In this special episode of BRANDR, we explore the story of one of the most defining moments in Australia’s national identity, the 1983 America’s Cup victory with John Bertrand AO, skipper of Australia II and national icon.

Bertrand reflects on what that historic win meant for a country in recession, how the Boxing Kangaroo became a symbol of defiance, and why trust, honesty and curiosity remain the foundation of all high performing teams. He also discusses his later involvement with the Sydney 2000 Olympics, and what these milestone events say about Brand Australia, from its can-do attitude to its warmth and authenticity on the global stage.

Alongside reflections on design, innovation and leadership, Bertrand shares stories of legendary figures like Ben Lexcen and Bob Hawke, revealing how creativity, imagination and national pride fused into a defining cultural moment that continues to shape Australia’s identity today.

Key Themes

• Brand Australia What defines it and how it has evolved through sport, design and national moments.
• The America’s Cup Legacy How Australia II’s triumph broke a 132 year American winning streak and lifted national morale.
• Culture and Trust Why integrity, respect and fun are the cornerstones of great teams.
• Innovation and Vision Lessons from Ben Lexcen’s radical design thinking and over-the-horizon vision.
• Leadership Lessons Bertrand’s insights into curiosity and building cohesive teams.
• Olympics 2000 How Australia reshaped the Olympic brand with warmth, volunteer spirit and authenticity.
• The Boxing Kangaroo How a battle flag became a national symbol of pride and determination.
  
  

Quotable Moments

• “It’s not rocket science, it comes from honesty, no bullsh**.”
• “Without trust, you have nothing.”
• “What now exists was once imagined, that’s the power of intuition.”
• “Fail fast. Learn. Succeed.”
• “Brand Australia is about the can-do attitude, getting sh*t done.”
  
  

HOSTS | Roy Tavenor and Richard Henderson

GUEST | John Bertrand AO 

SPONSORS | Red Design Group redgp.com and R-Co r-co.com.au

PRODUCED BY | Session in Progress sessioninprogress.com.au

#Brand #BrandStrategy #BrandStorytelling #OlympicGames #Brisbane2032 #Olympics #AustralianBrand #Leadership #thisIsBRANDR #BrandrPodcast #Brandr

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