Weird Crap in Australia

The legend of the ANZACs was born not through victory, but through courage, endurance, and mateship under fire. From the rocky shores of Gallipoli to the muddy battlefields of the Western Front, Australian and New Zealand troops earned a reputation for resilience, resourcefulness, and unbreakable spirit.Though the Gallipoli campaign ended in withdrawal, the actions of the ANZACs forged a national identity that continues to shape Australia and New Zealand today. Their story is one of hardship, sacrifice, and a legacy that lives on more than a century later. Join Holly & Matthew as they explore the birth of the ANZAC legend and its lasting impact on national memory.***"And the Band Played Waltzing Matilda" (1971) written and performed by Eric Bogle.This modern folk ballad reflects on the devastating human cost of war, particularly the Gallipoli campaign, through the eyes of a wounded Australian veteran. Written by Scottish-born Australian singer-songwriter Eric Bogle (b. 1944), the song became a poignant anti-war anthem, contrasting sharply with earlier patriotic tunes. It has been widely covered and remains a powerful meditation on memory, sacrifice, and the price of national mythmaking.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

The legend of the ANZACs was born not through victory, but through courage, endurance, and mateship under fire. From the rocky shores of Gallipoli to the muddy battlefields of the Western Front, Australian and New Zealand troops earned a reputation for resilience, resourcefulness, and unbreakable spirit.Though the Gallipoli campaign ended in withdrawal, the actions of the ANZACs forged a national identity that continues to shape Australia and New Zealand today. Their story is one of hardship, sacrifice, and a legacy that lives on more than a century later. Join Holly & Matthew as they explore the birth of the ANZAC legend and its lasting impact on national memory.***"The Boys of the Dardanelles" (1916) recorded by Stanley Kirkby. No longer in copyright. Boys of the Dardanelles commemorates the sacrifice made by Australians in the Great War. Composition by Marsh Little (1880 - 1958). It was used to encourage recruitment. Performed by English singer Stanley Kirkby (1878 - 1949). Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

In the icy waters of Twofold Bay, a strange alliance once thrived between man and whale. At the heart of it was Old Tom, a killer whale unlike any other—who, along with his pod, helped human whalers hunt baleen whales in exchange for first dibs on the spoils.This wasn't legend. It was a documented partnership that spanned generations, built on eerie trust and uncanny understanding. But like many good things, it didn't last. When Old Tom's body washed ashore in 1930, the bond between species died with him. Join Holly & Matthew as they explore the extraordinary story of Old Tom and the Killers of Twofold Bay. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

Carl Williams rose from small-time drug dealer to one of the most powerful—and dangerous—figures in Melbourne's gangland wars. Known for his smiling, seemingly unbothered public appearances, Williams was anything but harmless. He orchestrated a bloody campaign that left multiple rivals dead, including members of the Moran family, as he sought to dominate Melbourne's criminal underworld in the early 2000s.Join Holly & Matthew as they explore the life and legacy of Carl Williams, the man who declared war on Melbourne's underworld—and paid the price.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

Judy Moran, once known as the matriarch of Melbourne's most notorious criminal family, became a central figure in the city's brutal gangland wars. Linked to a string of high-profile murders, Judy's name was never far from headlines as her family—husband, sons, and eventually even her brother-in-law—fell victim to the violent world they helped shape. In 2009, the story took a darker turn when Judy was convicted of orchestrating the murder of Des Moran, her late husband's brother. Her downfall marked the end of the Moran family's dominance in Melbourne's criminal underworld, sealing her legacy as both a mother and mastermind in one of Australia's bloodiest crime sagas.Join Holly & Matthew as they delve into the life and legacy of Judy Moran, from family matriarch to convicted murderer, and what her story reveals about the true cost of life in Melbourne's underworld.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

Leslie “Les” Moran was a veteran of Melbourne's underworld, deeply entrenched in the city's organised crime scene. As a senior figure within the Moran family, he survived the early years of the gangland war, watching as his relatives were picked off one by one. However, his luck ran out in 2004 when he was shot dead in a daylight execution—a clear message in a war that showed no mercy. His death marked yet another brutal chapter in the ongoing bloodshed that gripped Melbourne for over a decade.Join Holly & Matthew as they explore the life and death of Les Moran and his role in Melbourne's gangland war. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

