Remembrance Day For Ned
From: Lisa [captain1@ozemail.com.au] 11 Nov 11
Rest In Peace dear brave Ned. You will never ever be forgotten.

Richard Hart father of Steve
From: Anne Willoughby [annewilloughby@hotmail.com] 29 Oct 11
Does anyone have information on the parents of Steve Hart? I am trying to work out if Steve's father Richard could possibly be Richard Harding alias Hart, Irish Convict born in Dublin c1817. This Richard was transported on the "Lady McNaughton" in 1835 and assigned to J Hume in Yass. He received his TOL for the Goulburn area in 1840. I believe Richard Harding alias Hart's brother was Nicholas Hart, transported in 1833 on the "Royal Admiral". If someone could point me in the right direction to find out more about Steve Hart's parents that would be great!

re. Ned's Possessions
From: Lisa [captain1@ozemail.com.au] 28 Oct 11
Hi Alan,I very much hope you are right and that Ned's neckerchief & ring are kept together somewhere,that would be very lovely if they are.Even if people outside Ned's family might not ever know & that (if true) they may not ever be on display etc,I just hope it is true & that they are kept to this day.It would be so wonderful for them to have been given back to Ned's family.Like you said Alan,Ned took alot of care to have those two very handsome photographs taken.So the ring must be special to him.That is very interesting re the Gaol rules regarding prisoners not being allowed to have jewellery etc.Perhaps Governor Castieau made an exception with Ned,as he seemed to have liked him.I remember reading also that prisoners usually had to have their hair & beards shaved off too,but Ned was allowed to keep his beautiful locks.Perhaps th at was due to the Governor also? Yes it is really interesting to wonder where the ring came from as (like you said) the Police took practically everything from Ned at Glenrowan,not to mention the Doctor who pinched the poor buggers sash.I'm just so glad that Ned was allowed to keep the ring with him.Perhaps it was a message to someone? Perhaps his Mum was allowed to give it to him? Or Maggie? Either way,there is something very sweet about it I think.Whenever I look at those two portraits of Ned it is so amazing to me that at such an unbelievable time & the situation he was in,he was still thinking of doing for others,to have those fantastic portraits taken for his family & friends.At a time when most people would be collapsed in a corner,he was still thinking of others before himself,a way to help soothe them.His bravery is just incredible to say the least.A truly amazing man,who could and should have been anything.

re. Ned's Possessions
From: Alan Crichton [rcr87285@bigpond.net.au] 23 Oct 11
Hi Lisa, I also am intrigued with the ring Ned is wearing in this photograph. Where did that ring come from, and how was it that Ned was able to wear jewellery in a penal institution? From what I’ve been told, gaol authorities stripped all prisoners of personal possessions on entry to the gaol. In Extracts from Gaol Regulations and General Orders printed in 1914 for N.S.W prisons it states: All prisoners, upon their reception in gaol, shall be duly searched, and all property taken from them, and into the charge of the Governor. ..." I assume this would also apply to Victoria, and doubt if regulations from 1880 to 1914 would have changed that much. At Glenrowan, police stripped Ned of his last threepence, a Geneva watch, his boots, and thanks to Doc Nicholson, his green and gold sash. Ned was bloody lucky to still keep his pants on. On the 10th November, probably during his midday exercise according to Ian Jones, Ned is photographed by the gaol’s photographer, Nettleton . The two photographs were requested by Ned for the benefit of his family. That same afternoon Ned is allowed visitations from his mother Ellen, his brother Jim, sisters Kate and Grace, and cousins Tom Lloyd and Kate Lloyd, not to mention the Gaol’s governor Castieau and his snotty son, Godfrey. At five past ten the next morning, Ned Kelly’s life has been extinguished at the end of a rope. As the body slowly revolved, the light caught a plain ring on his right hand. This was reported by the Bendigo Independent on 12/11/1880(Ian Jones, A Short Life). This report must have been accurate as the reporter could not have possibly seen the photograph of Ned taken by Nettleton only the day before the execution. If I may be so bold to assume the gaol authorities have followed regulations, and Ned was not wearing that ring when he was interned, who gave it to him for that photograph, and why was it so important for Ned to be photographed wearing it the day before he’s to be hanged and after death? Maybe that photograph was actually taken after his family visitation and not “probably during his midday exercise” as stated by Ian Jones. If this is the case, did a member of his family smuggle the ring in? I’d lay money it wasn’t Castieau. Ned has gone to great lengths in his presentation for this last image of himself. His neatly combed hair, neckerchief, and well placed, ring adorned, right hand make it a very posing and intriguing image. I’m not sure Lisa, but I believe that ring and neckerchief are together, and treasured in a small cardboard box.

