Sun, 6 August 2023
On 27 October 1857 a party of Yiman warriors killed 12 people at Hornet Bank Station. On 16 October 1861 another massacre of settlers took place at Culin-la-Ringo when Gayiri warriors killed 19 people. What emerges is a story of frontier wars where local Aboriginal people fought to protect thier hunting lands and sacred sites which they saw were being defiled by white settlers. Email me at jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com
Direct download: AHP-147-Hornet_Bank_-_682023_10.16_am.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 9:58am AEST |
Sun, 11 June 2023
Vera Deakin is one of those great women in Australian History that you have probably never heard of. However, if your family has roots that go back to WWI she may have had a significant impact on your life. Vera Deakin was the daughter of Alfred Deakin and his wife Elizabeth. She is known for her long involvement with the Australian Red Cross of over 60 years and establishing the the Australian Wounded and Missing Enquiry Bureau to trace missing and killed soldiers, bringing comfort to their families. My main source for this episode is Carole Woods' excellent book 'Vera Deakin and the Red Cross'. You can get a copy at: https://www.historyvictoria.org.au/bookshop/ Email me at jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com
Direct download: AHP146_Vera_Deakin_-_662023_12.23_pm.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 7:30am AEST |
Tue, 25 April 2023
We wrap up our four part series on the Australia First Movement. There's one final inquiry, led by Justice Clyne, to investigate the internments. We look at what happened to some of the key people after the War and ask what to make of it all? Finally, it's ANZAC Day, the day Australians and New Zealanders commemorate those who have served in war. You can email me at jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com |
Sun, 16 April 2023
Following the internments of Australia First members, there is disquiet about why, in a democracy, people could be detained without trial. Some appeal against their internment. The Government establishes a number of inquiries and most internees are released over 1942. Except, that is, for Percy Stephensen and a few others. Remember, you can always email me at jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com |
Thu, 23 March 2023
The security forces, police and political leaders take a close interest in Australia First members. After WWII is declared the Publicist ceases and there is public opposition to Australia First, particularly in Sydney. In Western Australia the police send in an undercover agent and get evidence of a conspiracy to suport a Japanese invasion, sabotage and the assassination of public officials. The police swoop and arrest key Australia First members on 9 March 1942. Check out Barbara Winter's book 'The Australia First Movement, Dreaming of a National Socialist Australia'. Apologies for the sound quality at the end of the epsisode. This was due to a severe thunderstorm hitting Canberra. Email me at jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com
Direct download: AHP_143_Australia_First_Movement_Part_2_-_2332023_1.11_pm.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 1:17pm AEST |
Sun, 19 February 2023
On 9 March 1942 four people were arrested in Perth on suspicion of a plot to contact the Japanese armed forces to help with a Japanese invasion and to assassinate public officials. They had formed an organisation called the Australia-First Group. A few days later 16 people, members of the Australia First Movement, were arrested in Sydney. In Parliament they were all denounced as traitors – because WWII was underway and Australia was in fear of a Japanese invasion. Two were sentenced to prison and most of the others were secretly interned for the duration of the war.
Direct download: AHP-142-Australia_First_Movement_Part_1_-_1822023_3.17_pm.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 7:30am AEST |
Sun, 5 February 2023
Australia Day is celebrated on 26 January each year. But how much do you really know about the history of Australia Day? 26 January is not the date the First Fleet arrived in Sydney Harbour, nor is it the day the Colony of NSW was proclaimed. And it may surprise you that the first public holiday to be actually called Australia Day was held on 30 July, not 26 January.
Direct download: AHP_141_Australia_Day_-_422023_9.37_am.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 7:30am AEST |
Wed, 28 December 2022
On 8 September 2022 Queen Elizabeth II died. In this episode we explore what it meant for Australia. Oh, and I also rave on a little about cricket.
Direct download: AHP140-The_death_of_Queen_Elizabeth_II_-_28122022_10.09_am.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 10:11am AEST |
Mon, 25 April 2022
It's ANZAC Day and we commomorate those Australians who served on HMAS Perth which was sunk in the Battle of the Sunda Strait on 1 March 1942.
Direct download: AHP-139-HMAS_Perth_-_2342022_11.59_am.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 7:30am AEST |
Sun, 24 April 2022
Learn about the amazing story about Oskar Speck a man who paddled his kayak from Germany to Australia, starting in 1932 and taking 7 years to complete his voyage. By the time he arrived in Australia the world was at war and so he was, like many German nationals, interned. After the War Speck settled in Australia, becoming a successful opal dealer.
Direct download: AHP-138-Oskar_Speck_-_2342022_10.47_am.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 7:30am AEST |
Sun, 27 March 2022
In the 1930s the inner suburbs of Sydney were in turmoil as rival gangs fought it out for supremacy in what was called the Razor Gang Wars'. The Razor Gangs were led by two women - Tilly Devine and Kate Leigh. We also pay tribute to Shane Warne (Warnie) who passed away at the young age of 52. For his ball of the century see: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=44WLwHEWJ4M
Direct download: AHP_137_Razor_Gang_Wars_-_1932022_12.57_pm.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 7:30am AEST |
Sun, 27 February 2022
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are advised that this episode mentions the names of people who have passed away. Governor Macquarie uses military force to effectively end the Sydney Wars. We also wrap things up and conclude that the history I learned at school was not accurate. We also pay tribute to John Landy, the second person to break the 4 minute mile, who has passed away. He is also famous for helping Ron Clarke to his feet in the 1956 Australian mile championships. See https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4LZK5YbJkYQ
Direct download: AHP_136_Sydney_Wars_Wrap_up_-_2622022_12.05_pm.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 7:30am AEST |
Sun, 13 February 2022
We wrap up our coverage of the 1971 Springbok Tour. The Sprinboks arrive in Australia and are met with protests wherever they go.