Jason Moran was a central figure in Melbourne's gangland war, born into one of the city's most notorious crime families. Known for his involvement in drug trafficking and violent underworld disputes, Moran's life was marked by power plays and deadly rivalries. His assassination in 2003—gunned down in front of children at a football clinic—sent shockwaves through Australia and intensified a bloody underworld feud that had already claimed many lives.Join Holly & Matthew as they explore the violent rise and fall of Jason Moran and his part in Melbourne's gangland war.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

Melbourne's gangland war claimed many lives, and Mark Moran was one of its most high-profile casualties. A key player in the city's underworld, Moran was deeply entrenched in organised crime, with connections to drug trafficking and violent turf wars. His murder in 2000 marked a turning point in the escalating conflict, setting off a brutal cycle of revenge killings that would dominate headlines for years.Join Holly & Matthew as they explore the life and death of Mark Moran and his role in Melbourne's gangland war.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

During Melbourne's infamous gangland wars, one criminal organisation loomed large—the Carlton Crew. Made up of powerful underworld figures, the group controlled illegal gambling, drug trafficking, and extortion throughout the city. Their influence and wealth made them targets, and as tensions escalated with rival factions, the streets of Melbourne became a battleground. Betrayals, assassinations, and police crackdowns followed, marking one of Australia's most violent crime sagas.Join Holly & Matthew as they explore the rise and fall of the Carlton Crew and their role in Melbourne's gangland wars.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

The Melbourne gangland war was a brutal chapter in Australia's criminal history, and the Kane brothers—Brian and Leslie—were right at its core. Known for their violent reputations and deep ties to organised crime, the Kane brothers became infamous figures in Melbourne's underworld. Their brutal feuds, particularly with the Moran family and other crime syndicates, escalated into bloody street wars, leading to assassinations, betrayals, and an era of chaos that gripped the city.Join Holly & Matthew as they explore the dark world of the Kane brothers and their role in Melbourne's gangland war.Background episodes (chronological order):61 & 62 - Old Melbourne Gaol311 - L'Onorata Societa and the Victoria Market Murders76 & 77 - The Walsh St Shooting327 & 328 - Chopper Read Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

The Melbourne gangland war was a brutal chapter in Australia's criminal history, and the Kane brothers—Brian and Leslie—were right at its core. Known for their violent reputations and deep ties to organised crime, the Kane brothers became infamous figures in Melbourne's underworld. Their brutal feuds, particularly with the Moran family and other crime syndicates, escalated into bloody street wars, leading to assassinations, betrayals, and an era of chaos that gripped the city.Join Holly & Matthew as they explore the dark world of the Kane brothers and their role in Melbourne's gangland war.Background episodes (chronological order):311 - L'Onorata Societa and the Victoria Market Murders 76 & 77 - The Walsh St Shooting327 & 328 - Chopper Read Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

Blinky Bill, created by Dorothy Wall in the 1930s, has captured the hearts of generations through books, television, and film. More than just a cheeky bush troublemaker, Blinky represents resilience, adventure, and the spirit of the Australian outback. His tales have been used to teach children about conservation, friendship, and the challenges facing Australia's unique wildlife.Join Holly & Matthew as they explore the legacy of Blinky Bill and his impact on Australian culture.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

A mother and her two young children vanished from their home in Baulkham Hills, New South Wales, in August 1978. Their disappearance quickly turned into a horrifying crime that shocked the nation. The family had been abducted, taken on a terrifying journey north before meeting a brutal and senseless end. What followed was a desperate manhunt, a tense standoff, and a case that remains one of Australia's most chilling acts of violence.Join Holly & Matthew as they explore the tragic murders of Valda, Sally, and Damien Connell, and the impact this horrific crime left on Australia.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

A mother and her two young children vanished from their home in Baulkham Hills, New South Wales, in August 1978. Their disappearance quickly turned into a horrifying crime that shocked the nation. The family had been abducted, taken on a terrifying journey north before meeting a brutal and senseless end. What followed was a desperate manhunt, a tense standoff, and a case that remains one of Australia's most chilling acts of violence.Join Holly & Matthew as they explore the tragic murders of Valda, Sally, and Damien Connell, and the impact this horrific crime left on Australia.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

