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Weird Crap in Australia
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© Holly & Matthew Soall
Description
Welcome to "Weird Crap in Australia," a podcast hosted by Holly and Matthew, a husband and wife team with a passion for all things strange and unusual in the land down under.
Each episode, Holly, a trained historian, and Matthew, a pop-culture enthusiast, dive into the weird and wacky aspects of Australian history and society. From the colonial era to the present day, they explore topics such as aliens, monsters, ghosts, and true crime, uncovering the stories and legends that have fascinated Australians for generations.
As a social historian, Holly provides a unique perspective on the cultural significance of these strange phenomena, while Matthew brings his expertise in pop-culture to the table, offering insights into how these stories have been portrayed in movies, TV shows, and other media.
With a mix of humor and insight, "Weird Crap in Australia" is the perfect podcast for anyone who loves to explore the oddities and quirks of our world. Join Holly and Matthew as they take you on a journey through the strange and wonderful world of Australia's weirdest stories.
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Did you know a full firefight between MPs and soldiers took place in Central Station (Sydney) in February 1916, and you can still find the bullet holes in the pillars?
Did you know that one of Australia’s convict ships was waylaid by Americans during the aftermath of the American Revolution in 1815?
Did you know we have a dinosaur called Qantassaurus, and that most Australian fossil expeditions of the 1970s and 1980s were sponsored by corporations, rather than the government?
Did you know that the majority of the miners that took part in the Eureka Stockade of 1854 were Chinese, African-American, or from other ‘minority’ groups? And that the Victorian Gold Rush is where Australia learned to love Chinese food?
There’s a lot of history when it comes to this country - even just in the last 200 years - and very little of it is taught in our school systems. We feel that, in order to preserve the past, we have to get it out there into the minds of the present, and hopefully apply those lessons to the future. If you agree, we'd love you to join us.
New episodes release 12pm AEDST/AEST every Monday.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
Each episode, Holly, a trained historian, and Matthew, a pop-culture enthusiast, dive into the weird and wacky aspects of Australian history and society. From the colonial era to the present day, they explore topics such as aliens, monsters, ghosts, and true crime, uncovering the stories and legends that have fascinated Australians for generations.
As a social historian, Holly provides a unique perspective on the cultural significance of these strange phenomena, while Matthew brings his expertise in pop-culture to the table, offering insights into how these stories have been portrayed in movies, TV shows, and other media.
With a mix of humor and insight, "Weird Crap in Australia" is the perfect podcast for anyone who loves to explore the oddities and quirks of our world. Join Holly and Matthew as they take you on a journey through the strange and wonderful world of Australia's weirdest stories.
***
Did you know a full firefight between MPs and soldiers took place in Central Station (Sydney) in February 1916, and you can still find the bullet holes in the pillars?
Did you know that one of Australia’s convict ships was waylaid by Americans during the aftermath of the American Revolution in 1815?
Did you know we have a dinosaur called Qantassaurus, and that most Australian fossil expeditions of the 1970s and 1980s were sponsored by corporations, rather than the government?
Did you know that the majority of the miners that took part in the Eureka Stockade of 1854 were Chinese, African-American, or from other ‘minority’ groups? And that the Victorian Gold Rush is where Australia learned to love Chinese food?
There’s a lot of history when it comes to this country - even just in the last 200 years - and very little of it is taught in our school systems. We feel that, in order to preserve the past, we have to get it out there into the minds of the present, and hopefully apply those lessons to the future. If you agree, we'd love you to join us.
New episodes release 12pm AEDST/AEST every Monday.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
317 Episodes
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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.