Email me at jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com
Direct download: AHP_135_Springbok_Tour_Part_2_-_1222022_10.58_am.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 7:09am AEST |
Thu, 30 December 2021
The 1971 South Africa rugby union tour of Australia was controversial. Protests erupted against the South African policy of apartheid and in Queensland a state of emergency was declared. The implications of the Tour also went broader than the rugby tour. No Apartheid-era sporting team from South Africa ever toured Australia again. It also made Australians reflect on our treatment of our Indigenous peoples Email me at jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com
Direct download: AHP_134_Springbok_Tour_Part_1_-_291221_9.08_pm.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 7:30am AEST |
Sun, 31 October 2021
The wetlands around Koo Wee Run in Victoria had a long Indigenous history before they were drained for agricultural use. Email me at jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com
Direct download: AHP_133_Koo_Wee_Rup_-_311021_8.38_pm.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 8:44pm AEST |
Sun, 29 August 2021
Ernest Fisk may be a name you have never heard of. But, as the man who bought radio to Australia, he has had a huge impact on your life. Also, be sure to catch the History Detective Podcast series 'Ladies in the House' Email me at jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com
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Sun, 15 August 2021
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are advised that this episode mentions the names of people who have passed away. Things hot up on the Cumberland Plain as large bands of warriors exact reprisals as far south as Razorbank Range. Farms are abandoned as the settlers fear for their lives. Apologies for the poor recording quality. Email me at jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com
Direct download: AHP_131_Sydney_Wars_1814-16_-_14821_7.29_pm.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 7:30am AEST |
Sun, 27 June 2021
Mary MacKillop founded the Sisters of St Joseph, the first Catholic order founded by an Australian. She and her order established schools and welfare institutions throughout Australia and New Zealand, with an emphasis on education for the rural poor. She was the first Australian to be canonised as a Saint by the Catholic Church. Email me at jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com
Direct download: AHP_130_Mary_MacKillop_-_20621_9.42_am.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 7:00am AEST |
Sun, 6 June 2021
James Hardy Vaux was an English-born convict transported to NSW. He is probably the dodgiest convict ever and was, in fact, transported three times. But he also wrote the first full length autobiography in Australia and the first Australian dictionary. Email me at jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com
Direct download: AHP_129_James_Hardy_Vaux_-_15521_8.59_pm.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 7:00am AEST |
Sun, 16 May 2021
Aboriginal and Torres Islander people are warned that this episode mentions the name of people who have passed away. Pemulwuy may have been killed but the attacks continue. Governor King is forced to act and orders punitive responses. Meanwhile, Mosquito and Bull Dog are caputured and sent to Norfolk Island and Pemulwuy's son Tedbury joins the fight Email me at jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com
Direct download: AHP_128_Syd_Wars_1802-13_-_15521_1.46_pm.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 7:30am AEST |
Sun, 25 April 2021
Reg Saunders was a war hero who won the Military Medal. He was also the first Indigenous Australian to be commissioned as an officer in the Australian Army. Email me at jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com
Direct download: AHP_127_Reg_Saunders_-_26421_10.14_am.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 5:00am AEST |
Sun, 28 March 2021
Australia has had censorship since Captain Arthur Phillip planted the Union Jack at Sydney Cove in 1788. During the mid 20th century Australia is said to have had one of the strictest Censorship regimes in the western world. Email me at jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com
Direct download: AHP_126_Censorship_-_28321_11.33_am.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 11:38am AEST |
Sat, 13 March 2021
We finish our look at Malcolm Fraser, the 22nd Prime Minister of Australia. Why did he turn his back on the Party he led did he become a left winger after he retired from politics? Email me at jamesdampier.wap@gmail.com
Direct download: AHP_125_Malcolm_Fraser_Part_2_-_13321_11.04_am.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 11:09am AEST |
Sun, 14 February 2021
In this and the next episode we look at the life and career of John Malcolm Fraser, the 22nd Prime Minister of Australia. Malcom Fraser was extremely divisive in his day, predominantly because of his role in the Dismissal of the Whitlam Government. I hope to convince you that he is a much misunderstood figure. Email me at jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com
Direct download: AHP-124-Malcolm_Fraser_Pt_1_-_14221_12.17_pm.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 12:25pm AEST |
Sun, 24 January 2021
On Tuesday 18 January 1977 a crowded commuter train derailed and careered into the supports of the Bold Street Bridge in the Western Sydney suburb of Granville. The bridge collapsed, killing 83 people and injuring 213 others. The Granville Rail Disaster remains the worst rail disaster in Australian history. Email me at jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com |
Wed, 6 January 2021
The conflict on the Cumberland Plain and along the Hawkesbury River ramps up. Pemulwuy takes it to the colonists and leads his band of warriors in serious guerrilla warfare. In the Battle of Parramatta, he and 100 warriors fight it out with the NSW Corps. On the Hawkesbury, the Dharug and Darkingjung people resist the encroachment of the colonists. In the end Pemulwuy is killed after Governor King offers a reward for his capture or death. Email me at jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com
Direct download: AHP_122_Sydney_Wars_1797-1802_-_6121_8.07_am.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 9:00am AEST |
Sun, 13 December 2020
In this episode we learn about Tilly Aston, the blind Australian writer and educator, who founded The Victorian Association of Braille Writers and The Association for the Advancement of the Blind. Tilly Aston is remembered for achievements in promoting the rights of vision-impaired people. Email me at jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com |
Wed, 11 November 2020