The North Head Quarantine Station, located on the northern headland of Sydney Harbour, holds a chilling legacy as one of Australia's most significant quarantine sites. Operating from 1833 to 1984, the station housed those afflicted by contagious diseases, such as smallpox, Spanish flu, and the plague, aiming to prevent outbreaks in the Australian colony. Thousands passed through its gates, many of whom never left.With its preserved heritage buildings and proximity to mass graves, North Head is also notorious for its ghost stories and reported paranormal activity. Stories of shadowy figures, unexplained sounds, and otherworldly encounters are told by staff and visitors alike, cementing its place as a hotspot for both history buffs and ghost hunters.Join Holly & Matthew as they uncover the harrowing stories of survival, death, and the spectres that linger in the shadows of the North Head Quarantine Station.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

Edwin Eastwood was back at it again. Armed with a firearm, he entered the Wooreen State School and took nine students and their teacher, Rob Hunter, hostage. The kidnapper's demands for a ransom and threats heightened the terror of those involved. What did he want? Drugs, money and freedom.Join Holly & Matthew as they explore the details of the kidnapping, the experiences of those involved, and the long-lasting impact this ordeal had on the victims and Mr Lindsay Thompson.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

The Faraday School kidnapping shocked Australia, as a group of six schoolgirls and their teacher, Mary Gibbs, were taken by two armed kidnappers. They stormed the small Faraday School in rural Victoria and held the group hostage, demanding a ransom of a cool million dollars. The police launched an intense search while the kidnappers took the victims into the bushland, keeping them captive for several days.Join Holly & Matthew as they explore the details of the kidnapping, the resilience of the victims, and the enduring impact this crime has had on its victims.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

A Royal Train carrying Edward, Prince of Wales (later King Edward VIII), derailed near Jarnadup, Western Australia, during his Australian tour. The accident occurred when the rails spread, causing the last two carriages, including the Prince's, to overturn down a low embankment. Remarkably, no one was injured, though the event temporarily trapped the Prince and his entourage in the overturned carriage. This incident, though potentially perilous, endeared the Prince even more to Australians. Known affectionately as the “Digger Prince,” his poise and quick wit during the ordeal reinforced his popularity with the public, already captivated by his tour of the country. The event remains a notable chapter in the history of royal visits to Australia, reflecting both the challenges of travel and the Prince's grace under pressure.Join Holly & Matthew as they explore the derailment, the tour, and the wider context of royal visits to Australia.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

In 1949, one of Australia's largest industrial actions took place when coal miners staged a well-planned strike. Beginning in June and lasting nearly seven weeks, the strike involved more than 23,000 workers protesting poor wages and dangerous working conditions in the coal mines. Coal was a critical energy resource post-World War II, and the strike brought industries and households across the nation to a standstill, causing significant economic and social disruption.Join Holly & Matthew as they unearth the tensions, key players, and ramifications of the 1949 Coal Miners' Strike, exploring its profound legacy on Australian industrial relations.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

Australia's Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) has stood as a beacon of hope for those living in its most remote and unforgiving regions. Founded in 1928 by Reverend John Flynn, the service was born out of the need to provide critical medical care to isolated communities. Initially known as the Aerial Medical Service, it has grown into one of the world's largest and most comprehensive aeromedical organisations, covering 7.69 million square kilometres.The RFDS's impact is profound, delivering essential healthcare, emergency evacuations, and telehealth consultations to areas that would otherwise lack access. Whether reaching a station deep in the Outback or responding to life-threatening accidents far from conventional hospitals, the RFDS remains a lifeline for countless Australians. Its innovation and adaptability have secured its place as a vital part of the nation's heritage.Join Holly & Matthew as they take to the skies to uncover the history, challenges, and extraordinary feats of the Royal Flying Doctor Service, and the people who keep it airborne.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

Australia's Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) has stood as a beacon of hope for those living in its most remote and unforgiving regions. Founded in 1928 by Reverend John Flynn, the service was born out of the need to provide critical medical care to isolated communities. Initially known as the Aerial Medical Service, it has grown into one of the world's largest and most comprehensive aeromedical organisations, covering 7.69 million square kilometres.The RFDS's impact is profound, delivering essential healthcare, emergency evacuations, and telehealth consultations to areas that would otherwise lack access. Whether reaching a station deep in the Outback or responding to life-threatening accidents far from conventional hospitals, the RFDS remains a lifeline for countless Australians. Its innovation and adaptability have secured its place as a vital part of the nation's heritage.Join Holly & Matthew as they take to the skies to uncover the history, challenges, and extraordinary feats of the Royal Flying Doctor Service, and the people who keep it airborne.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