The Black Hand Gang's reign of terror from 1929 to 1938 left a chilling imprint on Australia. From Jean Morris's tragic murder to a series of mysterious deaths in Ingham, their ruthless tactics instilled fear across communities. Despite law enforcement's efforts, their legacy endures as a reminder of organized crime's dark underbelly.As whispers of their deeds echo through history, the tale of the Black Hand Gang serves as a cautionary reminder of the lengths to which criminal organizations will go to maintain power and control.Join Holly & Matthew as they look into the activity and the consequences of the Gang's reign in Queensland.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
Jean Morris's murder in 1932 remains a haunting enigma with a simple answer. Found stabbed 43 times in her home, suspicions fell on her Italian associates Joe Maganetti and Michael Gudas.The brutality suggested the involvement of foreign criminal elements, possibly by the notorious Black Hand. Italian national Vincenzo Dagostino emerged as a suspect, allegedly ordering her death for rejecting his advances and knowing too much about Mafia activities. As the investigation intensified, the shadows of conspiracy grew darker, leaving Jean Morris's death a chilling tale of crime and secrets.Join Holly & Matthew as they begin their journey into the secrets of L'Onorata Societa - the Honored Society. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
"Ferals" was an Australian children's TV gem that aired on ABC from 1994 to 1995. In a zany share-house setting, puppet pals like Rattus P. Rattus and Mixy wreaked havoc, challenging their human landlord, Joe, at every turn. With uproarious antics and a rebellious spirit, this cult classic delivered laughs and life lessons in equal measure, captivating young audiences Down Under with its unforgettable characters and offbeat charm.Join Holly & Matthew as they wander down Nostalgia Avenue again, and argue about what the Ferals actually were.Clips copyright of their respective owners. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
On August 5, 1944, the Cowra breakout marked a significant event in Australian military history. Over 1,100 Japanese prisoners of war attempted to escape from the prisoner of war camp in Cowra, New South Wales, resulting in the largest prison break in Australian history. The breakout led to a violent confrontation between the prisoners and Australian guards, resulting in the deaths of 231 Japanese prisoners and four Australian soldiers, with many more wounded. The incident highlighted the challenges of managing prisoners of war during wartime and left a lasting impact on both Australian and Japanese societies. The Cowra breakout has since been commemorated through various memorials and remains a poignant reminder of the human cost of war.TW: Suicide.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
What do the Kokoda Trail, the Bombing of Darwin, the Brownout Strangler and Australian Codebreakers have in commmon?The Cowra Breakout. The Cowra Breakout remains a special episode in Australia's wartime history, reflecting the complexities of captivity, resistance, and conflict. Its enduring legacy prompts continued examination of the human experience in times of war, offering insights into the psychological, social, and political dynamics that shape such events.By delving into the motivations, actions, and consequences of both the prisoners and their captors, the Cowra Breakout invites deeper reflection on themes of resilience, identity, and the enduring quest for freedom. In a world still grappling with the scars of war, the Cowra Breakout stands as a reminder of the enduring pursuit of dignity and liberty amidst adversity.Join Holly & Matthew as they look into the cause of the breakout, and link the event to 4 different events already covered (with more to come!)Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
What do the Kokoda Trail, the Bombing of Darwin, the Brownout Strangler and Australian Codebreakers have in commmon?The Cowra Breakout. The Cowra Breakout remains a special episode in Australia's wartime history, reflecting the complexities of captivity, resistance, and conflict. Its enduring legacy prompts continued examination of the human experience in times of war, offering insights into the psychological, social, and political dynamics that shape such events.By delving into the motivations, actions, and consequences of both the prisoners and their captors, the Cowra Breakout invites deeper reflection on themes of resilience, identity, and the enduring quest for freedom. In a world still grappling with the scars of war, the Cowra Breakout stands as a reminder of the enduring pursuit of dignity and liberty amidst adversity.Join Holly & Matthew as they look into the cause of the breakout, and link the event to 4 different events already covered (with more to come!)Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
The Big Pineapple in Queensland, Australia, isn't just a landmark—it's a hub for agri-tourism. Standing tall at sixteen meters, it represents the region's pineapple industry, offering educational tours and entertainment. Through farmer's markets and festivals, it promotes agrarian experiences, enriching visitors' understanding of rural life. Seamlessly blending entertainment with education, the Big Pineapple sustains cultural significance while boosting the local economy.Join Holly & Matthew as they travel back in time to when this spikey hell-plant was considered a treat, and when people would literally travel for days to see a 16ft tall one.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
The "Dumb Ways to Die" campaign launched in November 2012 by Metro Trains in Melbourne, and by the end of next year, it cemented itself as a legendary advertising campaign. Its viral success not only promoted railway safety, but also earned international acclaim for its creative approach, becoming an iconic example of effective public service announcements and a billion parodies.Join Holly & Matthew as they delve into its viral success and profound impact on public awareness, illuminating the intersection of creativity and public safety advocacy in contemporary advertising discourse.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
