Catalyst (TV program)
| Company type | Television series |
|---|---|
| Industry | Science journalism, Television broadcasting |
| Founded | 2001 |
| Headquarters | Australia |
Area served | Australia |
| Products | Science television program |
| Website | www |
Catalyst is a science journalism television series from Australia, broadcast by the ABC. It holds the distinction of being the sole science program airing during primetime slots on Australian television. Debuting in 2001, it succeeded Quantum (TV series), which concluded the year before. Catalyst is scheduled for broadcast on ABC TV at 8:30 pm every Tuesday, with repeat airings on Sundays at 6:00 pm.
Overview
This series presents scientific stories that highlight important recent advancements and breakthroughs relevant both within Australia and globally. Its goal is to deliver precise information while captivating a broad audience, frequently addressing the ethical, political, and wider societal impacts of scientific research. The program’s official description states that "Catalyst, Australia's premier weekly science show, highlights discoveries from Australian and international science."
Among its well-known features are segments such as "Corporate Psychopaths," "The Truth About Vitamins," and "Smell and Schizophrenia."
Initially produced as a 30-minute program, Catalyst expanded to an hour-long format in 2017 following internal evaluations and controversies. This extended version includes comprehensive documentaries led by external specialists. Past episodes have explored subjects including "The Great Australian Bee Challenge," "Bionic Revolution," "Feeding Australia," and "The Secret To Making Better Decisions."
Staff
Throughout its run, Catalyst has employed various personnel:
Presenters and reporters
- Paul West, former chef and agriculturalist
- Dr Caroline West, general practitioner
- Dr Sarah McKay, neuroscientist
- Prof Tamara Davis, astrophysicist
- Dr Preeya Alexander, general practitioner
- Dr Ann Jones, enthusiast of natural history
- Angharad "Rad" Yeo, technology correspondent
- Matt Okine, comedian and actor
- Tom Gleeson, comedian with a physics background
- Myf Warhurst, broadcaster and TV host
- Dr Garnett Hall, veterinarian
- Dr Niraj Lal, researcher in energy and author
- Lily Serna, mathematician
- Nikki Stamp, cardiothoracic and transplant surgeon
- Brad McKay, general practitioner
- Dr Joanna McMillan, dietitian
- Dr Shalin Naik, specialist in stem cell biology
- Derek Muller, physicist
- Jonica Newby, veterinarian
- Jordan Nguyen, biomedical engineer
- Graham Phillips, astrophysicist
- Anja Taylor, model, actress, reporter, and producer
- Maryanne Demasi, investigative journalist and presenter
- Alan Duffy, astronomer
- Tim Flannery, palaeontologist and environmental advocate
Controversy
In October 2013, Catalyst broadcast "Heart of the Matter" parts one and two, which questioned the relationships between saturated fat, cholesterol, cardiovascular disease, and the use of statin medications. These episodes attracted criticism from healthcare professionals and the National Heart Foundation of Australia, which estimated that as many as 55,000 individuals might have ceased their medication because of the program—potentially increasing their risk of heart attacks and strokes. Following an internal investigation in May 2014, ABC withdrew both episodes after determining that the second installment violated impartiality guidelines by omitting critical information.
In February 2016, the episode titled "Wi-Fried?" featured epidemiologist Devra Davis making claims that electromagnetic radiation from devices such as mobile phones elevates brain cancer risk among heavy users. This assertion conflicted with established scientific consensus and provoked criticism from experts and viewers alike. Public health academic Simon Chapman advocated for a reassessment of Catalyst's editorial standards. An inquiry by ABC Audience and Consumer Affairs confirmed breaches regarding accuracy and impartiality standards, resulting in the episode’s removal from ABC’s online platform. Reporter Dr. Maryanne Demasi faced temporary suspension following this incident. Subsequently, ABC undertook a review of Catalyst's direction and introduced changes to its format in later seasons.
See also
- Nova
- BBC Horizon
- List of Australian television series
- List of longest-running Australian television series
External links
- Official website
- The Lab – ABC’s science portal
- Articles with short description
- Australian non-fiction television series
- Australian Broadcasting Corporation original programming
- 2001 Australian television series debuts
- 2010s Australian television series
- Documentary television series about science
- Documentary television series about technology
- Australian English-language television shows