My name is Alan Bond.
You may have heard of me.
In the 1980's I was one of the most famous people on the planet
I own three private jets,
four yachts bigger than your house,
a castle in England
and houses all round the world.
I work hard.
Since I was young I learned
to grab whatever opportunities I could.
Don't worry about that bit.
I now own TV stations,
gold mines,
a fleet of blimps,
I even send satellites into space.
And if you're drinking a beer while watching this,
there's a pretty good chance I brewed it.
World leaders look to me for guidance.
I made friends easily.
But I always came home to the love of a good woman.
Two good women.
And did I mention I also achieved the impossible,
the biggest sporting victory this country has ever seen.
-People trusted me.
My business life was smooth sailing.
I'm going to crucify that curse.
And I led an uncomplicated family life.
You can start by throwing that curse out!
People often ask me,
Alan, what's the secret to your success?
How did you go from high-school drop out
to becoming Australia's richest man?
- Alan. - It's simple.
Never take no for an answer.
Excuse me, Miss. Excuse me.
Hi. Um,
My name's Alan and ah...
I'd like to take you out some time if you...
give me your phone number?
Here's a pencil.
Thank you very much.
"GET LOST"
-That's how it's done boys.
And if you find a better deal,
- take it. - "Parnell Signs"
Good day mate, how are you?
Listen, I don't know what he's charging you for this job but...
I guarantee you I could do it for half the price
if you give me a chance?
- What's up boss? - You been stealing my customers.
You cheeky little curse.
You're fired. And so are you!
- What did I do? - Going along with him!
Al, go and apologize!
I'm not groveling to anyone.
- Alan? - Nah, later. I've got a date.
Can I drive you home tonight?
We only just met.
So. Is that a yes?
I heard you were a bit fresh but,
you're a cheeky little curse.
Eileen Hughes.
The best thing that ever happened to me.
Stick with me, Eileen.
I'm going to be a millionaire.
We'll be rich.
I don't care about money.
I'll give you everything you want.
I want to have a family.
A big one.
- Really? - Mm-mm.
Why don't you ah,
-show me those steps again?
- You want to marry my daughter? - Yes, sir.
Doozer, uh Mr. Hughes.
But you don't have a job.
That's because I'm starting my own business.
NU-Signs, spelled N. U.
Alan's going to be a millionaire.
And your parents? They're Protestant you say?
Yes.
But don't hold that against them they're really nice people.
And my mother's an angel, everyone says so.
She already adores Eileen, doesn't she?
Do you think this lad will make you happy?
I do.
I now pronounce you husband and wife.
We made the perfect couple.
Mum and Eileen got on like a house on fire.
Mum couldn't have been happier.
He'll regret this.
She's a nice girl.
Becoming a Catholic.
- Ma. - Congratulations Dear.
-Mum.
He's got a good set of lungs on him.
Oh yeah.
Oh there is my beautiful, beautiful boy.
He's got Allan's nose.
I love you.
I was not a millionaire. Not yet.
- Anyone can dream big,
but to pull it off you have to start taking risks.
Going once, going twice,
-Sold,
to Mr. Alan Bond.
I didn't know you were bidding?
Do you have the requisite bank check Mr. Bond?
It's on its way.
Let me get this correct.
You bought a block of land without the money to pay for it?
It's not how things are done.
Right now you are branch manager?
But in the future,
you could be state manager.
Now imagine getting in on the ground floor,
with somebody who is going to change
the face of business in Perth?
Imagine how much money that will make you.
What's it going to be?
Well good morning ladies and gentlemen.
Firstly I'd like to thank you for coming out
today for the sale of Lesmurdie Heights.
If you want a block you will have to act fast.
This is a limited release.
A once in a lifetime opportunity.
I'm going to give you five minutes to think about it.
Everyone will get the same time. We can't be fairer than that.
- Can we Dave? - Seems fair to me.
Alright here we go. Counting down.
Starting the clock...
now!
Look at them.
Normal, regular people.
All of them afraid of taking a chance.
All they needed was a little push.
Three minutes to go ladies and gentlemen.
This is a once in a lifetime opportunity. You, Sir,
are you going to be one of the lucky ones here today?
What about council approval?
All but rubber-stamped my friend.
60 seconds to go folks.
Sir, are you going to be a winner or a loser today?
-Do you take cash?
-Yes we take cash.
Yes indeed. Come on up sir.
Ladies and gentlemen there is a smart man.
He has secured his future ladies and gentlemen.
Ten percent deposit today.
This is your only opportunity
to make your dreams come true today.
Don't be shy.
Also, you can choose whichever lot is more favorable to you.
Act now please.
That's the way. This today is not going to happen tomorrow.
We need to sell it all today.
You will not be disappointed.
This is your chance to make your dreams come true
right here today.
- What's your name sir? - Start your future right
here at Lesmurdie Heights.
We did it.
This is all above board, isn't it?
Of course.
Where's Bondy?
- Where's Bondy? - Alan's not here.
He's on another job.
I haven't been paid for 12 months
and I am not going anywhere until I do.
