Forgotten Australia

Australia talks about the first federal election campaign, weeps about the death of beloved Queen Victoria and laughs at a visionary’s plan for a giant statue that’ll rise over Sydney Harbour. Plus: our most famous astronomer mocks Nikola Tesla's "messages from Mars", our most famous meteorologist makes like Elon Musk by firing rockets into the heavens, and our most famous hangman is news for setting a record with his noose. This episode features a short interview with Rachel Franks, historian and author of An Uncommon Hangman: The Life and Deaths of Robert 'Nosey Bob' Howard. (There's also a full-length bonus Rachel Franks interview episode for Apple and Patreon supporters.)For a free trial that will give you access to ad-free, early and bonus episodes:Patreon: patreon.com/forgottenaustraliaApple: apple.co/forgottenaustraliaTo buy An Uncommon Hangman by Rachel Franks:https://www.booktopia.com.au/an-uncommon-hangman-rachel-franks/book/9781742237343.htmlAnd my books:They’ll Never Hold Me:https://www.booktopia.com.au/they-ll-never-hold-me-michael-adams/book/9781923046474.htmlThe Murder Squad:https://www.booktopia.com.au/the-murder-squad-michael-adams/book/9781923046504.htmlHanging Ned Kelly:https://www.booktopia.com.au/hanging-ned-kelly-michael-adams/book/9781922992185.htmlAustralia’s Sweetheart:https://www.booktopia.com.au/australia-s-sweetheart-michael-adams/book/9780733640292.htmlEmail: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the third week of January 1975, the ‘The Sensual Seventies’ live up to the label when 2JJ plays a banned song about bonking as its first-ever broadcast while sex documentary The Love Epidemic erupts in cinemas and causes a 'porn' controversy. Plus: a shocking road toll, weird Darwin fundraisers, power blackouts threaten Number 96, Gough brings home some art and a nudist cop faces his court comeuppance.For a free trial that will give you access to ad-free, early and bonus episodes:Patreon: patreon.com/forgottenaustraliaApple: apple.co/forgottenaustraliaTo buy They’ll Never Hold Me:https://www.booktopia.com.au/they-ll-never-hold-me-michael-adams/book/9781923046474.htmlThe Murder Squad:https://www.booktopia.com.au/the-murder-squad-michael-adams/book/9781923046504.htmlHanging Ned Kelly:https://www.booktopia.com.au/hanging-ned-kelly-michael-adams/book/9781922992185.htmlAustralia’s Sweetheart:https://www.booktopia.com.au/australia-s-sweetheart-michael-adams/book/9780733640292.htmlEmail: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On New Year’s Eve 1921, Australia was shocked by a Melbourne child murder. Desperate to boost the Herald’s stagnant circulation, newly appointed editor Keith Murdoch ran sensational coverage that helped to send an innocent man to the gallows. Forty years later, when Australia was shocked by a Sydney child murder, Rupert Murdoch, new editor and owner of the lagging Daily Mirror, followed in his father’s footsteps and laid the foundations for the media empire that’d reshape the world. For a free trial that will give you access to ad-free, early and bonus episodes:Patreon: patreon.com/forgottenaustraliaApple: apple.co/forgottenaustraliaTo buy They’ll Never Hold Me:https://www.booktopia.com.au/they-ll-never-hold-me-michael-adams/book/9781923046474.htmlThe Murder Squad:https://www.booktopia.com.au/the-murder-squad-michael-adams/book/9781923046504.htmlHanging Ned Kelly:https://www.booktopia.com.au/hanging-ned-kelly-michael-adams/book/9781922992185.htmlAustralia’s Sweetheart:https://www.booktopia.com.au/australia-s-sweetheart-michael-adams/book/9780733640292.html Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Will the Chinese invade Taiwan? Is nuclear war with Russia inevitable? While it sounds like these questions are ripped from today's headlines, these were actually the biggest issues in the world in the second week of 1950. Plus, closer to home: the RSL’s purges Commies but embraces Pokies; a female playwright tackles white Australian attitudes to Aboriginal people, and a giant eagle attacks a woman and her daughter… right in the heart of Kings Cross!For a free trial that will give you access to ad-free, early and bonus episodes:Patreon: patreon.com/forgottenaustraliaApple: apple.co/forgottenaustraliaTo buy They’ll Never Hold Me:https://www.booktopia.com.au/they-ll-never-hold-me-michael-adams/book/9781923046474.htmlThe Murder Squad:https://www.booktopia.com.au/the-murder-squad-michael-adams/book/9781923046504.htmlHanging Ned Kelly:https://www.booktopia.com.au/hanging-ned-kelly-michael-adams/book/9781922992185.htmlAustralia’s Sweetheart:https://www.booktopia.com.au/australia-s-sweetheart-michael-adams/book/9780733640292.htmlEmail: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In July 1960, Australia was shocked by a new