode 3, titled "Australia's Outback: Vanishing Frontier," viewers are taken on a journey to one of the most remote and fascinating regions on the planet - the Australian outback. The episode focuses on the unique and fragile ecosystem that exists in this rugged and unforgiving landscape, and the threats that it faces from human activity and climate change.

The episode begins by introducing viewers to some of the outback's most iconic inhabitants, including kangaroos, wallabies, and emus. Viewers are also introduced to some of the amazing geological formations that exist in this region, such as the towering red rock formations of Uluru and Kata Tjuta. However, the episode makes it clear that the Australian outback is so much more than stunning vistas and unique wildlife. It is a fragile ecosystem that is under threat from multiple sources.

One of the biggest threats facing the Australian outback is climate change. As temperatures continue to rise and rainfall becomes less predictable, the plants and animals that call the outback home are struggling to survive. The episodes highlights the story of a family of farmers who are trying to adapt their way of life to the changing conditions, but are finding it increasingly difficult to make ends meet. As the water becomes more scarce, they are forced to sell off cattle, and turn to alternative sources of income, such as running a tourism business from their remote farm.

The other major threat facing the outback is human activity. The episode explores the impact that mining and fracking are having on the environment, as well as the harm caused by introduced species like feral cats and foxes. Viewers are introduced to a scientist who is working to preserve the endangered bilby population by developing a fence that will keep out feral cats. They also meet a group of indigenous rangers who are working to protect the land and prevent further damage from mining and fracking.

Despite the many challenges facing the Australian outback, the episode ends on a note of hope. It showcases some of the amazing work being done by scientists, conservationists, and indigenous communities to protect this incredible landscape for future generations. From using drones to track wildlife populations, to developing new ways of farming that are more sustainable, the episode demonstrates that there is still hope for the Australian outback.

Overall, "Australia's Outback: Vanishing Frontier" is a fascinating and informative episode of World of Discovery. It provides a detailed look at one of the most unique and fragile ecosystems on the planet, and the many challenges that it is facing. However, it also showcases the resilience of the people and wildlife that call the outback home, and the innovative solutions that are being developed to protect this extraordinary landscape for generations to come.