In this episode, we explore the stories of two remarkable women who defied societal norms and made their mark on Australian history: Mary Ann Bugg and Jessie Hickman. Mary Ann was a skilled horsewoman and bushranger who teamed up with the infamous Captain Thunderbolt, while Jessie was known as the "Lady Bushranger" and operated in the Victorian goldfields. Both women were known for their daring exploits and their ability to outsmart the authorities, and their stories challenge traditional ideas about gender roles and women's place in society.

Using contemporary sources and folklore, we delve into the details of their lives and the wider historical context in which they lived, shedding light on the complexities of life in colonial Australia. With a focus on engaging storytelling and historical insight, this episode offers a fascinating and inspiring look at two of Australia's most intriguing historical figures.


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

Sources cited:
Burin, Margaret. 2014. "Australia's lady bushranger: the life of Jessie Hickman sparks film industry interest." ABC North Coast, December 3. Accessed August 5, 2021. https://www.abc.net.au/local/photos/2014/12/03/4141124.htm.

Scanlon, Mike. 2014. "Out of the mists: Search for the truth about Elizabeth Jessie Hickman." The Newcastle Herald, October 10. Accessed August 5, 2021. https://www.newcastleherald.com.au/story/2614913/the-hunters-lady-bushranger/.

The Grenfell Record and Lachlan District Advertiser. 1927. "Thunderbolt's Wife." October 13. Accessed August 5, 2021. https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/115901446.

The Maitland Mercury and Hunter River General Advertiser. 1866. "Capt. Thunderbolt, alias Ward, the Bushranger." March 29: 2. Accessed August 5, 2021. https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/18712031.

Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative. 1905. "Death of Mrs Burrows." April 27: 13. Accessed August 5, 2021. https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/157688248.