breed of criminal desperado – a gun-wielding and bomb-toting skyjacker.For a free trial that will give you access to ad-free, early and bonus episodes:Patreon: patreon.com/forgottenaustraliaApple: apple.co/forgottenaustraliaTo buy They’ll Never Hold Me:https://www.booktopia.com.au/they-ll-never-hold-me-michael-adams/book/9781923046474.htmlThe Murder Squad:https://www.booktopia.com.au/the-murder-squad-michael-adams/book/9781923046504.htmlHanging Ned Kelly:https://www.booktopia.com.au/hanging-ned-kelly-michael-adams/book/9781922992185.htmlAustralia’s Sweetheart:https://www.booktopia.com.au/australia-s-sweetheart-michael-adams/book/9780733640292.htmlEmail: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Happy New Year! We kick off 2025 by adding a new format in which we look at a different week from each year in the 20th Century. And what better place to start than 100 years ago? In the first week of January 1925, Australia was wowed not only by a world record test cricket attendance at the MCG but also by a giant leap forwards in live radio coverage. Also this week: a Melbourne ghost mystery, dark accusations made against a future prime minister, and the sensational disappearance of national celebrity Jack DeGaris (pictured). For a free trial that will give you access to ad-free, early and bonus episodes:Patreon: patreon.com/forgottenaustraliaApple: apple.co/forgottenaustraliaTo buy They’ll Never Hold Me:https://www.booktopia.com.au/they-ll-never-hold-me-michael-adams/book/9781923046474.htmlThe Murder Squad:https://www.booktopia.com.au/the-murder-squad-michael-adams/book/9781923046504.htmlHanging Ned Kelly:https://www.booktopia.com.au/hanging-ned-kelly-michael-adams/book/9781922992185.htmlAustralia’s Sweetheart:https://www.booktopia.com.au/australia-s-sweetheart-michael-adams/book/9780733640292.htmlEmail: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In 1973 in Sydney, a delusional young criminal and his band of disciples set out to ‘Kill Seven’ as a way to resurrect a dead child.For a free trial that will give you access to ad-free, early and bonus episodes:Patreon: patreon.com/forgottenaustraliaApple: apple.co/forgottenaustraliaTo buy They’ll Never Hold Me:https://www.booktopia.com.au/they-ll-never-hold-me-michael-adams/book/9781923046474.htmlThe Murder Squad:https://www.booktopia.com.au/the-murder-squad-michael-adams/book/9781923046504.htmlHanging Ned Kelly:https://www.booktopia.com.au/hanging-ned-kelly-michael-adams/book/9781922992185.htmlAustralia’s Sweetheart:https://www.booktopia.com.au/australia-s-sweetheart-michael-adams/book/9780733640292.htmlEmail: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the first of the Summer Shorts series, we step back to the day in 1974 that underworld serial killer Stewart John Regan, known as ‘The Magician’ for his trick of making people disappear, met his own bloody fate on a Sydney street.To support Forgotten Australia:Patreon: patreon.com/forgottenaustraliaApple: apple.co/forgottenaustraliaEmail: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Recently, Nine radio network host Simon Owens interviewed me for his Saturday night show, which is broadcast on Australian east coast stations, including 2GB, 3AW and 4BC. With Simon’s kind permission, here’s the interview, which covers my books They’ll Never Hold Me, The Murder Squad and Hanging Ned Kelly, as well as delving a little into the evolution of Forgotten Australia. We also talk about my writing influences, my career in television and, um, the year I spent watching one bad movie every day. So, if you've ever wanted to get to know your Forgotten Australia creator and host a little better, here's your chance. If not, skip it and instead listen to the new Summer Shorts episode Curtains for the Magician.To support Forgotten Australia:Patreon: patreon.com/forgottenaustraliaApple: apple.co/forgottenaustraliaEmail: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In 1954 popular Sydney model Shirley Beiger went on trial for the shooting murder of her boyfriend, with the already sensational proceedings made wilder by her outbursts, a media frenzy, the appearance of a crazed mystic, the accused's unruly cheer squad and a confused verdict. Next month, the Sydney Festival premieres The Model Murder, based on this scandalous case. In the meantime, here's a reprise of the 2019 Forgotten Australia episode that first explored Shirley's story in all its strange and colourful detail.Check out my new book, They’ll Never Hold Mehttps://affirmpress.com.au/author/61917Support Forgotten Australia:Apple - http://apple.co/forgottenaustraliaPatreon - https://www.patreon.com/ForgottenAustraliaEmail: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Seventy years ago – in 1954 – glamorous Sydney model Shirley Beiger shot