- You got it? - Alright! Calm down mate.
-Why did you pay him?
- Because we owed him. - So?
Creditors are cheap money!
They don't charge interest, the banks do!
We could've stretched it out another six months!
Look, I thought it was better to just pay him and get it--
I don't pay you to think Dave! I pay you to do what I say!
I can't keep doing this. I can't keep ducking and weaving.
Al you've got to change the way you do business.
Or what, Dave? What will you do?
- I'll leave. - Curse off then!
- I'm not joking, Al. - Does it look like I am!
You still owe me my share of the land deal.
Mum's asked me to make a trifle on Sunday.
I'm thinking tinned peaches. What do you think?
Alan?
- Mm? - Dave's let me down.
He was supposed to pay someone and he didn't do it so I...
I had to let him go.
Let him go?
- Dave's a part of the business. - Not any more.
Alan, it's Dave!
He'd do anything for you.
That's it, I'm getting him on the phone.
No. He's gone.
And that's that.
I have got to go out. I've got business to do.
- You only just got home. - Yeah I need to make more money.
We need a bigger house.
- Mm. - See ya.
Daddy's going to get us a bigger house.
It most certainly is not, it's an American car.
It's a convertible.
It hasn't got a top.
You girls should get into property development.
That's where I made all my money.
I just started a new company building apartments.
I think you should come and have a look at one of them.
Looking over the Swan River.
It's expansive, breathtaking views.
- Wow. - Big bedrooms too.
I mean the beds, you could fit three, four people in them.
-Interested?
Eileen and I made a good team.
She brought up the family.
I brought home the bacon.
I gave Eileen everything she ever wanted.
She couldn't have been happier.
By the late 60's I was building
shopping centers and apartment blocks.
I bought farmland and subdivided.
I son made my first million.
Then my second.
Every time the doubters thought I'd go bust,
I'd just borrow more.
It's what the average punter doesn't know,
debt equals wealth
and with wealth comes influence.
Ah there she is. King of the kids.
I'm sorry I'm late darling.
Meeting went longer than expected.
- Morning, Dad. - Morning, Alan.
You're early.
How are the children?
Eileen's got her hands full.
- She certainly pops them out. - Mother.
I never wanted you to marry a Catholic,
but now that you have you need to get your house in order.
- Meaning what? - I'm hearing rumors.
Ah.
Don't mind me, I'll just...
these look very nice.
Um...
I'll leave you to it.
I know what you're like, Alan.
You need to be careful.
- Meaning what? - Unplanned errors.
Plenty of men are left high and dry paying for their...
mistakes.
Between the ex-wives and child support
they end up with nothing.
There's no comfort being old and poor.
You're not old and poor.
I'm not talking about me.
I worked hard. I bought this land. I built this house.
I can assure you Mother,
that will never happen.
Spend time, with your family.
Appearances count.
Higher, higher.
Sold. 360,000 pounds to you Mr. Bond.
Please be aware, ladies and gentlemen,
this sale is not complete
until Mr. Bond can procure a bank check for ten percent.
You know I'm good for it.
You have one hour.
Let me guess, this is more for me...
than for you?
What you gotta realize is,
you don't need money.
Money needs you.
The trick is to ask for a lot.
You ask for a small amount,
banks'll give you a hard time, make you fill out lots of forms.
You ask for a couple of hundred thousand,
and it's like, yeah, sure take it.
I mean while you're at it, take the whole vault.
I'm a money-cursing genius.
You're kissing a woman in public.
-Ah Christ, it was nothing.
How do you think it makes me feel?
I don't know, happy that we got bloody money.
- I want it to stop, or else. - Or else what?
Oh you want me to say it, fine.
I'll leave you and I'll take the kids.
- You leave me... - Then where will you be?
You leave me, you'll be on your own.
You'll be a social outcast.
I've got friends.
Yeah you do, married ones.
You think they're going to want you hanging around?
They'll be scared you're going to run off with their husbands!
And they won't talk to you either cause
they'll want to keep doing business with me.
God, look at you.
You think anybody else is going to want to date you
with three kids hanging off you?
Even if you do get a date,
it'll be with some loser that wants my money!
Oh you curse-head!
- What is it you want from me? - I want my husband.
I want us to be a proper family.
For curse sake, I give you everything!
Let me see.
Really,
-you can't leave me, Eileen.
I need you.
Okay, I'm no good without you.
Together we make sense.
For the kids, for the business.
- For business? - For us.
-For us.
I never want to be humiliated like that ever again.
I promise it won't happen again.
Business was booming
and Perth was ripe for the picking.
So I created a bigger company,
Bond Corporation.
-Like the name?
Of course none of the real work was done in the office.
We'd start by loosening clients up with a bit of class
and sophistication.
Ah, there he is.
-Ah, Bert.
I'm sorry Alan but I can't approve a subdivision that size.
The land would have to be rezoned.
Ah well,
you can make that happen, can’t you?
You know I have been told you’re the man.
Well I can do things, yeah.
That’s your lovely wife, isn’t it?