The sinking of HMAS Voyager in 1964, following a collision with HMAS Melbourne during a night-time exercise off New South Wales, resulted in 82 fatalities. Miscommunication and poor visibility were identified as primary causes, highlighting deficiencies in naval procedures and equipment. Subsequent reforms were implemented within the Royal Australian Navy to enhance ship-to-ship communication, radar systems, and operational practices, emphasizing the crucial importance of effective communication and safety protocols in maritime operations and the inherent risks involved.Join Holly & Matthew as they delve into the aftermath, where reforms sparked by a Royal Commission reshaped naval protocols.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
The sinking of HMAS Voyager in 1964, following a collision with HMAS Melbourne during a night-time exercise off New South Wales, resulted in 82 fatalities. Miscommunication and poor visibility were identified as primary causes, highlighting deficiencies in naval procedures and equipment. Subsequent reforms were implemented within the Royal Australian Navy to enhance ship-to-ship communication, radar systems, and operational practices, emphasizing the crucial importance of effective communication and safety protocols in maritime operations and the inherent risks involved.Join Holly & Matthew as they delve into the aftermath, where reforms sparked by a Royal Commission reshaped naval protocols.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
Join Holly & Matthew for our traditional 100-episode celebration! This round, we're publishing an interview previously only seen on Patreon, and answering fan questions!Thanks for all your support, guys, we love you all!Head over to this episode of the Dingo Ate My Movie podcast to hear Matthew reminisce about the Australian cult classic, Stone. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
Discover the tale of Bunyip Bluegum, Bill Barnacle, and Sam Sawnoff as they guard their magical dessert against the devious schemes of Possum and Wombat. Explore the themes of friendship and greed in this beloved Australian classic. Get ready for a delightful journey filled with laughter, adventure, and a pudding that's more than meets the eye!In this episode, join Holly & Matthew as they delve into the whimsical world of "The Magic Pudding" by Norman Lindsay, his lurid past, and the book's legacy. *** For the uncut version with an extra 5 minutes of episode, subscribe to our Patreon feed.Main Theme music – Kevin MacLeod"Slow Ticking Clock" – Kevin MacLeodUsed under a Creative Commons license.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
In 1996, a crime rocked Australia when a mother, brother, and sister were brutally murdered in their New South Wales home.As investigators delved into the case, suspicions mounted, but the perpetrator remained elusive. Despite attempts to mask the crime as a robbery gone wrong, clues began to unravel the mystery. Strained family dynamics and a cheating husband emerged as potential motives, casting shadows of doubt over the true culprit. So when 17 year-old Matthew de Gruchy was arrested for the murder, the country gasped.But questions remained as to whether he committed these murders, or whether they were the work of a third party. Was Matthew framed, or was he the unlucky victim of circumstantial evidence?Join Holly & Matthew as they look through the case, and attempt to figure out why this young man would snap so badly as to kill his mother, brother and sister in their own home.Main Theme music – Kevin MacLeod"Slow Ticking Clock" – Kevin MacLeodUsed under a Creative Commons license.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
Throughout his criminal career, Donahue and his gang targeted stagecoaches and travelers, using the rugged terrain of the Australian outback to their advantage. Unlike other bushrangers, however, Donahue's group stole more than just valuables - they weren't called the Strippers for nothing.As his exploits grew in infamy, Donahue became a folk hero to some and a menace to others. His ability to outwit law enforcement and continue his criminal activities captivated the public imagination.In this episode, we chronicle Donahue's life as a bushranger, highlighting the impact of his actions on Australian society and his enduring legacy as one of the most infamous outlaws in Australian history.Main Theme music – Kevin MacLeod"Slow Ticking Clock" – Kevin MacLeodUsed under a Creative Commons license.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
**Child friendly listening!**First, there was Dora the Explorer. Then there was Pepper Pig.Now, there is Bluey.Join Holly & Matthew as they dive into world of the Blue Heeler, celebrating the pup's universal appeal and Australian attitude. Explore the show's unique storytelling, blending humor, emotion, and valuable life lessons with their distinct Brisbane-ness.Join Holly & Matthew as they discover how Bluey transcends generations with relatable family dynamics, from imaginative games to heartfelt conversations, the series captures the essence of family bonding.Sounds in this episode: Chip Chilla clip - The Daily Wire Bluey Theme - Ludo StudiosMain Theme music – Kevin MacLeod"Slow Ticking Clock" – Kevin MacLeodUsed under a Creative Commons license.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
James Hardie Industries' involvement in the asbestos industry significantly shaped its trajectory from the mid-20th century. By the 1930s, the company had begun producing asbestos-containing products, capitalizing on the material's fire-resistant and insulating properties. This move propelled James Hardie into a dominant position within the asbestos industry, with its products widely used in construction throughout Australia and globally. However, by the 1970s, concerns about asbestos-related health risks began to emerge, leading to a shift in public perception and regulatory scrutiny.Join Matthew and Holly as they work their way through the history of the company who has become synonymous with asbestos exposure, their deeds and missteMain Theme music – Kevin MacLeod"Slow Ticking Clock" – Kevin MacLeodUsed under a Creative Commons license.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