her lover dead outside a city nightclub. But why did she kill him — and what punishment would she face?Next month, the Sydney Festival premieres The Model Murder, based on this scandalous case. In the meantime, here's a reprise of the 2019 Forgotten Australia episode that first explored Shirley's story in all its strange and colourful detail.Check out my new book, They’ll Never Hold Mehttps://affirmpress.com.au/author/61917Support Forgotten Australia:Apple - http://apple.co/forgottenaustraliaPatreon - https://www.patreon.com/ForgottenAustraliaEmail: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In April 1974, teenage cousins Yvonne Waters and Raelene Eaton went to a surfside pub in Perth to enjoy a Sunday session. They were never seen again, victims of an unknown killer or killers. In recent years, veteran journalist and television producer Melenie Ambrose has investigated this haunting cold case. In part two of this two-part interview episode, Melenie tell us about the police’s murder suspects, her recent discoveries of vital new evidence and her hopes that there might still be a breakthrough that’ll bring the killer or killers to justice.Watch Vanishing Cousins at:https://7plus.com.au/vanishing-cousins-evil-by-the-beachCrimestoppers 1800 333 000 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In April 1974, teenage cousins Yvonne Waters and Raelene Eaton went to a surfside pub in Perth to enjoy a Sunday session. They were never seen again, victims of an unknown killer or killers. In recent years, veteran journalist and television producer Melenie Ambrose has investigated this haunting cold case. In part one of this two-part interview episode, Melenie discusses the lead-up to the disappearance of the girls and why the police didn’t take their families’ fears of foul play seriously.Watch Vanishing Cousins at:https://7plus.com.au/vanishing-cousins-evil-by-the-beach Crimestoppers 1800 333 000 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

They’ll Never Hold Me is in bookstores now. Michael sat down with Meshel Laurie of the Australian True Crime podcast to talk all things Kevin John Simmonds. Part Two covers Simmo’s 1959 crime spree and the first few weeks of what was the largest manhunt in Australian history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

They’ll Never Hold Me is in bookstores now. Michael sat down with Meshel Laurie of the Australian True Crime podcast to talk all things Kevin John Simmonds. Part One covers Simmo from his birth during the Great Depression to his 1959 decision to become an armed robber. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Please enjoy a second audiobook extract that continues the story of young Kevin John Simmonds, as he grows up in Griffith, grapples with the lure of criminality and gets a preview of his life in the saga of legendary Sydney characters Darcy Dugan and Ray ‘the Gunner’ Kelly.Buy the full audiobook here:https://rbmediaglobal.com/audiobook/9781004181971/Buy the paperback:Dymockshttps://www.dymocks.com.auBig Whttps://www.bigw.com.au/product/they-ll-never-hold-me-by-michael-adams/p/6000238?srsltid=AfmBOoqf5VwhCrlNow0Drn0-IcoViT5ttqXdXsyX1iacELJzuYvEW8MvBooktopiahttps://www.booktopia.com.au/they-ll-never-hold-me-michael-adams/book/9781923046474.html?srsltid=AfmBOople0hNKrDJTY7W6ODeKDEamCMNoZEdeWN2J6b1VK3oIO90YQNuReadingshttps://www.readings.com.au/product/9781923046474/theyll-never-hold-me--michael-adams--2024--9781923046474Harry Hartoghttps://www.harryhartog.com.au/products/theyll-never-hold-me-michael-adams-9781923046474?srsltid=AfmBOopD52fSFqdACnutyJF-BFwD76ZFmS5aAfZbFc6B-zaLCm4YKTpS Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

My new book, They'll Never Hold Me, which chronicles the life, times and crimes of Long Bay Gaol escapee Kevin John Simmonds, has just been released as an audio book. I'm pleased to present this exclusive excerpt, which comprises the prologue and first two chapters.The full version is available right now via this product page, which offers all the key places to buy They'll Never Hold Me.https://rbmediaglobal.com/audiobook/9781004181971/Email me: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Who was this good guy with a gun? We delve into life of American cowboy Albert “Arizona” Ryan, who became a celebrity in 1919 in Australia after killing a man to end a Sydney siege. Hear how Arizona, like Dirty Harry, had a history of trigger-happy vigilantism, and how, like Dirty John, his creepy marriage to a wealthy woman came to a violent end. Check out my new book, They’ll Never Hold Mehttps://affirmpress.com.au/author/61917Support Forgotten Australia:Apple - http://apple.co/forgottenaustraliaPatreon - https://www.patreon.com/ForgottenAustraliaEmail: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In 