Australian Story: Oct 24

Former Seekers members and Beverley Sheehan, the sister of Judith Durham, remember the singing legend in Monday’s episode of Australian Story.

In the 1960s Australian band The Seekers took the world by storm when their first three releases went to the top of the UK charts, knocking the Beatles out of the number one spot along the way.

Lead singer Judith Durham was the heartbeat of their unique sound, a blend of harmonising voices that saw them become the first Australian band to score a number one hit in the USA with the iconic “Georgy Girl”.

There were moments of drama along the way, not least when Judith Durham announced she was leaving at the height of their fame.

In 2019, all four band members – Judith Durham, Athol Guy, Bruce Woodley and Keith Potger – spoke for the first time to Australian Story about the impact of their sudden fame, the painful fallout from their parting and how they ultimately reconnected.

Now, following Judith’s death this year from a chronic lung condition, her bandmates and sister speak about her musical legacy, her personal resilience, and their sense of loss.

“Of course, it comes as an awful slamming of the door when you get the news, but for me she hasn’t left,” says The Seekers’ Athol Guy.

On the eve of the band’s 60th anniversary he is sure Judith will be by their side.

“Even though she’s not with us, she’s still here and she’ll certainly be here when we celebrate.”

Producer: Jennifer Feller

8pm Monday on ABC.