On Remembrance Day I want to bring you the story of two best friends - Harold West and George Leonard. Private Harold West and Private Leonard were among about 5,000 Indigenous Australians who served during the Second World War. Here is a link to a YouTube video which is a trailer for a film about Harold West and George Leonard. Alas the film has not yet been made. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KvLCu1i0m-w&feature=youtu.be Email me at jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com
Direct download: AHP_120_Harold_West_-_71120_10.59_am.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 7:30am AEST |
Sat, 31 October 2020
In June 1826 local Campbelltown farmer Frederick Fisher disappeared. Four months later John Farley ran into the local pub claiming to have seen Frederick Fisher's ghost sitting on a bridge pointing to where his body lay. Email me at jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com
Direct download: AHP_119_Fishers_Ghost_-_311020_12.45_pm.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 1:30pm AEST |
Sat, 31 October 2020
On 15 October 1970, 50 years ago, workers were busy constructing a new bridge over the Yarra River in Melbourne. Suddenly the bridge started to groan, a pinging noise filled the air and the bridge just fell away. As a result of this tragedy 35 workers died. Email me at jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com
Direct download: AHP118_Westgate_Bridge_-_311020_12.08_pm.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 1:00pm AEST |
Sun, 11 October 2020
On 1 January 1915 Badsha Mahommed Gool and Mullah Abdullah shot dead four people and wounded seven more just outside the western NSW mining town of Broken Hill. Was this incident an act of war during WWI, a terrorist attack, or simply a criminal act by the two men concerned? Email me at james dampier.awp@gmail.com
Direct download: AHP_117_Batle_fo_Broken_Hill_-_41020_7.54_pm.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 7:00am AEST |
Sun, 20 September 2020
In this episode we are a taking a look at two eccentrics who lived in Sydney in the early and mid 20th Century - Beatrice Miles and Arthur Stace Email me at james dampier.awp@gmail.com
Direct download: AHP_116_Sydney_Eccentrics_-_13920_11.17_am.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 7:02am AEST |
Sat, 29 August 2020
The Bathurst Rebellion of 1830 was the strangest rebellion of the convict era. It took place around Bathurst about 170 kms to the west of Sydney. And it all started from a skinny-dipping incident. Remember you can email me at jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com
Direct download: AHP_115_Bathurst_Rebellion_-_29820_8.56_am.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 4:00pm AEST |
Sun, 16 August 2020
On 13 August 1940 a Royal Australian Airforce Lockheed Hudson aircraft crashed near the Canberra airport, killing all 10 passengers and crew on board. This crash had a significant impact on the Australian Government as the passengers on board included three Cabinet Ministers. The crash contributed to the downfall of the UAP Government of Robert Menzies. Email me at jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com
Direct download: AHP_114_Canberr_Air_Crash_-_16820_8.21_am.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 8:26am AEST |
Sun, 9 August 2020
From 1950-53, 17,000 Australians in the Army, Navy and Air Force fought in the Korean War. In this episode we delve into some of the battles Australians fought in and the stories of a number of Australians who served in Korea. Email me at jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com
Direct download: AHP_113_Korean_War_Part_2_-_9820_12.13_pm.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 12:24pm AEST |
Sun, 19 July 2020
June 2020 marks the 70th anniversary of the start of the Korean War. The Korean War is often called the forgotten war. But, from 1950-53, 17,000 Australians fought as part of the United Nations Multinational Force, defending South Korea from the Communist forces of North Korea. Email me at jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com
Direct download: AHP_122_Korean_War_Part_1_-_19720_3.32_pm.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 7:00pm AEST |
Sun, 28 June 2020
It's back to bushrangers. In this episode were are focusing on Frank Pearson also known as ‘Captain Starlight' and James Alpin McPherson who went by the moniker the 'Wild Scotchman'. Check out the following YouTube video on the 'Wild Scotchman' and his escape attempt from St Helena prison island: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wITSpdaZj9g Email me at jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com
Direct download: AHP_111_Bushtangers_not_Ned_Kelly_-_21620_7.28_pm.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 7:30am AEST |
Sun, 7 June 2020
In this episode we take a gander at one of Sydney’s most iconic landmarks – the Sydney Opera House. Sitting on Bennelong Point, the Sydney Opera House sits resplendent, with its white sails dominating Sydney Cove. Take a look at Stevie Wright performing Evie Parts 1, 2 and 3 at the Sydney Opera House in 1979. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lPveBD6WWXc . Email me at jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com
Direct download: AHP_110_Sydney_Opera_House_-_6620_12.48_pm.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 7:30am AEST |
Sun, 17 May 2020
Francis Greenway was an English-born architect who was transported to New South Wales as a convict for the crime of forgery. He was the colony’s first Government architect. Greenway is admired for his buildings such as St Matthew’s Church in Windsor and St James’ Church and the Hyde Park Barracks in Sydney. He was an extremely talented, but deeply flawed man. Email me at jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com. I answer every email.
Direct download: AHP109_Francis_Greenway_-_16520_11.03_am.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 7:30am AEST |
Sat, 25 April 2020
In this episode we learn about Douglas Grant, an Indigenous man who served in the trenches in World War I. He was treated as an equal in the AIF but faced discrimination upon his return home. Then there is Douglas Berneville-Claye, my English teacher at St Greg's Campbelltown. He passed himself off as a war hero. But he was actually a traitor, a British officer who joined the SS. |
Sat, 18 April 2020
The conflict between the British settlers and the local Indigenous people is heating up. The settlers push into the extremely fertile river flats along the Hawkesbury River near Windsor, Richmond and Wilberforce. This deprives the local people of access to traditional food sources. Email me at jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com. I answer every email. |
Sun, 15 March 2020
In 1813 Gregory Blaxland, William Lawson and William Charles Wentworth made the first successful crossing of the Blue Mountains. Or did they? Were Blaxland, Lawson and Wentworth really the first to cross the Blue Mountains? And what of the implications of their explorations for the local Indigenous people?