- Yes, Faye. - Faye.
It's just the best for shopping.
The clothes, the shoes, I was telling Alan.
You just can’t get them here.
Oh yeah. Hey, you two should go together.
Eileen knows all the best places.
Yes, that's such a good idea. We'll have a blast.
- Ah put it there.
- To shopping. - To shopping.
Then when Eileen was away shopping,
we'd throw the real party.
Seal the deal.
You curse! I'm getting a divorce!
Love, wait!
Don’t be like that.
How do you get away with it?
Where’s your wife?
Anyone who has a creative bone in their body
needs a nuts and bolts man by their side.
Mine was Peter Beckwith.
Interesting fact,
No one in Australia has ever gone broke owning a brewery.
It’s liquid gold.
We get our hands on one of those,
we’ll be recession-proof.
Breweries don’t come cheap,
and we can’t just keep borrowing.
What if the market changes?
I’m happy to do a cost analysis.
Find which one has a larger market share.
Thank you Peter. I knew you’d see it my way.
Well we’ll have to offload a few things.
No, we’re not selling anything.
Why are there three desserts?
Ah, excuse me miss?
Yes, sir? Is everything to your satisfaction?
I’m afraid not.
Oh, I’m sorry. How can I help?
Diana Bliss.
From the moment I saw her I knew I was in trouble.
Well you can join us for dessert.
The creme brule is the chef’s specialty.
I’m sorry sir, but I can’t accept.
Why not?
It wouldn’t be fair to the other diners.
Listen you go and start looking at brewery options.
How about a nightcap?
The diners can’t complain about that.
I’m sorry but I really can’t.
I fly out first thing in the morning.
- This is my second job. - Huh.
I’m an air-hostess.
Plus
I don’t date married men.
Ah well, that’s just for show mostly.
It's uh, we’re not really together any more.
You do know who I am?
Should I?
Well, I’m kind of a big deal in this town,
you know,
and very,
very rich.
Well I’m sure your wife must be very, very happy.
Ever since I was a kid I dreamed of being a sailor.
Well actually, that's not completely true.
So here she is.
What? Here's what?
I don't want a boat. I want to get paid.
Yeah sure, sure,
this boat is worth more than what I owe you.
You're getting a bargain.
Is this the biggest boat here?
It's the best.
and it's got the number one mooring.
Automatic entry into the Royal Perth Yacht Club.
Anyone who is anyone in this town is a member of the R.P.Y.C.
You'll be alright mate.
You'll be good. You'll be good.
Next we have Mr. Alan Bond.
First time I met him he was gruff, boorish, and loud.
Second time I met him he was worse.
But Bond Corporation has assets worth millions.
Hm and debts to match.
What we have to ask ourselves is this,
is Mr. Bond suitable for our club?
Will he maintain the traditions and
standards we've come to expect of our members?
Now, are we ready to vote?
They've refused me!
I've got R. 1, royal number one, on my sail
and they won't let me in.
- Can they even do that? - I'm gonna sue them!
No. You've got the biggest boat haven't you?
- What do you mean? - Better rub their faces in it.
-Yeah!
Let's show the curses!
Here you go, Captain.
Sweet tea.
Best thing for seasickness.
There he is.
Hello, Alan!
-Keep practicing there boy.
You'll get there.
Who was that?
Bloody commodore of the Royal Perth Yacht Club.
Those petty childish curses.
They thought they were big?
They didn't know what big was.
And here comes Apollo,
on its maiden Sydney to Hobart.
The crew can hold their head high especially
West Australian skipper...
Alan Bond.
Frank?
- Frank? - Yes?
I thought you'd like to know, Alan's doing quite well.
Oh, goodo.
- And there it is.
Apollo is second for line honors.
Frank?
Frank come inside.
-Frank?
Frank!
-Frank! Frank!
No! Frank!
Frank. Frank.
About the only significant thing he did,
bringing us to Australia.
He came out here to create a better life for us all.
He sacrificed a lot.
I don't think you ever really appreciated that.
Well he never appreciated anything I did.
It was a lovely service.
Have you given any thought to what you'll do now?
- Do? - Where you might live?
I've been thinking,
we have a big home.
If you don't want to be rattling around here on your own,
we'd be happy if you moved in with Alan and I, wouldn't we?
We have a private guest room with its own bathroom.
I'm perfectly happy to...
"rattle around" on my own thank you dear.
He wasn't very old.
You're not like him,
you're more like me.
And I have no intention of dying any time soon.
What death teaches you about life,
is never leave anything to chance.
- Miss Bliss? - Just over there.
Miss Bliss.
You can just throw those in the bin Martina, thank you so much.
If you push hard enough,
the right people will hear you.
News of my yachting achievements had reached halls of real power.
I got summoned by Sir Frank Packer.
He was a legendary hard man.
You're looking well, Sir Frank.
Bloody liar.
Is there something I can help you with?
- Help me? - Hm.
No, no...
I want to help you.
I want you to take it up to the Yanks.
Win the America's Cup.
