The AustralianIn this episode, we delve into the dark and grisly world of the Cannibal Bushrangers, a gang of outlaws that included Thomas Jeffries, Mark Jeffries, and John O'Meally, who were notorious for their willingness to resort to cannibalism. We also explore the chilling story of Alexander Pearce, a convict who became one of the most feared and reviled figures in early Australian history due to his cannibalistic tendencies.

Using contemporary sources and folklore, we examine the origins of these infamous figures, their gruesome crimes, and the broader historical context of convict life in Australia, including the harsh conditions faced by settlers in the bush, and the brutality of life in the penal colonies. With a focus on engaging storytelling and historical insight, this episode offers a captivating and sobering look at some of the most disturbing figures in Australian criminal history.


Main Theme music – Kevin MacLeod
"Slow Ticking Clock" – Kevin MacLeod
Used under a Creative Commons license.

Sources cited:
Hobart Town Gazette and Van Diemen's Land Advertiser. 1822. "Government and General Orders." May 18. Accessed August 4, 2021. https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/1089700.

The Hobart Town Gazette. 1824. "The Supreme Court of Van Diemen's Land." June 25. Accessed August 4, 2021. https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/1090236.

Colonial Times and Tasmanian Advertiser. 1826. "Launceston News." January 27. Accessed August 4, 2021. https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/2447063.

The Argus. 1905. "Tasmanian Bushrangers." September 27. Accessed August 4, 2021. https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/9886289.

Colonial Times and Tasmanian Advertiser. 1826. "The Late Bushrangers." May 5. Accessed August 4, 2021. https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/2447678.