The ABC TV Series The Rise and Rise of Australian Rugby examines the resurgence of Australian Rugby from the Woeful Wallabies in the 1970s to world champions in 1991. Australian Rugbys development during this time was measured against the best of them all - the mighty All Blacks. As South Africa faded out of the international scene in the early 1980s, Australia came to take its place as New Zealands major opponent.

By 1982, after four Australian victories in the past five Tests, the All Blacks were obliged to take the Wallabies seriously. Presented by Peter FitzSimons,this programme is packed with fierce battles and memorable moments, as well as never before seen on television footage and behind-the-scenes tales including present day interviews with Alan Jones, Mark Ella, Bob Dwyer, Michael Lynagh, Nick Farr-Jones, Andrew Slack, Tony Shaw, Mark Loane, Andy Haden, Hika Reid, Stu Wilson, Grant Fox, Mark Shaw and many more.