1919, in the Sydney slum of Surry Hills, a Chinese gunman shot more than a dozen people, triggering a dramatic police siege that was only ended by the violent intervention of a lone American vigilante. But who was this self-styled cowboy with the six-shooter? Check out my new book, They’ll Never Hold Mehttps://affirmpress.com.au/author/61917Support Forgotten Australia:Apple - http://apple.co/forgottenaustraliaPatreon - https://www.patreon.com/ForgottenAustraliaEmail: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With their suspect in custody, D.C. detectives still can’t celebrate because in Washington in 1972 seven out of every ten murderers go free. Forty years after the verdicts in these murder trials, the FBI will make a bombshell forensic revelation to cast doubt on whether justice was done.Check out my new book, They’ll Never Hold Mehttps://affirmpress.com.au/author/61917Support Forgotten Australia:Apple - http://apple.co/forgottenaustraliaPatreon - https://www.patreon.com/ForgottenAustraliaEmail: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With another Washington woman murdered in identical circumstances to Sherry and Sharan, D.C. detectives finally have a suspect – but can they find the disturbed man who stalks the D.C. streets, hides in apartments and calls himself ‘Goliath’?Check out my new book, They’ll Never Hold Mehttps://affirmpress.com.au/author/61917Support Forgotten Australia:Apple - http://apple.co/forgottenaustraliaPatreon - https://www.patreon.com/ForgottenAustraliaEmail: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Despite the best efforts of D.C. detectives and Sydney cops – including Senior Constable Roger Rogerson – Sherry and Sharan’s killer remains at large. When a breakthrough comes, it’ll be in the worst possible circumstances.To pre-order They'll Never Hold Me:https://affirmpress.com.au/browse/book/Michael-Adams-They%27ll-Never-Hold-Me-9781923046474To support the show:Apple - http://apple.co/forgottenaustraliaPatreon - https://www.patreon.com/ForgottenAustraliaCheck out my new book, They’ll Never Hold Mehttps://affirmpress.com.au/author/61917Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sherry Frahm and Sharan Tapp settle into living and working in Washington. But it’s dangerous being a counter girl in a McDonald’s during D.C.’s ever-bloodier wave of senseless murders.The five-part miniseries is based on information unearthed in Australian government archives, US court transcripts, American and Australian historic newspaper articles – and on recent interviews with two family members.More than a true crime deep dive, this miniseries remembers two fearless Australian women whose fates have been overlooked while Billy and Sonia McMahon’s ‘sexy’ White House shenanigans became part of pop culture history.To Live & Die in D.C. poses still relevant questions about sexism, racism, crime and justice – and who we remember and why.To pre-order They'll Never Hold Me:https://affirmpress.com.au/browse/book/Michael-Adams-They%27ll-Never-Hold-Me-9781923046474To support the show:Apple - http://apple.co/forgottenaustraliaPatreon - https://www.patreon.com/ForgottenAustraliaCheck out my new book, They’ll Never Hold Mehttps://affirmpress.com.au/author/61917Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In November 1971, at the exact moment that Prime Minister Billy McMahon’s wife Sonia stepped out in her infamously revealing dress at a White House dinner, Australian embassy officials in Washington were thrust into the first crucial hours of a serial killer investigation. Two young women had just been found murdered in a nearby apartment and D.C. homicide detectives believed the victims were from Down Under. In a race against time, American and Australian cops and diplomats would have to work together to identify the maniac before he stuck again.To Live & Die in D.C. reveals - for the very first time - an extraordinary instance of Australian true crime and Australian political history colliding during a shocking murder wave that was engulfing not only the American capitol but all of the United States.The five-part miniseries is based on information unearthed in Australian government archives, US court transcripts, American and Australian historic newspaper articles – and on recent interviews with two family members.More than a true crime deep dive, this miniseries remembers two fearless Australian women whose fates have been overlooked while Billy and Sonia McMahon’s ‘sexy’ White House shenanigans became part of pop culture history.To Live & Die in D.C. poses still relevant questions about sexism, racism, crime and justice – and who we remember and why.To pre-order They'll Never Hold Me:https://affirmpress.com.au/browse/book/Michael-Adams-They%27ll-Never-Hold-Me-9781923046474To