Direct download: AHP_106_Blaxland_Lawson_and_Wentworth_-_15320_1.59_pm.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 2:09pm AEST |
Sun, 23 February 2020
On 17 February 2020, General Motors announced the end of the Holden brand. This has shocked the nation and it truly is the end of an era. Watch the Holden TV advertisement 'Football, meat pies, kangaroos and Holden cars at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VGW-WX77zjY |
Sat, 22 February 2020
On Wednesday 26 May 1971, a man calling himself “Mr Brown" telephoned saying that Qantas Flight 755 from Sydney to Hong Kong was carrying a bomb. It was set to detonate as the plane came in to land and it could only be prevented if he was paid $500,000. Check out the movie 'Call me Mr Brown' on YouTube athttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eUDku9ha0-A PLEASE DONATE TO THE RED CROSS BUSHFIRE RECOVERY APPEAL AT: www.redcross.org.au |
Sun, 2 February 2020
Today we are into Aussie cryptozoology; the Bunyip and the Blue Mountain's Panther. Do they really exist? Well yes!. There is a real Bunyip right here in Canberra - Alexander the Bunyip - and you can find him at Gunghalin Library. Check out the truly remarkable ABC cartoon 'Bluey'. For you parents and grandparents out there it provides great parenting tips for toddlers. You can watch episodes on the ABC website or the ABC i-view App for free. Here's a YouTube video of highlights: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h1SgpcIULLY&list=PLUptLdhc0cdHxTE1_ZBNP5ZaPgjePZGWC
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Sun, 12 January 2020
The local Sydney people continue to find it tough going after the arrival of the British. A smallpox epidemic breaks out killing many Indigenous people. Bennelong is captured and Arthur Phillip is speared and recovers from his wound. Arthur Phillip then orders reprisals after the apparently unprovoked killing of John McIntire. Email me at: jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com
Direct download: AHP_102_Sydney_Wars_1789_-90_-_12120_11.28_am.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 11:37am AEST |
Sun, 22 December 2019
Nancy-Bird Walton was one of the great pioneers of flight in Australia. Learn about her remarkable life and achievements. A youtube video aired by the ABC on the day of her funeral can be found at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JjfUSjh-muo
Direct download: AHP101_Nancy-Bird_Walton_-_211219_2.25_pm.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 7:30am AEST |
Sun, 1 December 2019
Episode 100! I never dreamed I would still be going after 100 episodes and 6 years. In this episode we cover Australia becoming a nation. When the six colonies of Australia decided to federate and become a nation in its own right. Thank you to all my listeners for your support and encouragement since I started this little podcast. A big shout out to Laszlo Montgomery from the China History Podcast who started me in this podcasting caper. |
Sun, 17 November 2019
In this episode we cover the history of the Sydney Harbour Bridge – or as local Sydney-siders call it, the coat hanger. The Sydney Harbour Bridge is an iconic bridge that joins the north of Sydney Harbour to the south. At the time of its completion in 1932 it was considered the epitome of modern bridge design and engineering ingenuity
Direct download: AHP_99_Coat_Hanger_-_161119_12.08_pm.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 7:00am AEST |
Sun, 27 October 2019
In this episode we finish our look at Ben Chifley. Chifley spends many years in the political wilderness before being re-elected to Parliament. After the death of John Curtin he becomes Prime Minister. email me at jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com I answer every email.
Direct download: AWP_98_Chifley_Part_3_-_201019_8.01_pm.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 7:30am AEST |
Fri, 11 October 2019
We continue our look at Ben Chifley. Chifley finally gets elected to Federal Parliament and enters the Minsitry as Minister for Defence. But disunity in the Labor Party costs Labor government, and Chifley his seat, all at the hands of Jack Lang. Chifley and Lang become bitter enemies. I was struggling with a sore throat and I bit my tongue (ouch). So bear with my poor delivery in this episode. Email me at jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com
Direct download: AWP97_Ben_Chifley_Part_2_-_30919_7.20_pm.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 7:30am AEST |
Sun, 15 September 2019
In this and the next few episodes we are going to take a look at Ben Chifley. Chifley was born in Bathurst, New South Wales and worked on the NSW Railways for 25 years as an engine driver. Chifley was Australia’s 16th Prime Minister who came to the Prime Ministership in July 1945 following the death of John Curtin. Chifley is an icon in Labor Party history. He is most famously remembered for his ‘light on the hill’ speech. Email me at jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com
Direct download: AWP_96_Ben_Chifley_Part_1_-_8919_7.57_am.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 7:30am AEST |
Sun, 25 August 2019
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people should note that that in this episode I mention the names of people who have or may have passed away. In this episode we look at the life of Oodgeroo Noonuccal or as you might know her Kath Walker. She was a great poet, writer and activist who played a significant role in the 1967 referendum. Email me at jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com. I answer every email.
Direct download: AWP_95_Oodgeroo_noonuccal_-_3082019_7.26_PM.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 7:22am AEST |
Sat, 3 August 2019
I've decided to rename the podcast to the Aussie History Podcast. Thanks to Artistic Visual Design Director Ken Dampier for the new artwork In this episode my good friend Kate joins me to talk cricket and the infamous Bodyline series of the 1930s. Check out Six and Out's cricketing song 'Can't bowl, Can't Throw'. The band was made up of Australian Test and First Class cricketers, including Brett Lee. As a band they made good cricketers. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OcH-unNO7L0
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Sun, 14 July 2019
Would you believe that on the banks of Kati Thanda or Lake Eyre, South Australia, lies the world’s second-largest geoglyph? Did you know that from the 1940s until the 1970s cats lived in the Sydney Harbour Bridge. And finally, were you aware that at the end of WWI a French orphan was smuggled to Australia in a sack by Australian troops?