In the 1950s, Australia was gripped by a bizarre and terrifying trend of thallium poisoning, one of the most sinister and mysterious poisoning cases in Australian history. Thallium, a highly toxic metal, was used in a range of household items, including rat poisons and insecticides, and became the weapon of choice for a number of perpetrators. The poison's ability to cause severe and often fatal damage to the nervous system made it incredibly difficult to detect, and as such, it led to a series of deaths and illnesses across the country. At the time, symptoms of poisoning were easily mistaken for other diseases, leading to confusion and numerous misdiagnoses.Join Holly & Matthew as they delve into this shocking chapter of Australian crime history, exploring the chilling details of the poisonings and how they led to greater awareness and safety regulations around toxic substances in Australia.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

In the 1950s, Australia was gripped by a bizarre and terrifying trend of thallium poisoning, one of the most sinister and mysterious poisoning cases in Australian history. Thallium, a highly toxic metal, was used in a range of household items, including rat poisons and insecticides, and became the weapon of choice for a number of perpetrators. The poison's ability to cause severe and often fatal damage to the nervous system made it incredibly difficult to detect, and as such, it led to a series of deaths and illnesses across the country. At the time, symptoms of poisoning were easily mistaken for other diseases, leading to confusion and numerous misdiagnoses.Join Holly & Matthew as they delve into this shocking chapter of Australian crime history, exploring the chilling details of the poisonings and how they led to greater awareness and safety regulations around toxic substances in Australia.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

In the 1950s, Australia was gripped by a bizarre and terrifying trend of thallium poisoning, one of the most sinister and mysterious poisoning cases in Australian history. Thallium, a highly toxic metal, was used in a range of household items, including rat poisons and insecticides, and became the weapon of choice for a number of perpetrators. The poison's ability to cause severe and often fatal damage to the nervous system made it incredibly difficult to detect, and as such, it led to a series of deaths and illnesses across the country. At the time, symptoms of poisoning were easily mistaken for other diseases, leading to confusion and numerous misdiagnoses.Join Holly & Matthew as they delve into this shocking chapter of Australian crime history, exploring the chilling details of the poisonings and how they led to greater awareness and safety regulations around toxic substances in Australia.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

In the 1950s, Australia was gripped by a bizarre and terrifying trend of thallium poisoning, one of the most sinister and mysterious poisoning cases in Australian history. Thallium, a highly toxic metal, was used in a range of household items, including rat poisons and insecticides, and became the weapon of choice for a number of perpetrators. The poison's ability to cause severe and often fatal damage to the nervous system made it incredibly difficult to detect, and as such, it led to a series of deaths and illnesses across the country. At the time, symptoms of poisoning were easily mistaken for other diseases, leading to confusion and numerous misdiagnoses.Join Holly & Matthew as they delve into this shocking chapter of Australian crime history, exploring the chilling details of the poisonings and how they led to greater awareness and safety regulations around toxic substances in Australia.***"Cell Block Tango" clip - By John Kander and Fred EbbPart of the movie "Chicago" (2002)Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

Big Philou, an Australian racehorse with promising odds in the Melbourne Cup, became infamous for a scandal that rocked the racing world. Just minutes before the race, Big Philou was scratched due to a sudden illness, later found to be caused by a malicious case of doping. The horse had been a favourite to win, and the last-minute scratching not only cost owners, bettors, and fans but also spurred an investigation into race-fixing and doping within Australian horse racing.Join Holly & Matthew as they dive into the mystery of Big Philou's last-minute Melbourne Cup removal, the aftermath of the scandal, and how it changed the course of Australian racing history.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

Round the Twist is an iconic Australian children's television series that aired from 1989 to 2001, famous for its quirky humor, supernatural themes, and often bizarre storylines. Created by author Paul Jennings and based on his short stories, the show follows the Twist family—siblings Pete, Linda, and Bronson, and their dad, Tony—as they encounter surreal adventures in a haunted lighthouse on the fictional Australian coast.The show is remembered for its episodes that mixed absurdity with heartfelt moments, tackling issues like adolescence, relationships, and identity in unique and humorous ways. With catchphrases like "Have you ever… ever felt like this?" and its unforgettable theme song, Round the Twist quickly gained a cult following. It was celebrated not only in Australia but also found an audience internationally, thanks to its relatable characters and inventive storytelling.Join Holly and Matthew as they look in on this quirky series for our contribution to the Halloween spirit, and nostalgia the hell out of some episodes. Without my pants.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