support the show:Apple - http://apple.co/forgottenaustraliaPatreon - https://www.patreon.com/ForgottenAustraliaEmail: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How was the 1976 case of armed robber Phillip Western a prototype for the “Green Light” that’d soon be given to Neddy Smith? Continuing our in-depth interview, veteran journalist Neil Mercer explains how Roger Rogerson perverting the legal system for profit resulted in a forgotten murder and set the scene for future bloodbaths. Be sure to read Neil Mercer’s new book, The Kingpin and the Crooked Cop: The Definitive Inside Story of Neddy Smith and Roger Rogerson, Partners in Crime.Buy it here: https://www.allenandunwin.com/browse/book/Neil-Mercer-Kingpin-and-the-Crooked-Cop-9781760879952Support Forgotten Australia:Apple - http://apple.co/forgottenaustraliaPatreon - https://www.patreon.com/ForgottenAustraliaCheck out my books:The Murder Squadhttps://www.booktopia.com.au/the-murder-squad-michael-adams/book/9781922863836.htmlHanging Ned Kellyhttps://www.booktopia.com.au/hanging-ned-kelly-michael-adams/book/9781922992185.htmlAustralia’s Sweethearthttps://www.booktopia.com.au/australia-s-sweetheart-michael-adams/book/9780733640292.html Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How did a hero detective become Australia’s most notoriously corrupt killer cop? In an in-depth conversation, veteran journalist Neil Mercer talks about the Rogerson he interviewed and investigated, starting with their first meeting in 1982. Be sure to read Neil Mercer’s new book, The Kingpin and the Crooked Cop: The Definitive Inside Story of Neddy Smith and Roger Rogerson, Partners in Crime.Buy it here: https://www.allenandunwin.com/browse/book/Neil-Mercer-Kingpin-and-the-Crooked-Cop-9781760879952Support Forgotten Australia:Apple - http://apple.co/forgottenaustraliaPatreon - https://www.patreon.com/ForgottenAustraliaCheck out my books:The Murder Squadhttps://www.booktopia.com.au/the-murder-squad-michael-adams/book/9781922863836.htmlHanging Ned Kellyhttps://www.booktopia.com.au/hanging-ned-kelly-michael-adams/book/9781922992185.htmlAustralia’s Sweethearthttps://www.booktopia.com.au/australia-s-sweetheart-michael-adams/book/9780733640292.html Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A new murder committed by a 17-year-old brings the tally of boys on Death Row to ten. From April 1936 onwards, the NSW government has to decide who’ll live and who’ll die. With time running out in one case, they rush towards a ‘ghastly mistake’, while in another what they decide will lead to another murder more than 50 years later in Queensland.To support the show:Apple - http://apple.co/forgottenaustraliaPatreon - https://www.patreon.com/ForgottenAustraliaCheck out my books:(there’s a new one…)They’ll Never Hold Me @ Dymockshttps://www.dymocks.com.au/book/theyll-never-hold-me-by-michael-adams-9781923046474Hanging Ned Kelly @ Dymockshttps://www.dymocks.com.au/book/hanging-ned-kelly-by-michael-adams-9781922992185The Murder Squad @ Dymockshttps://www.dymocks.com.au/book/the-murder-squad-by-michael-adams-9781923046504Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In March 1936, a young Italian woman testifies against her seven rapists in open court, speaking bravely against their claims she’d consented to their violent group assault.To support the show:Apple - http://apple.co/forgottenaustraliaPatreon - https://www.patreon.com/ForgottenAustraliaCheck out my books:(there’s a new one…)They’ll Never Hold Me @ Dymockshttps://www.dymocks.com.au/book/theyll-never-hold-me-by-michael-adams-9781923046474Hanging Ned Kelly @ Dymockshttps://www.dymocks.com.au/book/hanging-ned-kelly-by-michael-adams-9781922992185The Murder Squad @ Dymockshttps://www.dymocks.com.au/book/the-murder-squad-by-michael-adams-9781923046504Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the lazy days between Christmas and New Year in Wagga Wagga in 1935, a 17-year-old boy spends the festive season indulging in romantic fakery, prepared to defend his deception with cold-blooded murder.To support the show:Apple - http://apple.co/forgottenaustraliaPatreon - https://www.patreon.com/ForgottenAustraliaCheck out my books:(there’s a new one…)They’ll Never Hold Me @ Dymockshttps://www.dymocks.com.au/book/theyll-never-hold-me-by-michael-adams-9781923046474Hanging Ned Kelly @ Dymockshttps://www.dymocks.com.au/book/hanging-ned-kelly-by-michael-adams-9781922992185The Murder Squad @ Dymockshttps://www.dymocks.com.au/book/the-murder-squad-by-michael-adams-9781923046504Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Another young criminal faces the ultimate penalty after being convicted of shooting a man during a Sydney railway robbery. But is the Hooded Bandit about to be hanged because the