Direct download: AWP_93_Weird_Hstory_-_6072019_11.41_AM.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 7:00am AEST |
Sun, 23 June 2019
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people should be aware that this episode mentions the names of people who have passed away. At school we learned that the the settlement of New South Wales was a pretty peaceful affair and that the local Aboriginal people accepted the colonists. Also that, where there was conflict, it was very much small scale and out of the ordinary. But was it really like that?
Direct download: Sydney_Wars_1788_to_1789_-_1062019_7.56_AM.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 7:30am AEST |
Sun, 2 June 2019
Bushrangers!! This time it's Captain Moonlite and Jackey Jackey. And we say farewell to the Hon. James Robert Lee Hawke MP, one of Australia's best Prime Ministers who died several days before this episode was recorded. Vale Bob Hawke. Australia is a better place because of you.
Direct download: AHP_92_More_Bushrangers_-_18052019_1.10_PM.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 7:30am AEST |
Sat, 18 May 2019
It's election day today in Australia. As we head to the polls learn about the first woman who is known to have cast a vote in an Australian election - Frances Finch. Would you believe it actually happened in 1856, some 46 years before universal suffrage was introduced in Australia.
Direct download: AWP_90_Fanny_Finch_-_6042019_12.30_PM.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 9:00am AEST |
Thu, 25 April 2019
It's ANZAC Day. Marion Leane Smith is the only known Indigenous Australian woman to service in WWI. Let's learn about her story.
Direct download: AWP89_Marion_Smith_-_23032019_1.05_PM.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 5:30am AEST |
Sun, 31 March 2019
We wrap up our series of episodes into the murder of Donald Mackay. The inquest into the death of Donald Mackay gets underway, Bob Trimbole is finally found and Detective Inspector Ellis goes before the courts. Finally three men are charged over conspiracy to murder Donald Mackay.
Direct download: AWP_88_Giffith_Drug_Wars_and_Donald_Mackay_Pt_3_-_23032019_11.55_AM.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 7:30am AEST |
Sat, 16 March 2019
In this episode we follow the Royal Commission into Drug Trafficking in NSW. The findings from the Royal Commission were explosive and the identities of those responsible for Donald Mackay's murder are revealed at the Inquest into Donald Mackay's murder.
Direct download: AEP_87_Griffith_Drug_Wars_Part_2_-_16032019_4.58_PM.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 5:17pm AEST |
Sun, 17 February 2019
On 15 July 1977, local Griffith businessman Donald Mackay disappeared from the car park of a local hotel. Blood was found on and around his mini-van. And there were three spent .22 bullet casings lying on the ground. This incident led to a Royal Commissioning the illegal drug trade in New South Wales.
Direct download: AWP_54_Griffith_Drug_Wars_-_17022019_12.33_PM.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 12:12pm AEST |
Mon, 28 January 2019
In this episode we complete our look at Edward Eyre, focusing on 'The Great Northern Expedition' where he overlanded from Adelaide to Albany. We also cover his later career, particularly his time as Governor of Jamaica and his role in suppressing the Mount Bay Rebellion. How is it that the 'friend of the Aborigine' became known as the 'monster of Jamaica'?
Direct download: AWP85_Eyre_Part_2_-_28012019_12.05_PM.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 12:22pm AEST |
Sun, 21 October 2018
We finally start our look at Edward John Eyre one of the great explorers of colonial history. Despite his exploits he is largely forgotten these days. In Australia Eyre is often known as the friend and protector of Aborigines. But after his time in Australia he became Governor of Jamaica. Here he brutally put down a local revolt and became known as the 'monster of Jamaica'. A key source for this episode is Ivan Rudolph's book 'Eyre, The Forgotten Explorer'. Thank you to listener Gary for suggesting this topic. So long to my dear friend Glen, a friend of nearly 35 years, who died this week.
Direct download: AWP_84_Edward_Eyre_-_21102018_8.45_AM.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 8:23am AEST |
Sun, 9 September 2018
On 5March 1804, 233 Irish Nationalist convicts led by Phillip Cunningham staged an uprising at Castle Hill in the penal colony of New South Wales. Their plan was to steal a ship and head back to Ireland to rejoin the fight for Irish independence against the British.
Direct download: AWP_83_Castle_Hill_Rebellion_-_1092018_11.31_AM.m4a
Category:History -- posted at: 7:00am AEST |
Sun, 19 August 2018
On 21 June 1966 an assassination attempt was made on Arthur Calwell the leader of the Australian Labor Party and Opposition Leader. It was only the second political assassination attempt in Australian history In this episode we are going to review the life of Arthur Calwell, including the events of June 1966 when an attempt was made on his life by a 19 year old factory worker called Peter Kocan. The common view of Calwell is that he was a racist old style Labor politician. He once said "two Wongs don’t make a White". Calwell was a staunch defender of the White Australia policy, but he also implemented the era of mass migration to Australia in the post-war era.
Direct download: AWP82_Arthur_Calwell_-_19082018_12.23_PM.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 12:29pm AEST |
Sun, 29 July 2018
In this episode we are looking at the Battle of One Tree Hill. This was a battle fought by the Jagera people led by the warrior Multuggerrah in 1843. While Multuggerah and his forces defeated the white settlers it did not end well for a people who had inhabited the Darling Downs region of South East Queensland for some 30-40,000 years.