I should've won,
but the New York Yacht Club curses cheated me out of it.
I don't have it in me to do it again.
- Why me? - Because it takes money.
Lots of it.
And balls.
Big ones.
I've watched your rise over the years.
You're like a mongrel dog who won't be put down.
I guess that's a compliment.
But I thought the America's Cup was a gentleman's sport.
You should know by now, Alan.
The richer the prize, the more scoundrels in the race.
Do you want a seat at the table son?
One you've never been invited to before?
Whoever wins the America's Cup,
can write their own future.
Taking on the Yanks wasn’t gonna come cheap.
I needed a way to get my hands on a couple of million.
And I needed it fast.
Now the shorter guy, he’s the one from Yokohama.
Now his boss is the one from Tokyo had dinner with last year.
- Remember he brought his wife. - Peter,
You're being a nervous Nellie.
It’s all under control.
We've got a lot riding on this Alan.
They’re gonna love it.
The Cote d’Azur of Western Australia
The Mediterranean Down Under.
Here?
At Yanchep?
Doll, it’s a two hour drive from anywhere.
"Sun City home of Australia's America's Cup challenge 1974"
When I win the America’s Cup,
in Newport, Rhode Island,
we will defend it here at Yanchep, Western Australia.
What if you don’t win?
I will win.
And the eyes of the world will be upon us.
We need to be ready for them.
500 million people will see us training,
they will see the clean beaches,
the lack of pollution and they will want to come and live here,
in the best place on earth.
A super-fast hovercraft and ferry service
going from Yanchep, Sun City.
You could be in Perth in just over an hour.
A racetrack that will rival Royal Ascot.
A Grand Prix Circuit better than anything Monaco has to offer.
And a new Disneyland.
The place to spend your family holiday.
And of course a major residential development.
With investments from Bond Corp
and the government,
Yanchep, Sun City
will hold a place of national pride
and be a racing mecca for the world.
Is it fair to say Mr. Bond
that this challenge isn't purely about sport?
Anyone who considers that racing for the America’s Cup
isn’t a business proposition is a bloody fool.
Ha, here they are.
-Right on time.
Come on over and have a look.
- Nice touch. - Yeah.
We’ve extended Alan a lot of credit on this dream of his.
His debt is mounting.
Which will soon be repaid.
All 250 million dollars of it?
If we don’t win the America’s Cup we’re screwed.
Don’t you underestimate Alan.
He’s always got a plan.
We arrived in Newport with the fastest boat
and the best team.
I told the yanks,
stuff the racing, you might as well give us the cup now.
The American boat Courageous was just too good
to win by 4 minutes, 54 seconds.
Race 2.
1 minute and 11 seconds ahead.
With America’s Courageous the victor.
Race 3.
Another great win by the Americans
who finish 5 minutes, 27 seconds in front.
The Americans win by 7 minutes 18 seconds.
It’s all over.
Alan Bond’s Cup Challenge is over.
Come on love.
In the real world,
there’s no prize for second place
and I hated coming second.
We could always move in with your mother.
-Okay,
-now you’re taking the curse.
Ah, the kids.
What kids?
We don’t have any, do we?
The thing is, Alan,
Bond Corp’s debt level is unsustainable.
100 million this month!
You’ve got a bunch of over-inflated assets
not worth anywhere near that.
Now you tell us why we shouldn’t pull the plug,
right now.
Convince us.
-You’re right.
We’re in the toilet.
We are totally up to our necks in it.
But who better to get us out of it than me?
Who is going to get the best price for these dud assets
You lot? Come on.
I am the only one who can save this situation.
You pull the plug now
and you’ll be lumbered with the debt
and no means to get your money back.
You’ll lose it all.
Gone.
And when you do,
your customers won’t think you’re such a safe bet.
They might decide to take their money elsewhere.
But by all means
-here, you take control.
- Stop!
The Japanese were already on the hook for half on Yanchep.
I just had to convince them to buy me out.
My strategy was simple.
No, no, no,
I want to buy your share of the deal.
All right, the government is getting behind this
and Bond Corp plans to spend millions more on infrastructure.
What do you say?
Are you going to sell me your share of the deal?
Only one of us can own it all.
Wait a minute.
What would it take for you...
to sell it to us?
Thanks to our marvelous Chairman,
Yanchep is now off our books.
With the Santos Oil and gas deal now complete,
we’re in really good shape.
We’re continuing our building projects
and mining interests,
but this is the time to expand into new areas.
Media, retail,
new manufacturing companies.
All cash rich areas
that will ensure Bond Corp
pushes strongly into the 1980’s
with a diverse and profitable slate.
You again, Mr. Bond.
So you do remember me.
I found out, but...
I still don’t date married men.
Even if they are very, very rich.
- Have supper with me? - I can’t accept those,
and I’m not hungry.
Well at least let me walk you to your car?
And you Mr. Bond?
You’re a businessman who likes sailing?
Well you’ve heard of the America’s Cup.
I’m going to win it.
Nobody’s taken it from the Yanks in a hundred years
and I’m going to be the one to do it.