government is making a ghastly legal mistake?To support the show:Apple - http://apple.co/forgottenaustraliaPatreon - https://www.patreon.com/ForgottenAustraliaCheck out my books:(there’s a new one…)They’ll Never Hold Me @ Dymockshttps://www.dymocks.com.au/book/theyll-never-hold-me-by-michael-adams-9781923046474Hanging Ned Kelly @ Dymockshttps://www.dymocks.com.au/book/hanging-ned-kelly-by-michael-adams-9781922992185The Murder Squad @ Dymockshttps://www.dymocks.com.au/book/the-murder-squad-by-michael-adams-9781923046504Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With Monty Henwood’s 17-year-old alleged killer in custody, police are amazed by the youth’s calm confessions… even though they might see him sentenced to death.*Part two of The Boys of Death Row. The whole miniseries is available ad-free and early to supporters. Parts three to six on general release over the next three weeks.*To support the show:Apple - http://apple.co/forgottenaustraliaPatreon - https://www.patreon.com/ForgottenAustraliaCheck out my books:(there’s a new one…)They’ll Never Hold Me @ Dymockshttps://www.dymocks.com.au/book/theyll-never-hold-me-by-michael-adams-9781923046474Hanging Ned Kelly @ Dymockshttps://www.dymocks.com.au/book/hanging-ned-kelly-by-michael-adams-9781922992185The Murder Squad @ Dymockshttps://www.dymocks.com.au/book/the-murder-squad-by-michael-adams-9781923046504Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On a Monday morning in November 1935, a battered man is found dead beside railway tracks in the Blue Mountains. The victim is revered and his death is a mystery. But Sydney police, led by murder expert Detective-Sergeant Tom McRae, are soon on the trail of a young killer.*Part one of The Boys of Death Row. The whole miniseries is available ad-free and early to supporters. Parts two to six on general release over the next three weeks.*To support the show:Apple - http://apple.co/forgottenaustraliaPatreon - https://www.patreon.com/ForgottenAustraliaCheck out my books:(there’s a new one…)They’ll Never Hold Me @ Dymockshttps://www.dymocks.com.au/book/theyll-never-hold-me-by-michael-adams-9781923046474Hanging Ned Kelly @ Dymockshttps://www.dymocks.com.au/book/hanging-ned-kelly-by-michael-adams-9781922992185The Murder Squad @ Dymockshttps://www.dymocks.com.au/book/the-murder-squad-by-michael-adams-9781923046504Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Originally released in 2019, this episode tells the story of a Saturday night stick-up in Sydney that went very, very wrong – leaving a mystery that has endured for nearly a century.My upcoming miniseries will include the similar case of “The Hooded Bandit”, along with other crimes that shocked Australia in 1935-1936. It'll be with you very soon!To support the show:Apple - http://apple.co/forgottenaustraliaPatreon - https://www.patreon.com/ForgottenAustraliaEmail: [email protected] out my books:Hanging Ned Kelly @ Dymockshttps://www.dymocks.com.au/book/hanging-ned-kelly-by-michael-adams-9781922992185The Murder Squad @ Dymockshttps://www.dymocks.com.au/book/the-murder-squad-by-michael-adams-9781923046504 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

One of Australia’s most respected journalists tells us about his early career on Sydney tabloid The Sun and how he got an exclusive interview with The Forgotten Man to ask the question: ‘Did you do it?’To support the show:Apple - http://apple.co/forgottenaustraliaPatreon - https://www.patreon.com/ForgottenAustraliaEmail: [email protected] out my books:Hanging Ned Kelly @ Dymockshttps://www.dymocks.com.au/book/hanging-ned-kelly-by-michael-adams-9781922992185The Murder Squad @ Dymockshttps://www.dymocks.com.au/book/the-murder-squad-by-michael-adams-9781923046504 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The man accused of John Smillie’s murder finally has his day in court. But the verdict won’t settle the haunting question of his guilt or innocence.To support the show:Apple - http://apple.co/forgottenaustraliaPatreon - https://www.patreon.com/ForgottenAustraliaEmail: [email protected] out my books:Hanging Ned Kelly @ Dymockshttps://www.dymocks.com.au/book/hanging-ned-kelly-by-michael-adams-9781922992185The Murder Squad @ Dymockshttps://www.dymocks.com.au/book/the-murder-squad-by-michael-adams-9781923046504 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Following new information, received six months after the murder of John Smillie, detectives from Sydney’s CIB swoop on their suspect. What happens next is decried as a travesty of justice.To support the show:Apple - http://apple.co/forgottenaustraliaPatreon - https://www.patreon.com/ForgottenAustraliaEmail: [email protected] out my books:Hanging Ned Kelly @ Dymockshttps://www.dymocks.com.au/book/hanging-ned-kelly-by-michael-adams-9781922992185The