Direct download: AWP81_One_Tree_Hill_-_29072018_11.34_AM.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 11:42am AEST |
Sun, 8 July 2018
In the early to mid-1970s the NSW Builders Labourers' Federation imposed 'Green Bans' in Sydney. These bans were imposed by the builders labourers employed to construct t office-block skyscrapers, shopping centres and luxury apartments The builder’s labourers refused to work on projects that were environmentally or socially undesirable. The Green Bans movement was the first of its type in the world.
Direct download: AWP80_Green_Bans_-_8072018_11.15_AM.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 11:59am AEST |
Mon, 28 May 2018
Advice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people: this episode refers to people who have or may have passed away. It's Reconciliation Day and we look at the Mabo Case which overturned the concept of Terra Nullius - which was that before white settlement the land was empty and belonged to no one. In its decision, the High Court ruled that native title had existed on Murray Island and throughout Australia since time immemorial and that native title continued to exist where it had not been extinguished. Join me as learn about the Mabo Case and the man behind it all - Eddie Koiki Mabo. |
Sun, 13 May 2018
In this episode we wrap up our take on Ned Kelly. Was he really a larrikin hero? Or should he be more properly remembered as a common criminal and murderer?
Direct download: AWP_78_Ned_Kelly_Part_2_-_5052018_7.39_PM.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 7:00am AEST |
Sun, 6 May 2018
In this and the next episode we will be looking at the life and times of Edward 'Ned' Kelly. We will be asking the question does Ned Kelly deserve his place in Australian culture as a larrikin hero who stood up to the British ruling elite because of oppression faced by him, his family and the broader Irish-Catholic community? Or was he a ruthless criminal and cop killer who deserved what he got? A big warning here: I'm not a Ned Kelly fan!!
Direct download: AWP_77_Ned_Kelly_Part_1_-_29042018_11.36_AM.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 7:00am AEST |
Wed, 25 April 2018
It's ANZAC Day, 25 April 2018. Over the two days, 26 and 27 November 1942, Australian and American servicemen fought a 'battle' against each other on the streets of Brisbane. Find out what caused this little known incident.
Direct download: AWP_76_Battle_of_Brisbane_-_1042018_10.08_AM.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 7:00am AEST |
Sat, 31 March 2018
In this episode we wrap up the assassination attempt on Price Alfred by Henry O'Farrell. We cover O'Farrell's trial, his hanging and ask whether O'Farrell was a Fenian terrorist or a man with significant mental health issues that led him into insanity. We also draw some modern day parallels between the anti-Irish-Catholic sentiment that existed at the time.
Direct download: AWP_75_Prince_and_Assasin_P2_-_31032018_8.37_AM.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 8:11am AEST |
Mon, 12 March 2018
It’s the 12th March 1868 and Prince Alfred, the Duke of Edinburgh and second son of Queen Victoria is visiting Australia. It’s the first ever Royal Tour of the Australian colonies. He is invited by Sydney’s high society to attend a popular picnic spot at Clontarf. But not all is well in Australia. There is sectarian strife between the Irish Catholics and the British Protestant elite. At the picnic an Irishman called Henry James O’Farrell draws his pistol and fires a shot at Prince Alfred. The shot hits the Prince in the back.
Direct download: AWP74_Prince_and_the_Assasin_P1_-_12032018_8.37_PM.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 8:45pm AEST |
Sun, 18 February 2018
Harry "Breaker" Morant was an Australian journalist, poet, drover and military officer. On 27 February 1902 he was executed by the British military for war crimes committed during the Boer War in South Africa. He did it in retaliation for the death of his commanding officer and close friend Captain Percy Hunt.
Direct download: AWP-73-Breaker_Morant_-_18022018_12.30_PM.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 12:41pm AEST |
Sun, 14 January 2018
Welcome to 2018 and Episode 72. It’s summer in Australia and that means cricket. Learn about the extraterrestrial origins of the game of cricket – yes aliens invented cricket. And my friend Kate joins me in this episode to talk about cricket and some of the memorable Ashes clashes between Australia and the old foe England at the WACA Ground. We also talk about cricketing songs and how bad I was at cricket. Be warned!! This is a very long episode. Here’s some YouTube videos of cricketing songs: The 'Come on Aussie Come on' advertisement: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2uBjJAV3CMk Greg Champion’s ‘I made a Hundred in the backyard at Mum’s’: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sjr9Y3oNW-4 Sherbet’s ‘Howzat’: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8EmSanSFXEM Paul Kelly’s ‘Bradman’: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hjZHfEIEJ54 And of course 10CC’s ‘Dreadlock holiday’ – “I don’t like cricket, oh no, I love it!!” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fI2FC36lXXQ Remember you can email me at jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com |
Sat, 16 December 2017
We finally finish our five-part series on the Eureka rebellion. In this episode we see what happened at the trials of the men charged for their role in the rebellion, the outcome of the Committee of inquiry, and just what happened to some of the main players. We also try and get a handle on why it happened in Ballarat and briefly reflect on the legacy of the Eureka rebellion for Australia. Was it really the birthplace of Australian democracy?
Direct download: AWP_71_Eureka_Rebellion_Part_5_-_9072017_12.10_PM.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 7:30am AEST |
Sat, 2 December 2017
It all finally comes to the battle. After a tense stand-off the Government forces finally storm the Eureka Stockade. The diggers are overwhelmed and at the end of it all 22 diggers and 6 soldiers lie dead. Though some put the death toll as high as 60. 13 men are charged with treason, but the key ring leaders including Peter Lalor (who is severely wounded) remain at large. The Victorian population do not take kindly to the Government's actions and there is concern that there might be an uprising.