re. Thoughts on Ned's Resting Place
From: Barry Doolan [barry.doolan1@bigpond.com] 23 Oct 11
As a relation on Ned's maternal side of the family I would like that Ned be buried at Greta Cemetry where his mother is buried. Ned's grand parents were my gr-gr grandparents. I would rather that not such a big fuss be made of his burial but that is probably out of the question . Ned R.I.P.

Ned's Possessions
From: Lisa [captain1@ozemail.com.au] 26 Sep 11
When I look at the absolutely perfect full length photograph of Ned (where he looks to be winking at the camera) taken on November 10th, I often wonder about the ring he is clearly wearing in the photo. It is very sad to think of, but it was mentioned by newspaper articles at the time that Ned was wearing the ring afterwards on November 11th. So he must not have given it to anyone as shown in The Last Outlaw. I've often wondered and hoped that the ring might have been returned to Ned's family? I guess it is a long shot in hoping so, as the authorities never seemed to bother much in going out of their way, and also with the fact that other people who were meant to help, (like the Doctor at Glenrowan who stole Ned's sash from him while he lay there badly wounded) tended to do the opposite of helping, other than themselves. But I do remember reading that a flowered handkerchief of Ned's was kept, which is very lovely. I just always wondered what might have become of the ring. It would be wonderful for it to have been returned to Ned's family, it would have been such a lovely keepsake for them.

Ned Kelly's Avenel Farm
From: Carolyn Steers [steersrobin@netspace.net.au] 20 Sep 11
HELP!! We are the owners of NedKelly's farm at Avenel. The land is situated inside the town boundary and is a very popular tourist attraction. The land is in titles of 5 acres and we have them for sale our intention was to retain it's original title size to maintain the historical importance of the site. One block was sold and we have been informed that the Shire of Strathbogie is considering a planned sub-division of 4 home sites, thus the Kelly farm will become a sea of homes and it's historical significance will be lost. We need your help. Please e-mail me will your objection and I will forward it to the Shire.

Ned Commercial
From: Lisa [captain1@ozemail.com.au] 11 Sep 11
There is a cute Ned ad on foxtel promoting a show about the history of beer in Australia,which shows Ned having a beer.

Ned Kelly
From: Matt B [flea_58@hotmail.com] 08 Sep 11
Hey mate i am 16 and i have read basicly everything related to ned kelly that i can find. i look at your website about 7 times a week and it is the best one out there. i am complety fasinated with the ned kelly story and everything related to it. i was just wondering if you could answer a few questions for me if that is not to much trouble? I was reading a short life and i saw that ned had a photo taken in beachworth known as the gentleman photo but i can't find it anywhere do you also know where dan kelly's prison photo is? Also any information that you could tell me about the ned kelly story i would love. Thank you for reading this and have a good day! Yes, the Gentleman Ned photo left a few 'experts' with more than just egg on their collective faces...

re. Thoughts on Ned's Resting Place
From: Lisa [captain1@ozemail.com.au] 07 Sep 11
I think it goes without saying that Ned SHOULD be able to be allowed to Rest In Peace at Greta with his family and friends like he wanted to in the first place. His family today SHOULD be able to do that for him without the slightest worry that he will ever be disturbed again. Of course they SHOULD be able to, no question. But like Ellen said, it is very sad that in the not too distant past things have gone on. While it wouldn't even enter the head of most of us to disturb a persons final resting place,unfortunately there are some disgraceful people out there who would. As it has been very sadly done before at Greta & Benalla, it would be absolutely heartbreaking if Ned was disturbed again, he has had way too much of that already. I do not envy the Kelly family on their upcoming decision,as it is such a very big and important on e to say the least. It is horrible that anyone should have to worry about a relatives final resting place being disturbed,it's hard to believe anyone would ever even think of doing such a thing,but these idiots are out there, and it is these morons who will make this an even tougher decision for Ned's family. With Ned being so high profile it is a great worry, and it is disgraceful that it should have to be. I wish the Kelly family all the best with their decision for Ned.