At 11:50 a.m. on October 15, a 2,000-ton section of the bridge buckled and fell into the Yarra River, along with the workers on site. It remains one of Australia's worst industrial accidents, leaving a profound impact on construction safety standards nationwide.The collapse was caused by a combination of design flaws and construction errors, leading to a Royal Commission investigation. The tragedy transformed workplace safety practices, particularly in high-risk industries, and led to stricter regulations for future projects.Join Matthew & Holly as they look into the causes, both preventable and not, and the consequences of the collapse.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

At 11:50 a.m. on October 15, a 2,000-ton section of the bridge buckled and fell into the Yarra River, along with the workers on site. It remains one of Australia's worst industrial accidents, leaving a profound impact on construction safety standards nationwide.The collapse was caused by a combination of design flaws and construction errors, leading to a Royal Commission investigation. The tragedy transformed workplace safety practices, particularly in high-risk industries, and led to stricter regulations for future projects.Join Matthew & Holly as they look into the causes, both preventable and not, and the consequences of the collapse.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

The May 8 protests, part of the Moratorium to End the Vietnam War movement, saw hundreds of thousands of Australians take to the streets. These demonstrations were some of the largest anti-war protests in the country's history, and they spanned across Melbourne, Sydney, and other major cities. The protests were inspired by similar movements in the United States, with Australians calling for the withdrawal of Australian troops from Vietnam and an end to conscription.The Vietnam War divided Australian society, with many questioning the government's involvement in a conflict so far from home. The May 8 protests highlighted the growing discontent with the war and contributed to shifting public opinion, which would eventually lead to the end of Australia's direct military involvement in 1972.Join Holly & Matthew as they look into Australia's involvement in Vietnam, our changing views on it - and what the Americans did to change our minds.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

The May 8 protests, part of the Moratorium to End the Vietnam War movement, saw hundreds of thousands of Australians take to the streets. These demonstrations were some of the largest anti-war protests in the country's history, and they spanned across Melbourne, Sydney, and other major cities. The protests were inspired by similar movements in the United States, with Australians calling for the withdrawal of Australian troops from Vietnam and an end to conscription.The Vietnam War divided Australian society, with many questioning the government's involvement in a conflict so far from home. The May 8 protests highlighted the growing discontent with the war and contributed to shifting public opinion, which would eventually lead to the end of Australia's direct military involvement in 1972.Join Holly & Matthew as they look into Australia's involvement in Vietnam, our changing views on it - and what the Americans did to change our minds.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

Located along the Limestone Coast, The Shaft is one of the region's most alluring yet treacherous underwater caves. In 1973, while attempting to explore the sinkhole's submerged chambers, a group of 9 divers came up against their own mortality - and some didn't live through the experience.The tragedy underscored the extreme dangers of cave diving in Australia. The Shaft, known for its alluring depths and limited visibility, would go on to become a symbol of the deadly potential of underwater exploration. This incident prompted authorities to create a body for training divers, enforce tighter safety measures in the sport, shaping the future of cave diving regulations in the region.Join Holly & Matthew as they look into one of Holly's biggest fears: Drowning alone in the dark, hundreds of feet below water level.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

The Great Barrier Reef, the world's largest coral reef system, located off the coast of Queensland, Australia, has long been a marvel of natural beauty and ecological importance. Stretching over 2,300 kilometers, it comprises over 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands. Its biodiverse ecosystem supports countless species and holiday makers, as well as the occasional UFO report.Join Holly & Matthew as they look far back into the past to discover this natural wonder anew.And remember, Just Keep Swimming, Fish are Friends, Not Food. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

Mark "Chopper" Read, one of Australia's most notorious criminals, was known for his violent past and larger-than-life persona. He was involved in organized crime, including stints as a debt collector, hitman, and underworld enforcer, throughout the 1970s and 80s. Despite his criminal activities, Read became a controversial figure in Australian media, gaining notoriety for his bestselling books that chronicled his criminal exploits.While his tales were often exaggerated or self-aggrandized, Read's life offered a glimpse into the dark underworld of Australia's crime scene. His candid recounting of his life led to interviews, public appearances, and even a 2000 film, Chopper, where he was portrayed by actor Eric Bana. Read's stories and charisma fascinated many, but his violent legacy also sparked debate on whether criminals should be celebrated in popular culture.Join Holly & Matthew as they wader through the legacy of Chopper Read, trying to sort fact from fiction, and discuss the morality of venerating a criminal.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