Direct download: AWP_70_Eureka_Rebellion_Part_4_-_8072017_7.59_PM.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 7:30am AEST |
Sun, 19 November 2017
Happy Birthday to me, Happy Birthday to me! To celebrate here is part four of our five part series on the Eureka Rebellion. Things are hotting up on the Ballarat goldfields and things inch closer to the ultimate battle. Anastasia Hayes and two of her friends sew the southern cross flag - five stars and a white cross on a blue background. Then the diggers engage in a skirmish with the police and Redcoats. On 30 November 1854 the miners meet and there is a mass burning of licenses in protest. The authorities under the command of Commissioner Rede launch another license hunt. The diggers construct a stockade on a hill on the Eureka Diggings. Peter Lalor leads 500 diggers to swear on the southern cross flag to stand by each other and to defend their rights and liberties.
Direct download: AWP_69_Eureka_Part_3_-_8072017_9.46_AM.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 7:30am AEST |
Fri, 20 October 2017
Things are getting crazier and crazier on the Ballarat goldfields. A young miner called James Scobie is murdered and the diggers are outraged when the justice system fails them. Not only that the police rough up Johannes Gregarious the disabled servant of the local Catholic Priest. In retribution the diggers burn down the Eureka Hotel.
Direct download: AWP_68_Eureka_Rebellion_Part_2_-_4072017_8.34_PM.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 9:05am AEST |
Tue, 26 September 2017
It's late 1854 and the Victorian town of Ballarat. A gold rush is on and we are the gold diggings, but things are extremely tense. The gold miners are mounting a strong oppostion against the Victorian Government because of the mining license fee it is imposing. Police are undertaking raids into the miners camps and demanding that miners produce their license. So the miners respond by burning their licenses. On 30 November 1854 a mass burning of licences takes place at Bakery Hill. Under the leadership of Peter Lalor, the diggers march to the Eureka diggings. Here they construct a stockade and inside the stockade some 500 diggers take an oath on the Southern Cross flag Then at dawn on Sunday 3 December the miliatry launch an attack on the stockade. The diggers are outnumbered and the battle is over in twenty minutes. Twenty-two diggers and five troops lie dead. The Eureka rebellion is considered by some to be the birthplace of Australian democracy.
Direct download: AWP_67_Eureka_Part_1_-_1072017_5.02_PM.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 12:12pm AEST |
Fri, 8 September 2017
In this episode we remember the late Peter Richard Woolnough - or as you may know him Peter Allen. Allen was one of Australia's most successful entertainers. Amongst the songs he has written include: I Still Call Australia Home, Tenterfield Saddler, I Go the Rio and The More I see You.
Direct download: AWP_66_Boy_from_Oz_-_24062017_12.22_PM.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 4:54am AEST |
Sat, 19 August 2017
In this episode we look at two more bushrangers, Frank Gardiner and Ben Hall. Both of these Bushrangers plied their trade around the Canberra region in the late 1850s and early 1860s.
Direct download: AWP_65_Bushrangers_not_Ned_Kelly_-_25062017_12.38_PM.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 1:29pm AEST |
Sat, 5 August 2017
In this episode we look at WWII coastal defences around Newcastle and in particular at Tomaree near Port Stephens. Check out the NSW Parks and Wildlife site for Fort Tomaree at: http://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/visit-a-park/parks/tomaree-national-park
Direct download: AWP_64_Guns_of_Tomaree_-_24062017_10.32_AM.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 7:30am AEST |
Sat, 8 July 2017
Jack Lang was twice the Premier of New South Wales and was one of Australia's most controversial politicians. In 1932, at the height of the Great Depression, he was dismissed from office by the NSW Governor Sir Philip Game. He was expelled from the Australian Labor Party in 1942 and only re-admitted to the Labor Party in 1971 a few years before his death. |
Fri, 16 June 2017
At 11 pm on 12 October 2002, three bombs were detonated on the Indonesian resort island of Bali. Two went off in busy nightspots in Kuta – the Sari Club and Paddy’s Bar and the third in front of the American consulate. The explosions killed 202 people, 88 of whom were Australian.
Direct download: AWP62_Bali_bombings_-_29052017_8.43_PM.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 10:19pm AEST |
Thu, 1 June 2017
At the height of the Cold War, in April 1954 Vladimir Petrov a Soviet diplomat sought political asylum in Australia. Petrov, and his wife Evdokia, were working in Canberra at the Soviet Embassy as diplomats. But they were really spies. The incident had a massive impact on Australian politics. It ended the political career of the opposition leader and leader of the Labor Party Dr Herbert 'Doc' Evatt. And it led to a split in the Labor Party when anti-communist elements of the Labor Party, particularly the Catholic groups, split off to form the Democratic Labor Party. Partly as a result Labor languished in opposition until 1972. For those Russian speakers out there, apologies for mangling the pronunciation of Russian names.
Direct download: AWP61_Petrov_Spy_Affair_-_28052017_5.02_PM.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 7:00am AEST |
Fri, 12 May 2017
On 27 May 1967 a referendum to amend the Australian Consitution was held. This month is the 50th anniversary of that referendum, so it’s a good time to remember this important part of Australian history. The referendum allowed Indigenous Australians to be counted in the population and for the Commonwealth Government to make policies in respect to Aboriginal people. |
Tue, 25 April 2017
On 5 August 1944, Japanese prisoners of war staged a breakout from the detention camp in Cowra, New South Wales. Armed with improvised weapons including baseball bats and sharpened mess knives, they stormed the perimeter fences and overcame the machine gun posts. In all 231 Japanese prisoners were killed during the escape attempt. Four Australian soldiers were also killed in the breakout
Direct download: AWP_59_Cowra_POW_Escape_-_1042017_10.45_AM.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 12:30am AEST |
Sat, 1 April 2017
In this episode we look at five inventions you may never have realised were made right here in the land Downunder. These are: spray on skin, the bionic ear or cochlear implant, the black box flight recorder, the pacemaker, and the cervical cancer vaccine. Remember, you can always email me at jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com
Direct download: AWP_58_Aussie_Inventions_-_26032017_8.21_AM.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 7:00am AEST |
Sat, 11 March 2017
Between 1952 and 1963 the British Government carried out 12 major nuclear weapon tests in Australia in the remote Montebello islands and in South Australia at Maralinga and Emu Field. Why did the Australian Government agree to nuclear weapon testing in Australia? Let’s find out! |
Mon, 20 February 2017
Every Australian knows the words to 'Waltzing Matilda'. On the surface it's a song about a swagman who steals a sheep and drowns himself in a billabong to avoid capture. But, it's more than just a quaint bush ballad. Behind the story of the song lies politics, industrial unrest, class divisions and of course economics.