Murder Squad @ Dymockshttps://www.dymocks.com.au/book/the-murder-squad-by-michael-adams-9781923046504 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In September 1935, John Smillie was shot dead in his taxi in western Sydney. Who had murdered this war veteran, loving husband and doting father? Was it a robbery gone wrong? A maniac with a grudge against cabbies? Or was he the victim of mistaken identity in a vicious gangland war?The Forgotten Man is an incredible tale of murder and mystery, fact and fantasy, insanity and injustice, which unfolded over nearly half a century. This four-part miniseries concludes with an unexpected revelation from one of Australia’s most respected journalists, who joins us with his recollections of covering this story early in his career. To support the show and get access to all episodes ad-free, get access to bonus shows and get a show shout-out:Apple - http://apple.co/forgottenaustraliaPatreon - https://www.patreon.com/ForgottenAustraliaEmail: [email protected] out my books:Hanging Ned Kelly @ Dymockshttps://www.dymocks.com.au/book/hanging-ned-kelly-by-michael-adams-9781922992185The Murder Squad @ Dymockshttps://www.dymocks.com.au/book/the-murder-squad-by-michael-adams-9781923046504 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From 1946, Sydney’s Leonard Lawson was a hero to kids for creating the comic book The Lone Avenger. But in reality the young artist was a psychopathic villain responsible for crimes far more terrible than anything in his stories. For five decades, Lawson would outrage the nation by destroying innocent lives and making a mockery of the law’s ability to control violent offenders. I’ve re-released The Comic Book Killer in anticipation of my new miniseries, The Forgotten Man, which will be out from next week. Not only does The Comic Book Killer fit with this season’s theme of Crimes That Shocked Australia, it also crosses over with The Forgotten Man in strange and significant ways.To support Forgotten Australia:Apple - http://apple.co/forgottenaustraliaPatreon - https://www.patreon.com/ForgottenAustraliaEmail: [email protected] out my books:Hanging Ned Kelly @ Dymockshttps://www.dymocks.com.au/book/hanging-ned-kelly-by-michael-adams-9781922992185The Murder Squad @ Dymockshttps://www.dymocks.com.au/book/the-murder-squad-by-michael-adams-9781923046504 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A year after he's 'disappeared' into a solitary cage at Pentridge, Weachurch makes a last stab at freedom... and leaves behind a haunting legacy of resistance to injustice.Email: [email protected] out my books:Hanging Ned Kelly @ Dymockshttps://www.dymocks.com.au/book/hanging-ned-kelly-by-michael-adams-9781922992185The Murder Squad @ Dymockshttps://www.dymocks.com.au/book/the-murder-squad-by-michael-adams-9781923046504 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With Weachurch’s pleas for justice ignored and obstructed as he has punishments piled upon him illegally, he takes desperate action against him enemies again... and again... and again.This never-before-told story is based on extensive research in archival files. It’s made possible by Ancestry’s sponsorship and by supporter contributions.Apple - http://apple.co/forgottenaustraliaPatreon - https://www.patreon.com/ForgottenAustraliaEmail: [email protected] out my books:Hanging Ned Kelly @ Dymockshttps://www.dymocks.com.au/book/hanging-ned-kelly-by-michael-adams-9781922992185The Murder Squad @ Dymockshttps://www.dymocks.com.au/book/the-murder-squad-by-michael-adams-9781923046504 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With Weachurch’s pleas for justice ignored and obstructed as he has punishments piled upon him illegally, he takes desperate action against him enemies again... and again... and again.This never-before-told story is based on extensive research in archival files. It’s made possible by Ancestry’s sponsorship and by supporter contributions.Apple - http://apple.co/forgottenaustraliaPatreon - https://www.patreon.com/ForgottenAustraliaEmail: [email protected] out my books:Hanging Ned Kelly @ Dymockshttps://www.dymocks.com.au/book/hanging-ned-kelly-by-michael-adams-9781922992185The Murder Squad @ Dymockshttps://www.dymocks.com.au/book/the-murder-squad-by-michael-adams-9781923046504 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A century before Mark ‘Chopper’ Read became infamous in Pentridge, a convict named Weachurch struck terror into that prison’s warders and from behind its bluestone walls he loomed large as an Australian boogeyman. Weachurch’s attacks were so bloodthirsty that he was dubbed a ‘human tiger’ – a ‘wehrwolf’ – and he was kept in a cage in between court trials for attempted murder. If convicted, he faced the hangman. But Weachurch