re. Thoughts on Ned's Resting Place
From: Mick Fitzsimons [mickfitzsimons@hotmail.com] 07 Sep 11
If the family decide on the Greta cemetery (or any for that matter), I would suggest it be kept secret and the government and associated bodies give an undertaking to not release details of Ned’s remains being given to the family for ‘at least’ 12 months, or even longer. It would be great to have a marked grave, though the associated problems with vandalism/desecration are a huge problem. Just to eventually know the cemetery, I believe would be enough, given that other members of the family are also there. It is the place, not the marker that is important. I know from experience with family members in unmarked graves, where records have been lost. The only problem would be is how the grave would be recorded in the cemetery records.

re. Thoughts on Ned's Resting Place
From: Ellen Hollow [tonelly@bigpond.com] 07 Sep 11
I like your optimism Warren! I wish I could think along those lines, but sadly with what has happened in the not too distant past I remain pessimistic.

Victorian Police Association
From: Mick Fitzsimons [mickfitzsimons@hotmail.com] 07 Sep 11
Peter Haynes and Brad are spot on about Victorian Police Association president Greg Davies. If he knows anything of the Kelly Outbreak, one would think he would want to distance himself and his association from the corrupt and brutal police force of the day. If he is well versed in the story, then it just goes to show that things haven’t changed much within Victoria Police and they hold these early thugs in high regard and as role models, hence the current state of Victoria Police. Remember their motto, “It’s better to convict an innocent man, than no man at all”.  Pete's obviously never visited our Real Villains page...

Ned's Final Resting Place
From: Ellen Hollow [tonelly@bigpond.com] 06 Sep 11
Having returned Sunday from a wonderful five months in Europe to the news of Ned’s Bones and a swag of telephone messages I am asking for some assistance. The Kelly descendants need to come to a consensus about the possible resting place for the remains. That is IF the powers that be agree to return them. I have agreed to be the contact person for Kate’s Family . I have also agreed to pass on to Paul Griffiths any messages coming through me from Grace’s line. I will also do the same for Maggies line. I sent an email messages to many direct descendants of the Kelly girls. However, some emails have bounced, there for there have been address changes since last contact. Would direct family please contact me at tonelly@bigpond.com and I will keep you informed and in the loop. Your input is important and if we do not pull together and stay united, others will make decisions we probably will not be happy with.

Thoughts on Ned's Resting Place
From: Warren Trick [warrentrick@bigpond.com] 06 Sep 11
The day before Ned was hanged, he dictated a letter to John Castieau the Governor of the Melbourne Gaol. Resigned to his fate, he simply asked that after his execution his body be given to friends for burial in consecrated grounds. We all know that his request fell on deaf ears, that shouldn't be the case in 2011. What are your thoughts on his remains being laid to rest, once and for all, in the old Greta cemetary, where I believe his mother, brother and other kinfolk lie, albeit in unmarked graves ? Forty years ago I was told that the Kelly relatives all knew where their ancestors lay and that headstones and other references to their last resting places were removed to avoid desecration and unwanted attention. I don't believe that that would happen now. Let the remains be put to rest with the dignity they were never afforded in the past.

Joe Byrne sketch
From: Diane Boyne [dihard02@optusnet.com.au] 06 Sep 11
Hi I would be very interested in speaking with someone who knows something about sketches done of the Kelly gang. I have what I have been told is an original sketch of Joe Byrne when he was propped against the door at Benella lock up. Thanking you in advance.

