Australia’s Northern territory, until now administered by the federal government, is granted partial self-rule in 1978.

Muldoon establishes Petrocorp in April, 1978.

New Zealand taxpayers cover exploration costs; Big Oil controls all distribution outlets.

Muldoon allegedly blocks development of Maui B as restructured supplies mean higher prices and greater profits for Shell/BP/Todd.

The South Island gas market remains undeveloped as the Great South Basin fields are closer than Kapuni.

Plans are allegedly developed for opening New Zealand’s National Parks for mineral exploitation.

On July 22, 1978, the Director of Australia’s Federal Bureau of Narcotics suspends his investigation into the Nugan Hand Bank after alleged pressure from the CIA July 22 and pro-US politicians including Malcolm Fraser.

Brierley’s declared assets reach a reported $200 million, with shareholders’ funds totaling only $17 million.

Australian director Fred Schepisi’s 1978 film of Keneally’s novel “The Chant of Jimmie Blacksmith,” introduces aboriginal protagonists to international audiences.

Australian poet David Malouf evokes a primitive time in 1978’s hallucinatory “An Imaginary Life.”