In 1941, amid the blistering sands of North Africa, a band of Australian soldiers earned one of the most enduring nicknames in military history — The Rats of Tobruk. Besieged by German and Italian forces, these men held the Libyan port town of Tobruk for eight gruelling months, defying the odds, the desert, and the propaganda of the Axis powers.What began as an insult from Nazi radio became a badge of honour. The Australians dug in — literally — carving homes and defenses from the desert rock while withstanding relentless shelling and attacks. Their courage, defiance, and larrikin spirit turned Tobruk into a symbol of Australian resilience under fire.In this episode, we dig into the siege that defined a generation, the humour that kept the Rats going, and the legacy that cemented their place as one of the fiercest fighting forces of the Second World War.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
In 1941, amid the blistering sands of North Africa, a band of Australian soldiers earned one of the most enduring nicknames in military history — The Rats of Tobruk. Besieged by German and Italian forces, these men held the Libyan port town of Tobruk for eight gruelling months, defying the odds, the desert, and the propaganda of the Axis powers.What began as an insult from Nazi radio became a badge of honour. The Australians dug in — literally — carving homes and defenses from the desert rock while withstanding relentless shelling and attacks. Their courage, defiance, and larrikin spirit turned Tobruk into a symbol of Australian resilience under fire.In this episode, we dig into the siege that defined a generation, the humour that kept the Rats going, and the legacy that cemented their place as one of the fiercest fighting forces of the Second World War.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
He was the upside-down man who brought imagination to life — with nothing more than a pencil for a nose and a blackboard for a stage. Mr Squiggle, the beloved children’s television icon, captured the hearts of generations with his wobbly lines, friendly charm, and boundless creativity.Travel back to the earliest age of Australian TV to explore how Norman Hetherington’s quirky puppet became a national treasure. From his humble beginnings on ABC in 1959 to the stories the hosts' own mothers told them about the show, Mr. Jolly Squiggles (Simplified to Mr. Squiggle in later years) wasn’t just a puppet — he was a teacher, an artist, and a friend to millions.Join Holly & Matthew as they uncover the legacy of Mr Squiggle and Friends, the artistry behind his creation, and the enduring magic of a character who taught Australia that a few squiggles and a bit of imagination could turn into anything at all.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
Few scandals have shaken Australia’s justice system like the Lawyer X affair. At the center was a prominent barrister who secretly worked as a police informant, all while representing some of the country’s most notorious criminals. Her name was tied to dozens of figures on both sides of the law, leaving behind a trail of questions about loyalty, ethics, and justice.By living a double life, she jeopardised the very foundation of the courts. Convictions were thrown into doubt, appeals were launched, and the credibility of the entire legal system was called into question. The scandal not only exposed corruption and desperation in law enforcement, but also highlighted the dangers of blurred boundaries between lawyers and their clients.In this series, we dig into how one lawyer’s choices spiraled into one of the biggest legal crises in Australian history. From the underworld connections to the Royal Commission, we explore how the Lawyer X scandal redefined trust, justice, and the rule of law in Victoria.***Linked Episodes:- 309-312 - L'Onorata Societa, the Calabrian Mafia- 188 & 189 - The Death of the Vampire Gigolo- 351-358 - The Gangland Wars- 76 & 77 - The Walsh St Shooting- 61 & 62 - Old Melbourne GaolBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
Few scandals have shaken Australia’s justice system like the Lawyer X affair. At the center was a prominent barrister who secretly worked as a police informant, all while representing some of the country’s most notorious criminals. Her name was tied to dozens of figures on both sides of the law, leaving behind a trail of questions about loyalty, ethics, and justice.By living a double life, she jeopardised the very foundation of the courts. Convictions were thrown into doubt, appeals were launched, and the credibility of the entire legal system was called into question. The scandal not only exposed corruption and desperation in law enforcement, but also highlighted the dangers of blurred boundaries between lawyers and their clients.In this series, we dig into how one lawyer’s choices spiraled into one of the biggest legal crises in Australian history. From the underworld connections to the Royal Commission, we explore how the Lawyer X scandal redefined trust, justice, and the rule of law in Victoria.***Linked Episodes:- 309-312 - L'Onorata Societa, the Calabrian Mafia- 188 & 189 - The Death of the Vampire Gigolo- 351-358 - The Gangland Wars- 76 & 77 - The Walsh St Shooting- 61 & 62 - Old Melbourne GaolBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