Independent Australia report on Ned
From: Lisa [captain1@ozemail.com.au] 05 Sep 11
What a very interesting article Brad. I wonder if it will be possible for the Kelly family, or someone on their behalf, to request that investigations at both the Australian Institute Of Anatomy & the Medical School at Melbourne University could be conducted? You would think that with the current high media attention that something could be done for the family, and have these places be made to thoroughly look into their archives. If there is any chance of this being true, then the investigation must continue for Ned, and these two Institutes should be made to look into it. As it is only right that Ned finally be laid to rest with the dignity he deserves. It is heartbreaking to think that his personal self could still be out there being treated like a trophy somewhere. Ned has been denied too much for too long. Give his family th e chance to let him Rest In Peace forever. The best case scenario would be to bury Ned's bones, skull and brain all at the same time

Deciding Ned Kelly's Last Resting Place
From: Peter (Stinger) Nettleton [stinger@iinet.net.au] 05 Sep 11
Dorothy Brown wrote: "Lets hope that all the families are included as to Ned's resting place. There are a few on his mother's side, and one on his father's side". I suggest using the decision-making process popular among our indigenous brothers and sisters. Gather all those claiming to be descendants on either side (anthropological research may be warranted) together, close them off from outside influences and sit them down until they reach a consensus decision. It may take time, but a simple majority vote is always going to leave someone dissatisfied.

re. SBS's Ned's head
From: Lisa [captain1@ozemail.com.au] 04 Sep 11
Tonight's documentary was very interesting, and also very sad. I had to look away for alot of it though, as some parts were very upsetting and graphic. The work the scientists did was incredible, the way they are able to find out things today is really unbelievable. All the people involved looked to be very respectful of Ned which was great. Thank you to all the scientists, researchers and Leigh Olver for making it possible in finding dear Ned.

SBS's Ned's head
From: Michael Foley [panzer17@optusnet.com.au] 04 Sep 11
Overall the SBS documentary was highly enlightening and remarkably showed that there are still hidden treasures to be found in the archives that positively add to the Kelly story. The connection to Deeming and Jack The Ripper served only to pad the program out. It was a pointless diversion, unsubstantiated and amateurish. Linking Deeming to the Ripper via his venereal disease and modus operandi totally ignored the fact that in two of the Ripper's victims, Catherine Eddowes and Mary Kelly, both horribly mutilated, considerable surgical skill was required to inflict the injuries that caused death and subsequent removal of organs. However, one aspect of the whole program could not be faulted and contributed to its overall interest and appeal - no Alex McDermott. Yes, give me Nearly Ned over that Ranga any day!

re. Ned Kelly's Remains Found
From: Peter Haynes [pjh19622000"yahoo.com.au] 04 Sep 11
Debate has already turned to whether, given his crimes, Kelly should be buried and thereby become a tourist attraction. Victorian Police Association president Greg Davies certainly doesn't think so. "His descendants have the right and the responsibility to do what they see fit," Mr Davies said. "But let's remember he's a triple murderer. Let's not create a shrine where the feeble-minded can go and lionise someone who clearly doesn't deserve to be." }} It appears by the above statements, some modern day Victorian Police are yet to acknowledge the wrong doing of some of their members during the Kelly years and their actions which contributed to the events that occurred. The actions of some of the Police at the time were despicable, and should be remembered. Feeble minded people who choose to ignore history or even try and rewrite it are more of a concern to myself, than those that wish to visit the final resting place of a man such as Ned Kelly. Davies is yet another ignorant public servant who obviously struggles to understand anything that's not a command or being fed to him on a dish. His little brain either cannot or will not address the ongoing problems of the Victorian Police Force. Much easier to blame someone else...

re. Ned Kelly's Remains Found
From: Lisa [captain1@ozemail.com.au] 01 Sep 11
I have just read a very disturbing report that said the Victorian Government want to put Ned on display.No! PLEASE do not let that happen. How dare they want to just treat him like an object. They are just as bad as the ghouls back in Ned's day who treated him so horribly afterwards. This cannot be allowed to happen! Leave him alone! Let him Rest In Peace! This is a huge worry. There are so many idiots out there. The Victorian Government or anyone else has no right to interfere with Ned. It is up to his relatives and no one else. If I were a Kelly descendant I would vote for a very respectful cremation and to quietly let the dear man go in the ranges of the Kelly Country.

