Once Upon a Time in Punchbowl

Once Upon a Time in Punchbowl

Tells the inside story of the challenges the Lebanese Australian community has faced in Australia and how they have fought to overcome them. This landmark documentary series hears from community leaders, police, families and individuals, as they combine to tell the compelling and dramatic story of a proud and resilient community, under intense pressure and scrutiny. The story begins in the 1970s when large numbers of Lebanese migrants flooded into Australia. Many were Muslim, most were traumatised by civil war, all were desperate to build a better future. Over the coming decades, these new Australians struggled to establish a new life in their adopted country.

Created By

Status

Returning Series

Original Name

Once Upon a Time in Punchbowl

First Air Date

June 19, 2014

Last Air Date

July 10, 2014

Seasons

1

Episodes

4

Language

English

Production Companies

Networks

SBS

2005-2012
S01E04

2005-2012

After the Cronulla Beach riots in December 2005, lots of Lebanese Australians were left outraged at what they perceive as an attack by wider Australia on their Australian identity, their culture and religion. After rumours spread of reprisals against the Lakemba Mosque thousands met up to protect the building.

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