- It means a lot to you? - Yeah.
Well,
it’s a chance to write your name in the history books.
Being the first to do something like um,
like Armstrong on the moon
or Sir Edmund climbing Everest.
It’s a chance to be remembered forever.
-Well this is my car.
Are you sure I can’t convince you to have supper with me?
I'm from a country town
and if a married man was seen having supper with
a woman other than his wife, then everyone would know it.
But we’re not in a country town.
Yes, we are.
Why me?
You’re a wealthy man,
you could no doubt have your pick of women,
so why me?
Because I noticed you right away.
The way you crossed the room, you uh...
you glide,
while others merely walk.
Goodnight. I can’t, I’m sorry.
-Thank you very much
How did you know where I lived?
I’m a multi-millionaire.
I can find these things out.
You talk about your money a lot.
I suppose I do.
Listen, I didn’t come here to ask you out I came here to...
offer you a job.
With flowers?
These are for my mother.
-Okay.
You’re an air-hostess, right?
Travel back and forth to Sydney?
How would you like to fly back and forth to London?
I need a chief stewardess...
on my private jet.
And you thought of me?
I like the way you hold yourself.
You have grace.
-I glide.
You glide.
I travel with many business people and want them to feel...
the way that I do when I’m around you.
And how is that?
Relaxed.
At ease...
and I promise I won’t try and kiss you again.
That was clumsy. I’m an oaf.
I admit it.
This is a genuine offer.
Here we go. Here we go,
"The Taurus man will never romantically sweep off your feet
but will bring you the architect’s plans
for the house he’s going to build you."
Sounds like you.
Ah thanks, Pet.
I’ve got a couple of theater tickets
to the West End for tomorrow night.
A new Neil Simon play.
You?
Theater?
Thought you might like it.
Something different.
Far too busy.
I've got lunch with Sophie then 20 for dinner at the Ritz.
Ha...
theater.
Here she is, meet Diana Bliss everyone.
Isn’t she gorgeous?
Now this is David the director
and Julie who played "Hannah"
and Marcus who played "William" and Andrew, and Phillipa and...
Oh hello. Yes you were wonderful.
Champagne. More champagne.
So if you could do anything
what would you do?
Something in the theater probably.
-You want to be an actor?
No I’d be petrified.
Maybe I could um be a producer.
I could put the plays on.
Then that’s what you’ll do.
- Just like that? - Why not?
I’d also like to be married
and have children.
Me too.
You already have children.
With you.
I um...
I've never felt the way I do when I am with you.
You make me happy.
Anyway um...
goodnight.
We should do this in private.
Hey.
What happens now?
Anything we want.
What are you doing?
Alan are you out of your mind?
I am not doing anything. I am just going to the toilet.
Absolutely not.
I am going. I am going.
Unusual name, Bliss.
Yes, I’ve had my fair share of ribbing over the years.
My father even more so.
Minister Bliss, can you imagine.
He’s a Methodist.
Yes, so Miss Bliss said.
Diana wants to be a Theater Producer.
I’m sure Miss Bliss can speak for herself.
Do you like the theater, Mrs. Bond?
Please,
call me Kathleen.
I don’t get out very often,
especially since my husband passed.
Well perhaps we could go together.
Shall I arrange some tickets?
I’d like that very much.
Thank you, Dear.
Here we go.
Now I will give you the full tour in time but
for now this is the formal dining room.
Not that we ever do anything really formal.
And this is the living area.
Eileen did all the interior design.
Mm she certainly likes her bright colors.
I don’t know why you need such a big house?
Who are you expecting? The Queen?
-You never know, Mother.
Hi Grandma!
Have you been out dressed like that?
It’s the fashion.
Maybe at the mall.
That’s what they are all wearing now, Mrs. Bond.
I think you would benefit from some cultural pursuits.
Would you like to come to the theater with me?
Um, sure,
why not?
Just the two of us?
And my friend, Diana Bliss.
Lovely woman.
You took her to meet your mother?
Oh bloody hell, Alan.
She was in the car.
I was dropping her home after our flight Mother invited her in
There’s nothing going on.
You are so full of it. Do you think I’m an idiot?
She’s the air-hostess.
On our jet.
You flaunt her in front of me and then act like it’s nothing.
What are you doing?
You’ve never taken your tarts to meet your mother before.
Don’t call her that.
Ah, you don’t like me calling your tart a tart?
That’s right. She’s a nice woman.
She is well brought up, respectful.
Respectfully cursing my husband.
I told you, she’s not like that.
Oh well if she’s so wonderful what're you doing married to me?
If you want me, I’ll be in another continent.
You can’t afford a divorce right now.
It’d send you broke.
There must be something I can sell off.
Everything is tied up in trusts and subsidiary companies.
Plus, Alan,
equity is collateralized against loans in Bond Corp and Dallhold.
She’s not getting rich while I go under.
She had nothing before she met me,
nothing!
If we weren’t mounting another Cup campaign
and expanding into beer then...
-look,
there’s lot of cash right there could be freed up to pay Eileen.