re. Ned Kelly's Remains Found
From: Tony [tonybrownmusic@hotmail.com] 01 Sep 11
It's fraught with sensationalism which ever way you look at it. I don;t like to see him end up in a museum like some extinct parrot but on the other hand a burial will probably end up with trophy hunters desecrating the place. Amazing eh? 130 years on and he's still making headlines.

re. Ned Kelly's Remains Found
From: Sherallee Schubert [nedkellygang1880@live.com.au] 01 Sep 11
I could not believe my ears on the news about the DNA test on the bones that proved to be Neds. I thought this would never happen! This is the best thing to happen since Ned and the boys were still alive. Now our dearest Ned can rest in peace at last all be it that his scull is still missing. Who ever has the skull if they know it is Neds for sure they should return it now that the rest of Neds bones are found. They have no right to keep it. Dear Ned, rest in peace at last 'ol man.

re. Ned Kelly's Remains Found
From: Dorothy Brown [paupton@optusnet.com.au] 01 Sep 11
Lets hope that all the families are included as to Ned's resting place. There are a few on his mother's side, and one on his father;s side. Rest in peace in Ned.

re. Ned Kelly's Remains Found
From: Michele Eve [michele.eve@googlemail.com] 01 Sep 11
Fantastic to hear the news about the identification of Ned's bones. At last. May he finally rest in peace. Was sitting in my kitchen drinking the first cup of tea of the day when I heard on BBC Radio 4. Cheers Ned.

re. Ned Kelly's Remains Found
From: Peter (Stinger) Nettleton [stinger@iinet.net.au] 01 Sep 11
I suspect the lobbying done on this site had a lot to do with this outcome. Congratulations to all concerned. Legally of course, no-one can own a dead body. The immediate family are usually left to make decisions within health and shire regulations, but this would have to be considered an exceptional case. For mine, I can't see how there could be any other choice but Greta Cemetery with those of his loved ones as the final resting place. I know that will cause someone a security headache, but hey, he's worth it. Now for that wayward skull! The axe box, or what is left of it, could probably join the other relics in the Melbourne Public Library gallery.

re. Ned Kelly's Remains Found
From: Lisa [captain1@ozemail.com.au] 01 Sep 11
What amazing news! I have been crying & smiling about the news that broke today regarding Ned. It is really wonderful for all the Kelly family & most of all for Ned. There is a huge decision coming up for the Kelly family & it is of course theirs alone to make. I know they will put Ned first and make the right decision for him. No matter what though Ned isn't (and never has been) in those horrible places of Melbourne & Pentridge Gaols, he is in the places he loves the most and is untouchable. Rest in Peace dear brave Ned. You will always be loved & remembered forever. He is eternally in the ranges of his beloved Kelly Country.

re. Ned Kelly's Remains Found
From: Tony [tonybrownmusic@hotmail.com] 01 Sep 11
Just heard that ned's remains have been officially identified through D.N.A. This sounds..if the reports are correct...that it will put to bed one of the great mysteries of the legend. Apparently they have contacted the relative who gave the D.N.A. sample to see what he wants to do with the bones... How do we send him off ? How indeed? Personally, it should be up to his extended family, not just Mr Olver to work out...

Ned Kelly's Remains Found
From: Scot McPhie [scot@mango-a-gogo.com] 01 Sep 11
Ned's remains (minus his skull) have been positively identified at Pentridge. Hopefully he'll get a respectful burial now.