Mark "Chopper" Read, one of Australia's most notorious criminals, was known for his violent past and larger-than-life persona. He was involved in organized crime, including stints as a debt collector, hitman, and underworld enforcer, throughout the 1970s and 80s. Despite his criminal activities, Read became a controversial figure in Australian media, gaining notoriety for his bestselling books that chronicled his criminal exploits.While his tales were often exaggerated or self-aggrandized, Read's life offered a glimpse into the dark underworld of Australia's crime scene. His candid recounting of his life led to interviews, public appearances, and even a 2000 film, Chopper, where he was portrayed by actor Eric Bana. Read's stories and charisma fascinated many, but his violent legacy also sparked debate on whether criminals should be celebrated in popular culture.Join Holly & Matthew as they wader through the legacy of Chopper Read, trying to sort fact from fiction, and discuss the morality of venerating a criminal.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

Echidnas are one of the most distinctive mammals on the planet, belonging to the rare group of monotremes, which also includes the platypus. These spiny creatures are equipped with a long, sticky tongue that they use to capture ants and termites, their primary food sources. Despite their spiky appearance, echidnas are shy and solitary animals, often found burrowing into the ground to escape predators or extreme weather conditions.Join Matthew & Holly as they explore the biology, behavior, and quirks of these spiky monotremes. Learn about the echidna's incredible adaptations, from their specialized snouts to their unusual reproduction process, and uncover some lesser-known facts that highlight just how extraordinary these animals are.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

In this series, we take on the truest form of gaslighting history to dive deep into the life and legacy of Captain James Cook, the legendary British explorer known for his voyages to the Pacific. While his adventures and discoveries have been celebrated for centuries, many myths and misconceptions about his life and actions persist.From his humble beginnings and early naval career that shaped him into a master navigator, his first Pacific expedition where he charted New Zealand and the eastern coast of Australia, and common myths about his interactions with indigenous peoples, his supposed brutality, and the true nature of his death in Hawaii, so many stories and legends have popped up, not helped in the least by British propaganda.  Join Holly & Matthew as they separate fact from fiction, exploring the true story of Captain James Cook, and debunking the myths of his time. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

In this series, we take on the truest form of gaslighting history to dive deep into the life and legacy of Captain James Cook, the legendary British explorer known for his voyages to the Pacific. While his adventures and discoveries have been celebrated for centuries, many myths and misconceptions about his life and actions persist.From his humble beginnings and early naval career that shaped him into a master navigator, his first Pacific expedition where he charted New Zealand and the eastern coast of Australia, and common myths about his interactions with indigenous peoples, his supposed brutality, and the true nature of his death in Hawaii,somany stories and legends have popped up, not helped in the least by British propaganda.  Join Holly & Matthew as they separate fact from fiction, exploring the true story of Captain James Cook, and debunking the myths of his time. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

In this series, we take on the truest form of gaslighting history to dive deep into the life and legacy of Captain James Cook, the legendary British explorer known for his voyages to the Pacific. While his adventures and discoveries have been celebrated for centuries, many myths and misconceptions about his life and actions persist.From his humble beginnings and early naval career that shaped him into a master navigator, his first Pacific expedition where he charted New Zealand and the eastern coast of Australia, and common myths about his interactions with indigenous peoples, his supposed brutality, and the true nature of his death in Hawaii,somany stories and legends have popped up, not helped in the least by British propaganda.  Join Holly & Matthew as they separate fact from fiction, exploring the true story of Captain James Cook, and debunking the myths of his time. ***"Great Southern Land" is by Icehouse."Bound for Botany Bay" is performed by John Williamson.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

Explore the stories and legacies of the earlier European discoverers who ventured into unknown territories long before Captain Cook.In this episode, we'll discuss the misconceptions surrounding these pioneers, delving into their voyages, interactions with First Nations peoples, and the profound impacts they had on the New World.From their motivations and navigational challenges to the lasting effects of their discoveries, we provide a comprehensive look at these adventurers. Join Holly & Matthew as they separate fact from fiction and uncover the true stories behind the legends of the early European explorers to Australian shores.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

