Ned Kelly

Apparently they found Ned Kelly’s remains today. Move along, nothing to see here.

While the discovery of a national legend’s leftovers would ordinarily be huge news, we’re not sold in this case. Why not? Because Ned has rarely been out of the news for the 130 years he’s been dead, that’s why not.

And Ned’s not alone. Many people in public life do their most productive and newsworthy work years after slipping from this mortal coil. We’ve come up with 10, but we invite you to add your suggestions.

Continue reading "Ten dead people who stubbornly refuse to die" »

“Such is life ... ” were said to be Ned Kelly’s immortal words when he died by hanging after being captured in Glenrowan on this day in 1880 - an event that contributed to his enduring notoriety.  But just like Kelly himself, that doesn’t always make for a happy ending.

A recent news report claimed that people bearing tribute tattoos with the same slogan, were eight times more likely to be murdered and three times more likely to kill themselves. Happy days ...

It’s Tuesday at The Punch. What’s on your mind?

As I attended the celebrations for the canonisation of St. Mary of the Cross MacKillop in Melbourne, there was a man shouting for the recognition of Ned Kelly as the real saint of Australia.

Though one could laugh this off, these cries (upon reflection) brought to light a stark contrast - between the narrative of the Catholic Church and the mythology of modern Australia.

Australians continue to venerate Ned Kelly as the exemplar of the Aussie battler whose rebelliousness, courage and egalitarianism supposedly characterise our history and identity.

Continue reading "Saint or sinner ... who makes a better Aussie icon?" »