re. Ned Kelly Beechworth Weekend
From: Lisa [captain1@ozemail.com.au] 27 Aug 11
Thank you very much Alan for the great review of the Ned Kelly Weekend.Like all your write ups,it was a very interesting & funny read.Thanks again. :)

re. Ned Kelly Beechworth Weekend
From: Noelene Allen [pintojody@gmail.com] 11 Aug 11
Hi Brad, I would like to thank all those people who supported me and came to my talk, I hope they all enjoyed it. Congratulations to Paul for his talk on Saturday it was really interesting and he told it so well. The food was good too and the atmosphere in the cellar at the Nicholas Hotel really suited the story Paul was telling us all. Great to catch up with the “family” on Friday night. It is disappointing to hear that 2011 may be the last Beechworth Ned Kelly Weekend and as you would appreciate it really saddens me after all the years of hard work from a committed band of people that no one is prepared to continue to celebrate the anniversary of one of Beechworth’s and Australia’s most historical events. I can appreciate that the volunteers are tired as so many of them have put in so much to keep the weekend going over a number of years. It was disappointing not to see Indigo Shire Council Tourism staff at the weekend events supporting the volunteers who ran the weekend. When the Ned Kelly Weekend was revived in 2002 the intention was to fill a gap in the events calendar in Beechworth with the intention of assisting accommodation operators, retail operators etc to draw visitors during one of the quiet times for visitors. We achieved this intention for a number of years, maybe the Council and the Beechworth Chamber of Commerce don’t need to attract visitors anymore but I doubt it or maybe they don’t realise the importance of the historical events they are so fortunate to have at their doorstep. I am sure there is another “Kelly Town” just waiting to snap up the opportunity to attract the number of visitors a well planned and executed weekend can bring to a town. It has happened in Beechworth in the past and with the right support it can again. Again thanks everyone and I hope we will all get together again next year to enjoy a weekend of friendship, camaraderie and to share our love of history.

re. Ned Kelly Beechworth Weekend
From: Lola Rowe nee Lloyd [lolarowe@gmail.com] 08 Aug 11
A great weekend, maybe a little quieter than 2010. But it is what you make it ... Lets get behind it with goodwill to all.

re. Ned Kelly Beechworth Weekend
From: Paul O'Keefe [paul@neducate.com.au] 08 Aug 11
This years event was always going to be low key compared to the previous year. I had a great weekend as usual catching up with good friends and some of my extended family. I really think the Indigo Shire and the Beechworth Chamber of Commerce are the ones that any criticism should be directed towards. I'm amazed these two organisations wouldn't throw everything at their disposal to maximise numbers to this three day event for the town. You only have to look at recent press reports of the state of the retail sector (nationally) and how businesses are really struggling. Any regional town would kill to have an event like this on their calender. The obvious lack of support and resources forwarded to these volunteers that worked tirelessly (for free) over the weekend was a disgrace. I really feel sorry for them as they tried their best as they could under the circumstances. (I also understand many were seriously ill throughout the year as well which depleted their ranks) What also disappoints me is the lack of the vocal majority of the so called "Kelly Enthusiasts" that don't support this once a year event, but brag about how passionate they are about "the story" on this and other websites and forums and then don't actually turn up to support it WTF? Some bizarrely living only a few hours drive from Beechworth. Stinger, I'm not overly worried about the "carnivalisation" of the event as long it's done with some respect. It's an amazing story that should be commemorated. I personally think there should be more of emphasis to attract more families and to encourage the Kids of all ages to participate, they are vital for the future for the Kelly legend to continue (more free of charge events- that are all sponsored) Get some prac teachers from the College, Get a large tent, have Cardboard Helmet making, Period school lessons, GingerNed baking, Nedplaster painting etc. Stinger, with your love of performing I think you could be perfect as the founding member of the "Iron Wiggles" ....now that would be entertaining! Well said POK, funny how all the big mouths never bothered to show their heads at Beechworth this year...

Ned's Head Again
From: Peter (stinger) Nettleton [stinger@iinet.net.au] 05 Aug 11
Heard on the ABC Local Radio News here in Broome FNWA this evening that the 'Baxter Skull' has been tested and found to be indeed over 100 years old. Then there was some bullsh about the Coroner not being able to carry out any further testing on it because it is so old. WTF? They do DNA tests on neanderthals, don't they? I seem to recall there is evidence on this very website that the Coroner also now has custody of the rest of Ned's bones, it's just that they are mixed up with a heap of others retrieved from Pentridge before it was turned into townhouses. For pity's sake, can't someone in the Victorian government (or opposition) take a stand and DNA test the skull and all the other bones? It should be easy enough to match Ned's DNA from the bloodstains on the 'green sash' or the boot currently on display in the Melbourne Public Library. Maybe then his remains can be reunited and delivered to his descendants for a long-delayed decent burial in Greta Cemetery. PS: Brad, I will discuss this with Steve Hawke as soon as he is free from his theatrical endeavours.