The history of the Australian Football League (AFL) is rich and multifaceted, beginning in the mid-19th century. Australian Rules Football was officially codified in Melbourne in 1859, with the establishment of the Melbourne Football Club. The Victorian Football League (VFL), which would later become the AFL, was founded in 1896. The league expanded nationally in the 1980s and 1990s, evolving into the AFL in 1990.Today, the AFL is the premier professional Australian Rules Football competition, boasting a passionate fan base and significant cultural impact in Australia. Join Holly & Matthew as they explore the League, its past, and its future.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

The history of the Australian Football League (AFL) is rich and multifaceted, beginning in the mid-19th century. Australian Rules Football was officially codified in Melbourne in 1859, with the establishment of the Melbourne Football Club. The Victorian Football League (VFL), which would later become the AFL, was founded in 1896. The league expanded nationally in the 1980s and 1990s, evolving into the AFL in 1990.Today, the AFL is the premier professional Australian Rules Football competition, boasting a passionate fan base and significant cultural impact in Australia. Join Holly & Matthew as they explore the League, its past, and its future.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

In 1998, a home in Humpty Doo, NT, became the site of intense paranormal activity. Objects flew through the air, gravel and shells rained from the ceiling, and Scrabble tiles spelled eerie messages.Priests, journalists, and police witnessed the chaos, which the residents linked to a deceased friend named 'Troy'. Despite multiple exorcism attempts, the poltergeist's violent behavior persisted until the tenants fled.Join Holly & Matthew as they examine the Humpty Doo Poltergeist, Australia's most documented poltergeist.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

In 1946, on the back of decades and generations of racist government and pastoralist policy 800 First Nations people walked off the stations they'd been assigned in the Pilbara Region, risking prosecution and assault by the law-keepers.Three years later, the strike broke, but only through underhanded tactics by the government and farmers put out by the strike. This was a failed strike in terms of their £1 per week demands, but in terms of scaring the Western Australian government and gathering sympathy in the people of Perth, it was a winner.This was the longest industrial action strike in Australia's history. More would follow, but we pay tributes to the original, and the chain of actions their strike spawned.Join Holly & Matthew as they read up on the strike, the people, and the repercussions.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

In 1946, on the back of decades and generations of racist government and pastoralist policy 800 First Nations people walked off the stations they'd been assigned in the Pilbara Region, risking prosecution and assault by the law-keepers.Three years later, the strike broke, but only through underhanded tactics by the government and farmers put out by the strike. This was a failed strike in terms of their £1 per week demands, but in terms of scaring the Western Australian government and gathering sympathy in the people of Perth, it was a winner.This was the longest industrial action strike in Australia's history. More would follow, but we pay tributes to the original, and the chain of actions their strike spawned.Join Holly & Matthew as they read up on the strike, the people, and the repercussions.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

When Americans talk about how dangerous our country is, especially with our snake, spider and drop bear populations, most Australians laugh. How could anyone who lives in the same space as a mountain lion, a grizzly bear and a coyote really think our animals are dangerous? What, you think the cuddly koala or the beefy wombat could kill you?It turns out that Americans might be right after all. Join Holly & Matthew as they explore the world of the Wombat, its ancient stories, and some terrifying encounters.____The story of Mirram The Kangaroo and Warreen The Wombat can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xDJrnldb08oBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

The Twelve Tribes cult established its first community in Australia in the late 1990s. Known for its communal lifestyle and strict adherence to a unique interpretation of the Bible, the Twelve Tribes attracted followers seeking a close-knit, spiritual community. However, the group has faced significant controversy, including allegations of child labor, physical punishment, and indoctrination.The Australian branches of the Twelve Tribes have been investigated multiple times for their treatment of children and their isolationist practices. In 2020, their ex-leader was murdered.Join Holly & Matthew as they look into the unique branch of the Twelve tribes Cult that calls the Blue Mountains home, their history, and their controversies.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

Eighteen-year-old Niamh Maye disappeared on Easter Sunday, 2002, near Tumut, New South Wales. Having traveled to the Riverina region for a gap year with two friends, Niamh was last seen getting into a black hearse with a man she met on the road, Jack Nicklason. Despite extensive searches, no trace of her has been found. The main suspect in her disappearance, Nicklason, was arrested for the rape of a 19-year-old in October that year and committed suicide, leaving many questions unanswered.Maye's disappearance remains one of Australia's enduring mysteries, fed by small town gossip and uncertain sources. Efforts by law enforcement and appeals for information continue, but her case remains unsolved, leaving her family and friends without closure.Join Holly and Tumut-area expert Matthew as they look into the case, where it went wrong, ad who might have been responsible for diverting police attention from the more probable killing ground.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

