Having axed Neighbours and then seen Network Ten make a success of it, the Seven Network launched Home and Away as a formidable soap opera rival.

The title sequence from the pilot episode makes the most out of the series' idyllic setting: Summer Bay's beach, gulls, pelicans, fishing spots and surfers dominate the '80s cut-out graphics. Interspersed between images of glittering surf and sands are the Fletcher family, the show's original protagonists – including Sally Fletcher (eight-year-old Kate Ritchie, who grows up on the show).

Viewers of this clip can also experience the original version of the iconic theme song, composed by Mike Perjanik and featuring vocals by Karen Boddington and Mark Williams. Warm, poppy and romantic, the track matches the beach atmosphere and is widely recognised in Australia. This version was played until 1995, and nine different versions have since been recorded, along with a short instrumental take.

Looking back on this sequence now, after many dramatic storylines over subsequent decades, the simplicity of the first episode is striking. To make an impact, all they needed was a wholesome family, beach views and a sunny earworm about being closer each day.