It’s not an option.
We’re going ahead with both.
Then perhaps you should think about making it up with her.
-Phone call for you, Mrs. Bond.
Hello.
Oh, Susanne darling you are going to have to slow down
because I am in full relaxation mode.
No I am not coming back.
Did that curse put you up to this?
I don’t care how important it is,
I’m not doing it.
You tell your father, are you listening?
You tell your father he can go and stick it up his...
Eileen's not picking me up. She's ah...
overseas doing a bit of shopping I’d imagine. You know how it is.
I’ll probably just see the credit card bill.
Alan Bond?
Do you know who I am?
That’s right,
I’m Roger Climpson
and "This is Your Life".
Really? Are you serious?
From humble beginnings,
Alan Bond became one of Australia’s richest men
and is hoping to sail into the history books.
I’m surprised you could tear yourself away from your holiday.
Thanks, Love.
I didn’t want to.
The TV bigwigs think a happy family'll help the Cup Challenge
What are you implying?
I’m not implying anything.
It’s a fact this network is a major sponsor
for the America’s Cup.
That’s not why my son's being honored.
He deserves every accolade.
Unlike some, he’s worked very hard for everything he has.
And here they are,
your family.
Eileen, hold on Ma'am. Go.
Well Eileen, what’s it like being married to Alan?
Well we’ve had our ups and downs.
-Hasn't been boring.
- Would you care to elaborate? - No, no, no.
Eileen, I just wanted to thank you for being here.
I know it took a lot of convincing.
Look this really is the Eileen Bond story
as much as it is mine.
As much about the America’s Cup Challenge you mean
I swear I had no idea it was going to happen.
And no, Miss Bliss, in the parade?
I guess mistresses don’t count.
Eileen, please.
Are we getting a divorce?
I hope not.
Really? Hm.
There’s no one else I want to be married to.
You’ve been with me through all of it.
We’re good together, Eileen.
We have history.
I do love you.
Do you?
Please,
I will be a better husband I promise.
I know it’s going to take a lot of work,
but you know,
no one ever accused old A. B.
of not rolling up his sleeves and having a go.
That is the most unromantic thing I’ve ever heard, Alan.
- It was, wasn’t it? - Terrible.
-What do you say?
Beer.
Australia's favorite drink.
Come rain or shine,
wedding or funeral,
watching the game with your mates...
Or Anzac day, very important.
Oh yeah, good one.
Diggers.
Wedding or funeral.
Watching the game with your mates.
Or marching with The Diggers on Anzac Day.
The amber liquid always flows.
95% of the West Australian beer marketplace
is monopolized by the one brewery.
Swan.
Buy Swan,
and we will have a cash cow
to fund Bond Corp investments into the future.
When do you mention the cost?
Peter will just jump in and ask.
Thanks, Pet. How much you need?
160 Million.
- 160 million dollars? - Yes Peter.
He's not going to like that.
We can't raise 160 million. Let alone the takeover laws.
- But that won't stop you. - Let me worry about the money.
As soon as it's announced,
the share price will go through the roof.
We'll be biting off more than we can chew.
If you don't bite off more than you can chew.
How will you ever know how much you can fit in your mouth?
The financing of this one was a little...
unconventional.
I needed to find bankers
more on my wavelength.
Oh no please no. I can't.
If I eat any more you'll have to rub my belly for good luck.
Your friend is a funny man.
Now gentlemen, I think you know why I'm here.
We like the way you think big, Alan.
160 million dollars is big thinking.
But it won't be enough.
Once the takeover is announced,
the share price will skyrocket.
Which is why I plan to move quickly.
It won't be quick enough,
even for you, Alan.
What if we don't announce the takeover?
Your laws require it.
Not if I buy the company myself.
A sale to an individual isn't subject to takeover laws.
I buy it in my name,
then on-sell it to Bond Corp.
As a sale from an individual,
it isn't subject to either.
No one will know about it until the deal is done.
Oh yeah!
That's what I like to hear.
In a bold takeover move
that's left the business world and shareholders dazed
Bond Corporation now owns 100% of Swan Brewery.
A move that has left pundits wondering,
is this all part of Alan Bond's next America's Cup Challenge?
It was my fourth cup challenge.
This time we needed something new.
I had the best team in the world working for me
including boat designer, Ben Lexcen.
Man's a genius.
Righto Beno, what have you got for us?
- What's the secret weapon? - What do you think that is?
Well that, that's on upside down isn't it?
Of course bloody not!
It's got wings. It's a winged keel.
Is it fast?
Fast?
Mate we're going to make you racing history.
We're not just going to win the America's Cup,
we're going to win by bloody miles.
We're going to win some of these races by 20 minutes.
-Bull curse.
Is it legal?
Well what do you think?
- I'm just asking. - And I'm just telling,
Of course it bloody is.
You listen to me Beno,
there's no greater advantage in any contest
than a secret weapon,
real or psychological.
And the America's Cup is the biggest mind curse of them all.
Nobody can see this. I want a guard on that door.
We're in Holland. You don't need a guard.