risked the noose because he was a rebel with a cause: he wanted the public to hear about his illegal detention and the barbaric treatment he suffered ‘outside the regulations’.To some he was a monster. To others a martyr. To himself he was unbreakable.This never-before-told story is based on extensive research in archival files. It’s made possible by Ancestry’s sponsorship and by supporter contributions.Parts 2 and 3 will be on general release soon.They’re available now to Apple and Patreon supporters:Apple - http://apple.co/forgottenaustraliaPatreon - https://www.patreon.com/ForgottenAustraliaEmail: [email protected] out my books:Hanging Ned Kelly @ Dymockshttps://www.dymocks.com.au/book/hanging-ned-kelly-by-michael-adams-9781922992185The Murder Squad @ Dymockshttps://www.dymocks.com.au/book/the-murder-squad-by-michael-adams-9781923046504 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The 1931 murder of young Adelaide wife and mother Mary Edson shocked Australia.But despite this crime’s gruesome details, it was even then a depressingly familiar sort of outrage committed by a depressingly familiar sort of offender.Nearly 100 years later, not enough has changed.1800RESPECT is the national domestic, family and sexual violence counselling, information and support service.If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, domestic, family or sexual violence, call 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit www.1800RESPECT.org.au for online chat and video call services. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With Kingsgrove people reeling from the outrage committed on Paterson Avenue, Sydney detectives swarm the streets to piece together what happened, who was responsible and why the madman struck at beloved citizens.Support Forgotten Australia:Apple - http://apple.co/forgottenaustraliaPatreon - https://www.patreon.com/ForgottenAustralia Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In 1956, Sydney’s usually sedate southern suburbs were stalked by not one but two bloodthirsty men. While the Kingsgrove Slasher’s reign of terror would last years but result in no deaths, the Meticulous Maniac’s outrage was far shorter and far more deadly. Yet in the wake of his violence, victims were to react with extraordinary grace.Part Two will be released soon. It’s available now early and ad-free to Patreon and Apple Supporters. You can hear it with a free trial:Support Forgotten Australia:Apple - http://apple.co/forgottenaustraliaPatreon - https://www.patreon.com/ForgottenAustraliaEmail: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jack Brown — murderer of three people, supposedly inspired by reading Deadwood Dick pulp novels — went to trial in October 1906. But could a boy who reckoned he’d slaughtered his best friends in the name of a genocidal revolution for White Australia actually be sane, be convicted and be hanged? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Following the supposedly Deadwood Dick-inspired murders committed by Jimmy and Joe Governor, Jack Underwood and Thomas Quinlan, in July 1906 Australia was rocked by a new outrage attributed to “pernicious literature”: the brutal killing and mutilation of three people at German Creek on the NSW north coast. The perpetrator was young Jack Brown. But he said his motivation wasn’t to be a pulp novel hero. Instead, Jack wanted to start a genocidal revolution in the name of White Australia. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Deadwood Dick was the first pop culture superhero – 50 years before Batman — and he was the first such character to spark widespread moral condemnation as a "cause" of crime. In Australia from the 1890s, Deadwood Dick was blamed for everything, from truancy to... mass murder. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Having escaped prison, fled interstate and joined the army under yet another new name, George Blunderfield seeks reinvention and redemption on the Western Front — but his true nature compels him to commit his most atrocious crimes yet. First released in 2021, this episode is re-released as part of Season 8’s ‘Crimes That Shocked Australia’ Brand-new episodes coming in May. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After committing a sickening outrage in the first weeks of 1900, George Blunderfield serves a relatively short jail sentence. When he's set free he sheds his identity but can’t help but follow the nature that causes him to hurt those who only want to help him. Part 3 will be released next week. But you can hear it now ad-free as a podcast supporter. First released in 2021, this episode is re-released as part of Season 8’s ‘Crimes That Shocked Australia’ Brand-new episodes coming in May. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.