Why do we have such a profound attachment to the bush? Perhaps it is because the harsh, mysterious and utterly foreign outback provided the unforgiving crucible that created distinctly Australian character traits in the early pastoralists, drovers and shearers: qualities of resilience, bluntness and pragmatism. We are a country moulded by the efforts of those hardy souls who tamed the land. The political and economical life of our young country relied on wool and wool came from the bush. But despite the fact that Australia has long since ceased to ride on the sheep's back, many of us proudly regard the bush as our heritage and wellspring. THE BUSH celebrates our fascination with all things rural, including commentary from three reporters who are passionate about the land, and photo essays featuring wonderful images from the Fairfax archive. As Malcolm Turnbull states in his foreword, "The bush and those who live in it are at the very heart of Australia." THE BUSH speaks to all Australians about our profound attachment to life beyond the city fringe, and pays tribute to the energy and spirit of country people.