Yes Beno, we need a guard on that door.
Maybe two.
Long before the first luff or puff of wind sea,
for months in fact,
the New York Yacht Club
has been fighting Alan Bond and his boys on shore.
Trying to get Australia II disqualified.
Mr. Bond says
it’s because they know Australia II is too fast.
Meet the commodores of the New York Yacht Club.
Some of them at least.
These commodores rule the waves,
but according to Alan Bond
they're also prepared to wave the rules.
Well I think become an obsession one or two individuals
to hold this cup at any cost.
I can't remember any event in the world
where anyone would try to
remove an opponent
before they even get to be an opponent.
Okay. I want guards here day and night.
Better get a couple of divers too.
You think they are going to try and take photographs underwater?
I wouldn't put anything past them.
Besides if they didn't want to before they gonna want to now.
You're gonna taunt them into it?
I need the public behind us Jonesy.
Fuel the passion.
What better way than to create an enemy?
Sure,
so long as that enemy doesn't bite us on the bum.
There were headlines in Dutch newspapers
claiming that they had designed a keel
and once again our fiduciary responsibility
made it absolutely necessary that we pursue that.
We weren't trying to question any honesty or integrity,
we were just trying to find facts.
Can you believe these curses?
They're saying the winged keel isn't legal.
-Calm down, Beno.
Are you sure?
How many times have I got to tell you?
I told you in Holland! Of course I'm bloody sure!
Alright!
They're also saying the Dutch designed it.
Well they did bloody not.
Get a hold of yourself Beno.
I'm not lying and I don't like being called a cheat!
I know. All right. I know.
This is what we wanted.
They're scared. We've got them running scared.
Good.
There are standards in any society that get stretched.
You saw it with Watergate
and let's call this one Keelgate
because it's difficult to understand
why they need to go to such lengths to win.
- Just a copy mate. - Yup.
- How are you going mate? - Good, yourself?
Fantastic.
We knew those curses, the Yanks,
would do anything to get a look at this keel.
We had to be vigilant at all times.
Nothing could be left to chance.
One slip up
and we were history.
- Just that. - 75 cents.
- Keep the change. - Oh thank you.
- See you later. - See you.
Yeah that right I left my plans on your photocopy machine.
Now look,
do me a favor,
don't let anyone see them, okay?
They're really important.
I'll be right down to pick them up.
Yeah, sure mate. Not a problem.
- Thank you. - You're welcome.
Well gentlemen,
I present to you,
the keel.
Curses!
What are you blokes doing?
He is into them already.
What is going on with the sail?
Have you told these fellas to do this?
Tarps front and back?
Stop these curses from having a look.
These guys will yeah.
- She is good. I think it’s good. - Hang on what’s that?
What the bloody hell?
I told you, Chris get in there!
There is a bloody diver in there mate.
Get in there now.
Get a hold of him! Bring him out!
Get him Chris!
Can you believe this curse?
Get that camera off him!
Get it off him!
Get it back.
The New York Yacht Club,
are threatening to cancel the race
because they’re scared we’re going to win.
So I say to them,
Australia II will be at the starting line no matter what.
And so will NBC, CBS,
and every other television network.
They’ll all get to see what a bunch of cowards
the New York Yacht Club really are.
I mean so disgusted are we,
with this dirty tricks campaign
that we are going to protest
to the International Yacht Racing Union
under Section 51 of the Rules of Conduct.
Thank you.
Section 51?
I’ve never heard of it.
That’s because I made it up.
Sounded bloody good, though, didn’t it?
Waging war with America isn’t good for the bank balance.
But the people they loved me.
It was those curses in the US banks who wouldn’t take my calls
...what the interest payments look like on 160 million dollars
I’m the one paying it.
You won’t believe the little shop I just found.
- Hello! - Milan and Paris.
Look I need to speak to someone can make a decision.
Mr. Bond.
Alan Bond.
-Ah, curse!
That sounded like it went well.
I have to go out.
-Nice to see you too darling.
I gotta get to Ted Turner’s.
I’d love to take you darling,
but there’ll be cameras swarming everywhere.
You know what he’s like.
The media love him almost as much as he loves himself.
You talking about Ted or Alan?
Welcome to Newport, Rhode Island
for race one of the best of seven final series
of the 1983 America’s Cup.
Alan Bond’s, Australia II,
is seen as the biggest threat to the American dominance
in the 132-year history of the race.
And they’re racing.
Australia II has missed the start
and seems to be suffering some sort of gear problem.
From that last tack it’s clear it’s a steering issue.
This is bad news for the Australians.
First blood to the USA.
Disaster for Australia II.
They will need to change that sail
and make up the time in the downward leg.
Liberty finishes 1 minute and 13 seconds ahead.
Australia II has found a terrific wind shift in favor.
She’s opening a strong lead over the American boat
as they approach the weather mark.
And there it is.
Australia II has won the third race by a huge margin.
They will be jumping for joy back home right now.
Just amazing.
Race 4.
You can see the Americans are extending their lead here.
Liberty is racing high in the water.
