Fierce Girls

Inspiring stories of Fierce Girls, including a polar explorer, jockey, marathon runner, and robotics pioneer. Five stories released on July 10 and five more on International Day of The Girl.

Faith Thomas, the first indigenous person to play cricket for Australia, shares her inspiring journey from throwing rocks at galahs to representing the country in cricket. She made history as the first Aboriginal person to play on any Australian team. However, cricket was just a game to Faith, so she eventually left it behind to become a nurse and save lives. This podcast explores her remarkable achievements and her courage to challenge stereotypes.

Yukultji Napangati, a girl who grew up with no contact with the outside world, learned how to live on Country. She was a great hunter and discovered her talent for painting when she joined a new community. Her unique stroke made her work shimmer and now her paintings hang on the walls of famous people.

Queenie McKenzie, an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander woman, grew up on a cattle station, defying authorities. She later became an artist, using her paintings to preserve the stories of her Country. The podcast explores McKenzie's life, including her resourcefulness, saving a man's life, and advocating for education. It also highlights her artistic journey, where she became the first woman in her community to paint, gaining recognition as a cultural leader.

Oodgeroo Noonuccal, a famous poet and advocate for Indigenous rights, used her pen to fight for Australia's First Nations people. She demanded the Prime Minister do more for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and taught her culture to children. This episode explores her fight for education, activism, and recognition.

Mary Ann Bugg, an Aboriginal woman, becomes a savvy bushranger, riding ahead to check for police and using her bush skills to gather food. She fools troopers with her education and beauty, playing a pivotal role in protecting Captain Thunderbolts.

Molly Kelly, a girl with mixed heritage, was taken from her family and sent to a settlement to suppress her Aboriginality. Determined to return home, Molly escaped and traveled 1000 miles, guided by a rabbit-proof fence. Along the way, she faced challenges, lost her sister, but also encountered kind strangers. This inspiring story is narrated by twelve-year-old Ruby Macheda.

Daisy Bindi, a girl who fought for fairer pay and better working conditions for Aboriginal workers, leads a three-year strike to win those rights. The podcast highlights the oppressive conditions endured by Aboriginal slaves, Daisy's courageous stand, and her efforts to establish a new Aboriginal community and provide education for children.

A special series of Fierce Girls celebrates First Nations women who Get Up, Stand Up, and Show Up during NAIDOC Week. Learn about the achievements of Daisy Bindi and Queenie Mackenzie, who fought for equal rights and cultural preservation. Discover the extraordinary stories of Molly Kelly, Mary Ann Bug, and Yakuchi Nappangari, remarkable Australian women who made significant contributions to their communities.

'Mum Shirl' tells the inspiring story of Coleen Shirley Perry, a prominent Wiradjuri woman who became a fearless advocate for the marginalized. Despite facing discrimination and never attending school, she dedicated her life to helping prisoners, the homeless, and Indigenous Australians. Mum Shirl's selflessness and acts of kindness made her a beloved figure in her community, and her legacy continues to inspire others to support those in need.