Direct download: AWP56_Waltzing_Matilda_-_8012017_2.25_PM.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 9:57pm AEST |
Tue, 7 February 2017
In this episode we look at a man who was one of the most important people in Australia in the 20th century. But I doubt you have ever heard of him. This man is Herbert Cole Coombs – or as he is most often called – Nugget Coombs.
Direct download: APW55_Nugget_Coombs_-_6012017_7.30_PM.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 8:09pm AEST |
Sun, 15 January 2017
In this episode resume our review of Robert Menzies. Menzies became Prime Minister for a second time on 10 December 1949. Menzies founded the Liberal Party and was the dominant figure in Australian political and social life for the next two decades. Menzies, was in many ways, a paradox. He was 'British to his bootstraps' but under his leadership we began to move closer to the United States and take our place in the Asia Pacific region. His period in office coincided with a long economic boom - but he was a poor economic manager. Love him or loathe him, he was and remains an extremely interesting figure! Here's a link to Robert Menzies in full swing over his love for a young and blushing Queen Elizabeth II: https://youtu.be/6ibGwqMM6uU
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Sun, 1 January 2017
Welcome to 2017! In this episode we recount the early career of Sir Robert Gordon 'Bob' Menzies, Australia’s longest serving Prime Minister. Menzies served as Prime Minister twice –for a total of 18 years and it is still the record term for an Australian Prime Minister. Menzies totally dominated Australian politics and life for the better part of three decades. He dominated Australia so much that his second term as Prime Minister from 1949 to 1966 is often referred to as "the Ming Dynasty. For a truly worthwhile cause visit 'Batting for Change' at https://battingforchange.com.au. Ryan Carters, a young Australian cricketer, is raising money to support education for disadvantaged women and girls in cricket playing nations. You can donate just a dollar per six hit by the Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash League cricket tournament. Since 2013 Ryan has raised over $350,000 and transformed the life of dozens and dozens of women. This year the target is $150,000.
Direct download: AWP_53_Ming_Dynasty_Part_1_-_30122016_8.12_AM.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 8:48am AEST |
Sun, 11 December 2016
In this episode we delve into an extremely controversial period in Australian history – the genocide of the Tasmanian Aborigines. We also look at Truganini, the most famous of the Tasmanian Aborigines. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are advised that this episode contains the names of people who are deceased. Be warned! This is a very long episode by AWP standards.
Direct download: AWP52_Trugannini_-_11122016_10.23_AM.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 10:49am AEST |
Wed, 16 November 2016
It’s back to bushrangers - more bushrangers who were not Ned Kelly. In this episode we will be looking at four bushrangers: Jack Donohoe the ‘Wild Colonial Boy’; Mad Dan Morgan who roamed the Murray Valley area in the 1860s; Martin Cash the 'gentleman bushranger'; and Jimmy Governor – the last of the bushrangers about whom Thomas Keneally wrote his book "The Chant of Jimmy Blacksmith". Email me at jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com.
Direct download: AWP_51_More_Bushrangers_not_Ned_Kelly_-_12112016_8.14_PM.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 9:15pm AEST |
Fri, 28 October 2016
Episode 50 - half a century! In this episode we cover Ronald Ryan’s hanging and the public outcry that accompanied his execution. We then ask did Ryan really kill prison warder George Hodson? Check out this excellent 15 minute documentary on the Ryan execution: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sDyFJqru9UI Also this website that seeks to prove Ryan's innocence: http://www.ronaldryan.info Email me at: jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com
Direct download: AWP50_Ronald_Ryan_Part_2_-_19102016_7.06_PM.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 7:36pm AEST |
Fri, 21 October 2016
At 8.00 a.m. on 3 February 1967 Ronald Joseph Ryan was hanged in Pentridge gaol in Melbourne for the murder of a prison officer named George Henry Hodson. He had been found guilty of shooting Hodson with a rifle he had taken off another prison guard while escaping from prison. Ronald Ryan was the last person to be executed in Australia. Email me at: jamesdampier.awp@gmail.com
Direct download: AWP_49_Ronald_Ryan_Part_1_-_8102016_8.37_PM.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 10:27pm AEST |
Sat, 8 October 2016
On Fathers Day, the 2nd September R 1984, there was a shoot out between two rival motorcycle gangs at a British motorcycle swap meet in the Western Sydney suburb of Milperra. The shoot out had its origin in a bitter split within the Comancheros and Bandidos motorcycle or bikie gangs. At the end of the shoot out seven people were dead,including a 15 year old girl who was just standing by. Check out the 60 Minutes documentary on the massacre – done in 2014 on the 30th anniversary
Direct download: AWP48_MIlperra_Bikie_Massacre_-_29092016_8.20_PM.mp3
Category:History -- posted at: 8:56am AEST |