For many in the UK, the iconic image of life Down Under is a cluster of familiar cities and busy suburban life. But almost half of the world’s largest island continent is given over to a vast, ancient expanse where nature runs wild, the scenery is dazzling, history teems with incredible stories, and where its proudly independent people live by their own rules, enjoying a lifestyle that is rich in everyday pleasures and the envy of the world: This is Western Australia.

Enter UK national treasure, Bill Bailey, comedian and TV presenter, best known for comedy series Black Books and comedy quiz QI.

He sets out to discover what makes Western Australia… so Western Australia! Over four fun and fascinating episodes, Bill embarks on a 21,000km trek along this vast coastline and inland, seeking to quench his own insatiable thirst for exploration and knowledge by meeting the people, experiencing its renowned lifestyle, discovering its natural wonders and uncovering the secrets of this amazing and undiscovered world.

The series has been broadcast both on Channel 4 in the UK and on ABC here in Australia. 

In episode one, Bill starts with a bang, kicking off his journey near the pink lakes of Esperance. Along the way, he explores iconic landmarks, including a visit to Esperance Stonehenge, an exact size replica of Stonehenge in England, which was featured in the August 2023 edition of this magazine.

Tracey Gillard, who owns Esperance Stonehenge with her English husband Oliver, shared with Anglo&Celtic the exciting news about the visit. 

“The secrets out! We had the pleasure of the legend himself @billbaileyofficial, visit us at Esperance Stonehenge, whilst filming his new show, Wild West Australia,” said Tracey.

You can watch the series here: https://iview.abc.net.au/show/bill-bailey-s-wild-west-australia

*This story was first published in the January 2024 edition of Anglo&Celtic magazine.

Picture: Comedian and TV presenter Bill Bailey has been discovering Western Australia, including Esperance Stonehenge. Picture: Channel 4