AUSTRALIA PAVILION -- Expo 86

The exterior landmark for the Australia Pavilion is a full scale replica of the 12-metre yacht Australia II, winner of the America's Cup. The pavilion can also be identified from the waterfront by huge neon graphics of red kangaroos.

Inside, the total exhibit -- a stunning audio-visual presentation -- is communications in its broadest sense. The exhibit gives visitors a series of "Australian Experiences" designed not only to entertain and inform but also to create an illusion of involvement. This is achieved by the imaginative use of multi-screen slide sound programs, large video screens, theatrical lighting and computerized sound.

The introductory program, "Communications -- An Introduction to Australia", features a replica of AUSSAT, Australia's newest communications satellite. Visitors then enter a darkened cavern. White mist floats toward them; eucalyptus perfumes the air. Images of the long-ago Aboriginal Dreamtime appear. Against the haunting sounds of chanting Aboriginal cave paintings, the oldest in the world, glow on and off.

Actor Mel Gibson appears on video to introduce the history of Australia through excerpts from feature movies.

The next presentation features aspects of Australians in action in sport and play.

The final show is devoted to "Performing Arts and the People", hosted by Dame Joan Sutherland.

Special promotions at the Australia Pavilion focus attention on world events to be staged in Australia: The America's Cup in 1987, the Australian Bicentennial celebrations in 1988 and World Expo 88 to be held in Brisbane, capital of the northern state of Queensland.

From the "Best of Expo" review guide:

You will be entertained by pictures, movies and videos which take you on a visit to Australia. As you move between the theatres, you are treated to short "Gud Day!" meetings with Australians. In the theatres, world famous Australians tell you about their country.

Highlights
--Study the cave drawings in the first hallway.
--The introductions to the Australian way of life will give you insight into Australia's culture.

Two years later, Australia was home to World Expo 88. Check out Foundation Expo 88 for a tour of Brisbane's fair.