Images of the beach pervade Australian popular culture. But the deeper significance of the experience of the beach, and its influence on Australian culture generally, has not yet been seriously explored. How, why and when did the beach become part of the Australian way of life? This work describes the forces and pressures that encouraged or impeded Australian's enjoyment of sand and surf. The ways in which artists, writers, film-makers and the advertising industry have depicted the beach are examined for the light they throw on the beach's significance. The arguments should stimulate debate...