Tacking for speed.
It looks all over for Australia II.
And the fourth race goes to Liberty.
They need to only win one more race
and they will retain the coveted trophy.
Alan we’ve been more than generous with you mate,
but the interest payments on your loans are past overdue,
they’re in default.
This is the most important race of the century
and all you care about is getting your money.
- Just wait ‘til we win! - Yeah well what if you don’t?
I’ll give you a knife and you can stick me like a pig
and bleed me dry.
Hi love.
Here’s to you Alan!
Only three more to win!
Or one to lose! Make it today will you.
The fiery red-head.
You’ve won one race so you’re in the history books,
the last page is still open.
If you really want to be remembered now is your chance.
We’ve fought and we’ve battled,
just like they did at Gallipoli.
- But we lost at Gallipoli. - Hush.
So get out there
and win some bloody races!
I’ve given you a boat that’s capable of winning
but you keep cocking it up.
You have breakdowns, you stuff up the tactics.
So it’s not the boat any more,
alright it’s not me anymore.
It’s you guys and you guys alone.
It’s up to you now.
You heard him. Let’s go.
Race five and the Aussies have come out fighting,
taking the lead and winning by 1 minute 47 seconds.
Race six and the Australians are just too strong for Liberty.
Australia II crosses line 3 minutes and 25 seconds in front.
In the end it has been the easiest of victories
for the Australian team.
The Australians have staged an astonishing come back
to level the series at 3 to 3.
Can Australia II pull off the impossible and win final race?
There's not a lot I can say.
There is one more race.
Alright that's it.
It all comes down
to this.
You know the drill.
Australia wants you to win.
I want you to win.
Do you want to win?
-Well let's do it!
Hello.
Oh, Bob doll, how are you?
Oh yes, yes, I'll just get him for you. Hold on a tick.
Alan?
Quick.
- Who is it? - Bob.
-Hawke?
Prime Minister?
Yeah, you and me both.
Well, put one on ice for me.
All right. Okay mate.
Just wanted to wish us luck.
Said all of Australia was behind us.
Across Australia
through 148 stations,
this is the Today's Show satellite coverage
of the seventh race in the 1983 America's Cup.
Never before
have the American's come so close
to parting with the trophy.
Light winds of around 20 knots greet the yachts
as they nervously approach the starting line.
Let's cross across the continent from Sydney to Perth.
Well things are a little tense here at Royal Perth Yacht Club.
And Bertrand has made his first tactical error.
The Americans have an eight second lead at the start.
Curse! Curse! Bloody hell, Bertrand!
Australia II is trying to recover from its bad start
but Liberty leads around its first marker by 29 seconds.
Dennis Carter is one of the hardest men to beat at any time
let alone when he's in front.
Things are most certainly looking good
for the defending champion.
Traumatic wind shifts are happening.
And the resulting tacking duels are fierce and close.
At the second marker Liberty has increased
its lead by 45 seconds and it’s sailing confidently.
I can't bear to watch.
- Curse it! - Connor is prevailing
and despite the heroics of the brave challenger
it looks almost certain that the America's Cup will stay
in the hands of the New York Yacht Club
and... the USA.
Well we gave it a good crack, Beno.
We'll come back again next time.
Not me, I'll be dead by then.
Ah, here you go again, Mr. Cheery.
What is it with you and your death premonitions?
Not that it matters now.
My boat just wasn't fast enough.
It's not your boat.
Your boat is as good as I've ever seen.
Anyway.
Alan, quick!
They're not staying with them.
See that is extraordinary right?
One minute you have almost virtually written her off
and the next minute
there they are together
and she is right back in the race.
Alan! look, look, look!
Australia II has taken a different course to Liberty.
And Connor hasn't covered them.
This is unbelievable,
a terrible tactical mistake by the Americans.
Connor is driving back to take the position.
Australia is right back in this race.
It has paid off and it has done well.
Yes! He's in front mate.
Go! Cover off!
Here they come and Australia is in front.
Australia is in front.
Keep tacking mate, keep tacking.
In goes Connor.
The Australian boat will counter almost immediately.
We're on the last leg
and Australia II is maintaining its lead.
Tack after grueling tack
Connor seems to be throwing everything at the Aussies
to try and close the distance on Australia
who are responding magnificently.
Ladies and gentlemen you are witnessing history.
Australia II had to win the last three races
to achieve the unbelievable
and achieve it they will.
Come on! Go!
- Go!
The impossible dream has finally come true
after 132 years, Alan Bond's yacht Australia II
has won the America's Cup
by a fighting 4-3 margin
in the best of seven series.
After twenty hours of racing...
Winner takes all, do or die.
There's no tomorrow without The America's Cup.
As of this afternoon it belongs to Australia.
Australia II has done what no other yacht been able to do...
Australia II has done it.
I tell you what any boss who sacks anyone
for not turning up today is a bum.
Hey!
There it was.
Our moment of glory.
And do you think the banks took my calls?
Too bloody right, they did.
I was the unofficial King of Australia.
Now it was time to take on the world.