In 1969, man walked on the moon.In 2000, someone made a film about the unsung heroes. NASA's Apollo 11 mission, featuring astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin, successfully landed on the moon. Australians played a crucial role in this historic event, with the Parkes Observatory and Honeysuckle Creek tracking station providing vital communication support. These facilities broadcast Armstrong's first steps to the world, symbolizing global unity and the shared human spirit of exploration.Join Holly and Matthew as they contextualise both the film and the event, their influences on their respective histories, and world around them. Bonus conspiracy theories!acBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

In 1977, Griffith-based anti-drug campaigner Don Mackay disappeared, and despite strong suspicions of mafia involvement, his body was never found. The case remains unresolved, an intriguing mystery that continues to haunt and captivate those fascinated by the dark underworld of organized crime.Will he ever be found? That's something only the fishes can answer. Join Holly & Matthew as they close out Year 6 with a close look at the case, the suspects, and the trade.Sources used: Donald Bruce (Don) Mackay (1933–1977) | C. A. Gregory | Australian Dictionary of Biography | 2000 | Volume 15 | https://adb.anu.edu.au/biography/mackay-donald-bruce-don-10976Drug case: $1m reward plan | The Canberra Times | 26 Jul 1977 | Page 3 | https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/110856526 Drugs truth will come out: Wran | The Canberra Times | 22 Jul 1977 | Page 1 | https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/110855965Forty years after Donald Mackay's murder, the Calabrian mafia still thrives | Lesley Hicks | Sydney Morning Herald | 14 Jul 2017 | https://www.smh.com.au/opinion/organised-crime-thrives-40-years-after-the-donald-mackay-murder-20170709-gx7sg4.htmlHeartache has no end for family of Donald Mackay | Tony Wright | The Age | April 30, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20110510102950/http://www.theage.com.au/national/heartache-has-no-end-for-family-of-donald-mackay-20110429-1e0if.htmlInquest to be held on Mackay | The Canberra Times | 12 Dec 1981 | Page 3 | https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/126864914James 'Machine Gun' Bazley dies with his lips sealed over Donald Mackay murder | Paige Cockburn | 2 Nov 2018 | https://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-11-02/donald-mackay-murder-james-bazley-dead/10458946Mackay case prompts drugs commission call | The Canberra Times| Tue 19 Jul 1977 | Page 6 | https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/110855547Mackay was dumped in river, police told | The Canberra Times | 16 Jun 1983 | Page 3 | https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/131849589New clues in Donald Mackay murder case | Mark Morris, Clementine Cuneo and Leigh Van Den Broeke | Adelaide Now | 19 Jun 2013 | https://www.adelaidenow.com.au/news/national/new-clues-in-donald-mackay-murder-case/news-story/ee4e160ba59520c0860276cf6bc1c8cfNotification Of The Appointment Of Trustees Under Section 26 Of The Crown Lands Consolidation Act, 1913 | Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales | 14 Apr 1972 [Issue No.40] | Page 1339 | https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/220140256Royal Commission into Drug Trafficking [Woodward Royal Commission] | State Records Archives Investigator | Agency Detail | https://web.archive.org/web/20120411044444/http://investigator.records.nsw.gov.au/Entity.aspx?Path=%5CAgency%5C2125RSL head warns of 'mob rule on grand scale' | The Canberra Times | 20 Jul 1977 | Page 10 | https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/11085578 Tale of the Mafia among the vineyards - in Australia | Kathy Marks | The Independent (UK) | 27 Feb 2009 | https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/australasia/tale-of-the-mafia-among-the-vineyards-in-australia-1634115.htmlTwisting trail that led to Mackay's murderer | Sydney Morning Herald | Page 7 | 17 Apr 1986 | https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=xrcyAAAAIBAJ&sjid=eOgDAAAAIBAJ&pg=4704%2C607758Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.

When the Pope and the Toad died 2 months apart in 1963/64, chaos overtook the Melbourne arm of the Honorable Society. Men were shot in the streets, in their driveways, and in their beds as the search for the new heads of power came to a close.Join Holly & Matthew as they look into the series of shotgun killings known as the Victoria Market Murders, and their impact on the peace of the city.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.