James Hardie Industries' involvement in the asbestos industry significantly shaped its trajectory from the mid-20th century. By the 1930s, the company had begun producing asbestos-containing products, capitalizing on the material's fire-resistant and insulating properties. This move propelled James Hardie into a dominant position within the asbestos industry, with its products widely used in construction throughout Australia and globally. However, by the 1970s, concerns about asbestos-related health risks began to emerge, leading to a shift in public perception and regulatory scrutiny.Join Matthew and Holly as they work their way through the history of the company who has become synonymous with asbestos exposure, their deeds and missteps, court cases and extradition treaties.Main Theme music – Kevin MacLeod"Slow Ticking Clock" – Kevin MacLeodUsed under a Creative Commons license.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
James Hardie Industries' involvement in the asbestos industry significantly shaped its trajectory from the mid-20th century. By the 1930s, the company had begun producing asbestos-containing products, capitalizing on the material's fire-resistant and insulating properties. This move propelled James Hardie into a dominant position within the asbestos industry, with its products widely used in construction throughout Australia and globally. However, by the 1970s, concerns about asbestos-related health risks began to emerge, leading to a shift in public perception and regulatory scrutiny.Join Matthew and Holly as they work their way through the history of the company who has become synonymous with asbestos exposure, their deeds and missteps, court cases and extradition treaties.Main Theme music – Kevin MacLeod"Slow Ticking Clock" – Kevin MacLeodUsed under a Creative Commons license.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
Wittenoom emerged as a bustling mining hub in the 1930s, extracting lucrative blue asbestos from the surrounding rock. By 1947, it dominated global supply.By the 1960s, alarming health concerns linked to asbestos emerged. Despite mounting evidence, mining persisted until 1966.Today, Wittenoom stands as a haunting testament to unchecked industrial ambition, its once-thriving streets now ghostly remnants. Join Matthew and Holly as they delve deeper, and uncover a town erased from maps but not from memory, where prosperity met an unsettling legacy.Main Theme music – Kevin MacLeod"Slow Ticking Clock" – Kevin MacLeodUsed under a Creative Commons license.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
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I didn't even realise how cute Tazzie Devils are. They almost look like tiny bears with racoon features 🙀 Poor babies, I fecked up and looked at the photos before the warning...I just want to hug them all.
I live in Townsville, and my husband works at Pajingo mine in Charters Towers. We both grew up in CT travelling the Flinders Highway our whole lives. This hits very close to home 🙌🙌❤️
I know this one's an oldie, but I'm Laughing at this episode because there are so many geeky things that make up our Christmas' that are so similar 🙌🙌 Diehard is definitely a Christmas movie,Doctor Who Christmas specials are a must and Christmas Vacation is just plain tradition. I've killed numerous pavlova bases and just to make you feel uncomfortable our family 100% has a hot lunch and we live in Charters Towers haha. Not to say we don't smash ham, prawns and triffle as well 🙌 love listening to you both.Nothing like finally being able to relate to a few geeky Australians through a sea of American podcasts.
Love This Podcast. I Love Learning About Australian History and Having Fun Doing It.
I thought Me a crawley was part aboriginal and another reason she didn't go out much after her husband died was because she was looked down upon for her indigeousness and people were only nice to her out of respect for her husband. horrible I know
I've actually stayed there overnight. it was pretty cool....i didn't see any ghosts even when I snuck out after everyone had gone to bed!! some rooms definately had a sinister feel especially the room where the eldest son resided. oh and by the way Matthew, my grandfather was born in....you guessed it, Tumut!!! My great grandmother was the publican at the woolpack hotel when it was by the river. tumut rocks and so do u guys!!
👏👏👏👏 Thankyou for 100 fantastic episodes and many laughs. You guys rock!!!
this is the funniest episode hands down. thanks for making my day. you guys rock
Agree Holly, why change to outlook, still have my hotmail ☺.
I thought this sounded pretty good, but it's really just a couple of numb nuts having a conversation about thing's they don't know much about and have done little real research on I listened to the Sydney harbour bridge today and thought they were very disrespectful to the men who died building it. and is it really necessary to drop the f word all the time. there are podcasts out there that are better researched and more professionally presented covering the same subjects.
also...do a show about Secret Valley....pretty please
guys....blinky bill, dot had a kangaroo and Skippy was stuffed...didn't you see fast forward? "Awwww jeez Skip" 😂😂😂😂 great episode
great podcast! there were a few things I caught that were inaccurate. The shooting in Dunblane Scotland took place in March 1996, and Martin Bryant was interested to find out if he had killed more people than had died at Dunblane. The Columbine shooting wasn't the same year as Dunblane and Port Arthur, it was April 20th 1999. Eric Harris was the one who had the 24 year old girlfriend (Dave Cullen's book on Columbine is such an interesting and detailed book, highly recommend!) Eric Harris was deffo a psychopath. Lastly, WASP stands for White Anglo Saxon Protestants. Not meaning to come across as rude, but knowledge is power!
Dingoes aren't contained to WA. You can find them less than 45 minutes south of Canberra in Namadgi NP.