Few scandals have shaken Australia’s justice system like the Lawyer X affair. At the center was a prominent barrister who secretly worked as a police informant, all while representing some of the country’s most notorious criminals. Her name was tied to dozens of figures on both sides of the law, leaving behind a trail of questions about loyalty, ethics, and justice.By living a double life, she jeopardised the very foundation of the courts. Convictions were thrown into doubt, appeals were launched, and the credibility of the entire legal system was called into question. The scandal not only exposed corruption and desperation in law enforcement, but also highlighted the dangers of blurred boundaries between lawyers and their clients.In this series, we dig into how one lawyer’s choices spiraled into one of the biggest legal crises in Australian history. From the underworld connections to the Royal Commission, we explore how the Lawyer X scandal redefined trust, justice, and the rule of law in Victoria.***Linked Episodes:- 309-312 - L'Onorata Societa, the Calabrian Mafia- 188 & 189 - The Death of the Vampire Gigolo- 351-358 - The Gangland Wars- 76 & 77 - The Walsh St Shooting- 61 & 62 - Old Melbourne GaolBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
In 1876, one of the most daring prison escapes in history set sail from Fremantle, Western Australia. The American whaling ship Catalpa was at the heart of the plot, masterminded by Irish Fenians determined to free their comrades from the brutal Fremantle Prison. With clever disguises, coded messages, and a nail-biting chase at sea, the Catalpa’s voyage became a legendary tale of rebellion, ingenuity, and defiance against the British Empire.In this episode, we dive into the planning, the escape itself, and how this incredible story still resonates in both Australian and Irish history today.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
On August 9, 1981, a small Cessna 210 aircraft carrying five men vanished over the rugged wilderness of Barrington Tops, NSW. Despite extensive searches, no wreckage or remains were ever recovered, and the fate of the aircraft remains one of Australia’s most baffling aviation mysteries. In this episode, we explore the background of the passengers, the last radio transmissions, the massive search efforts, and the eerie theories that still surround the disappearance. Was it a tragic accident, or is there more to the story hidden in the misty ranges of Barrington Tops?Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
From smoky pubs in Adelaide to selling out arenas across the country, Cold Chisel became the voice of a generation. Fronted by Jim Barnes, the band’s raw energy and working-class anthems captured the spirit of Australia in the late 70s and 80s, their legacy continuing all the way until tomorrow. With hits like Khe Sanh and Flame Trees, they weren’t just making music — they were telling the stories of everyday Aussies.In this episode, we dig into the band’s origins, their meteoric rise, the chaos of fame, and the lasting impact they’ve had on Australian music culture. Whether you’re a diehard fan or new to their legacy, Cold Chisel’s story is one of grit, passion, and pure rock ’n’ roll.*All clips used are copyright their respective owners.The final rendition of "When the War is Over" on this episode was performed by members of the Australian Army. You can watch the full performance here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=70JhHnVuBJgBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
From smoky pubs in Adelaide to selling out arenas across the country, Cold Chisel became the voice of a generation. Fronted by Jim Barnes, the band’s raw energy and working-class anthems captured the spirit of Australia in the late 70s and 80s, their legacy continuing all the way until tomorrow. With hits like Khe Sanh and Flame Trees, they weren’t just making music — they were telling the stories of everyday Aussies.In this episode, we dig into the band’s origins, their meteoric rise, the chaos of fame, and the lasting impact they’ve had on Australian music culture. Whether you’re a diehard fan or new to their legacy, Cold Chisel’s story is one of grit, passion, and pure rock ’n’ roll.*This week's episode is sponsored by Kurralta Park, a small indie band from Adelaide! Head over to their Spotify or their YouTube Channel now to check out their new album, Powell Place! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
On the morning of 18 January 1977, Blue Mountains commuters boarded their usual train, expecting nothing more than another routine ride to work. Instead, the Granville train disaster became Australia’s deadliest rail accident. When a commuter train derailed and slammed into a road bridge, the collapse that followed trapped dozens in a nightmare of twisted metal and rubble. Rescue crews fought against the clock, and the nation watched in horror as the death toll rose.Join Holly & Matthew as they revisit the events of that day — what went wrong, the incredible acts of bravery, and the lasting changes it brought to Australian rail safety.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
On the morning of 18 January 1977, Blue Mountains commuters boarded their usual train, expecting nothing more than another routine ride to work. Instead, the Granville train disaster became Australia’s deadliest rail accident. When a commuter train derailed and slammed into a road bridge, the collapse that followed trapped dozens in a nightmare of twisted metal and rubble. Rescue crews fought against the clock, and the nation watched in horror as the death toll rose.Join Holly & Matthew as they revisit the events of that day — what went wrong, the incredible acts of bravery, and the lasting changes it brought to Australian rail safety.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
