Away - Couples

Coral and Roy Baker, a couple who have recently lost their son in World War II, attempt to overcome their grief, and Coral's apparent subsequent mental illness (possibly depression) at the loss of her only child, by visiting a luxurious hotel on the Gold Coast. Whilst Coral sits alone in the ballroom during a pre-dinner dance, she talks to a couple of the other hotel patrons. While they converse, she constantly reminds both herself and others about what a lucky country Australia is, the high standard of living they enjoy and how they are fortunate to live in such a wonderful country. She also talks about how eventually, their time must come when they have to fight for their country and what they believe in, and how they should be honoured to fight for Australia, subtly trying to reassure herself that her son died protecting their country. While she speaks, she outlines the stereotypical citizen of Australia as viewed by the rest of the world; the fortunate citizen of a wealthy country, who understands and is proud of the fact that someone she loved stood up and protected their country, even though it was done unwillingly.