When an American submarine arrives at Williamstown, the American commander is invited to stay with an Australian naval officer and his family. They take him to a beach in Port Phillip Bay where they spend their time swimming, sailing and sunbaking. The following day the Australians ask the American if he would like to go to the beach again. The American says that as it is a Sunday he would prefer to go to church.
It is a telling moment of cultural difference.
As the end approaches, the American turns to God, the Australians turn to the sea.
- Fiona Capp / The Age (in reference to On The Beach)