Every year, a sleepy New South Wales town gets turned into a pit lane paradise as 150,000 fans descend on Mount Panorama for the Bathurst 1000 — Australia’s most iconic car race. But Bathurst isn’t just about lap times and burnout smoke. Behind the wheelspin lies a deep and chaotic history: from the deadly results of some races, to the Peter Brock legacy, to the legendary Holden vs Ford rivalry that turned race day into a full-blown cultural war.This episode, Holly and Matthew take a drive through the history of the Bathurst 1000 — the triumphs, the tragedies, the questionable crowd behaviour — and how this race became one of the most defining events in Australian sporting history.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
In this series, we dive into one of the most confronting chapters of modern Australian history: the Cronulla Riots of December 2005. Sparked by rising tensions, fuelled by alcohol, misinformation, and nationalism, what started as a “community protest” quickly turned into an ugly and violent display of racial hatred.Join Holly & Matthew as they look into an event about fear, blame, and what happens when divisions in the community explode into the public eye.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
In this episode, we dive into one of the most confronting chapters of modern Australian history: the Cronulla Riots of December 2005. Sparked by rising tensions, fuelled by alcohol, misinformation, and nationalism, what started as a “community protest” quickly turned into an ugly and violent display of racial hatred.Join Holly & Matthew as they look into an event about fear, blame, and what happens when divisions in the community explode into the public eye.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
HIn this episode, we dive into one of the most confronting chapters of modern Australian history: the Cronulla Riots of December 2005. Sparked by rising tensions, fuelled by alcohol, misinformation, and nationalism, what started as a “community protest” quickly turned into an ugly and violent display of racial hatred.Join Holly & Matthew as they look into an event about fear, blame, and what happens when divisions in the community explode into the public eye.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
In the lonely dunes of South Australia’s Coorong, legend speaks of a bushranger so strange he’s hard to forget: the Birdman of the Coorong. Unlike his horse-riding peers, this eccentric outlaw was rumoured to have galloped through the saltbush atop an ostrich.Was he a real menace to passing coaches, or just a yarn spun to spook travellers on the road to Kingston SE?Join Holly & Matthew as they dig into the history, rumour, and colonial oddity behind one of Australia’s most curious crime legends.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
Before they were stadium superstars, INXS were just six Aussie blokes carving out a sound in the sweaty pubs of Sydney. In this episode, we chart the meteoric rise of one of Australia’s biggest musical exports—from their gritty early days, to the glitz of international fame, and the tragic loss of frontman Michael Hutchence.Join Holly & Matthew as they dive into their chart-topping hits, backstage drama, controversies, and lasting legacy. It’s the story of a band that defined a generation and gave Australia its rock’n’roll swagger on the world stage.*Featured music clips (c) INXSBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
Before they were stadium superstars, INXS were just six Aussie blokes carving out a sound in the sweaty pubs of Sydney. In this episode, we chart the meteoric rise of one of Australia’s biggest musical exports—from their gritty early days, to the glitz of international fame, and the tragic loss of frontman Michael Hutchence.Join Holly & Matthew as they dive into their chart-topping hits, backstage drama, controversies, and lasting legacy. It’s the story of a band that defined a generation and gave Australia its rock’n’roll swagger on the world stage.*Featured music clips (c) INXSBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
Before they were stadium superstars, INXS were just six Aussie blokes carving out a sound in the sweaty pubs of Sydney. In this episode, we chart the meteoric rise of one of Australia’s biggest musical exports—from their gritty early days, to the glitz of international fame, and the tragic loss of frontman Michael Hutchence.Join Holly & Matthew as they dive into their chart-topping hits, backstage drama, controversies, and lasting legacy. It’s the story of a band that defined a generation and gave Australia its rock’n’roll swagger on the world stage.*"Just Keep Walking" clip (c) INXS 1980Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-crap-in-australia--2968350/support.
Troy
I have to stop listening. I can't stand listening to Matt's superiority complex and disinformation about Mental ill Health. A psychology Degree won't help you Matt. You'll need to learn critical thinking which I fear you don't have the aptitude for.
Hayleigh Burt
Sounds like Matt has adhd. It okay I love bluey because they are short and they keep my attention and they are about real life topics.
LemonCakes
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.
LemonCakes
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 🙌🙌❤️
LemonCakes
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.