re. Ned Kelly Beechworth Weekend
From: Steve Crundwell [steve.crundwell@akama.com] 05 Aug 11
Hey, I remember a Charlie Showers from Beechworth when I was there last year so he is indeed real (his name stuck in my mind due to his uncanny resemblance to Gollum from the Lord of the Rings trilogy). Hope that description helps if you need to track him down. I'll be arriving there on Saturday to listen to Mr O'Keefe's talk so we can search for the Shower guy after that. See you all in Beechworth! Let's clear this up once and for all. The Council needs to hire a full time Events Coordinator for the entire Shire. I have no issue with the undermanned volunteer committees trying to get this weekend up and running. My issue has always been with the so called 'organisers', namely the Council and their paid representatives holding the purse strings. An action packed weekend would benefit a large number of businesses in the greater community and further increase the reputation of Beechworth as Victoria's premier tourist town. The Council needs to coordinate an official event production and not simply leave it up to local societies or clubs to try and nut out the logistics in their spare time. A properly funded event supported by innovative and entertaining presentations promoted through the correct media channels would be a gold-mine for the town. P.S. It seems Showers is 'real' as he's now sent me his 'proper' email address charles.showers@dse.vic.gov.au although I'm guessing it's been ripped it off some unsuspecting user's account.

re. Ned Kelly Beechworth Weekend
From: Charlie Showers [charlie.showers@gmail.com] 04 Aug 11
Dear Iron Outlaw, as I understand you live locally thus why are you not on the organising committee? For one so critical I expect to see you volunteering your time and expertise next year and offering numerous ideas on how to improve the weekend. From my take it seems as though your ego has taken a hit with the Ned Kelly Weekend organisers seemingly overlooking the bastion of all things Kelly ..... ironoutlaw.com, how dare they not acknowledge your importance. Did you ever write to the organising committee offering your services? The vast majority of people attending the Kelly weekend are not passionate Kelly followers, they are general folk going for a drive to lap up a little bit of history. As good as your website is, only a very small number of those attending the weekend would ever have been to ironoutlaw.com I love your website and your passion for all things Kelly however some of your comments are just plain ridiculous, take this for example: "Yep, not their greatest idea. Just highlights the 'brain-drain' problem facing country towns across Australia. All the great marketing and promotion people live in the city so what's left behind are 'organisers' who are either on their way up, or on their way down. In this instance, it's the latter..." With comments and an attitude like that why would an event organiser even waste their time communicating with you, there is clearly a chip on your shoulder. Well done I say to the volunteer committee, Beechworth is a small town with 5 major festivals during the year with volunteers carrying every single event, there is only so much that can get done. To you ironoutlaw, I challenge you next year to leave the ego behind, roll up your sleeves, contact the committee, genuinely offer your help and ensure that 2012 is the best Kelly Weekend ever. Otherwise I suggest going to Glenrowan, Euroa or Jerilderie and start another event as you think it should be done. As Peter says isn't it time we "grew up, pooled our energies and just enjoyed the yarns, the debates and the fellowship of paying homage to a national legend" Yeah 'Charlie' (I wish I could hide behind an anonymous gmail account) I live local, if you count residing 275klm away in Melbourne! The amount of publicity (and money) this weekend could generate for Beechworth is mind boggling, even for a simpleton like you, so why can't the 'organisers' throw some coin towards a proper event company running the show? If you want some budget tips I suggest you fork out $14.95 and buy the 'Events for Dummies' book. Better yet come along to the Hibernian this Friday night and I'll give you some free tips face-to-face. Naturally you won't be there because 'Charlie' doesn't exist. Is it just another weak-minded fool hiding behind a false name, too scared to come out of the basket?

re. Ned Kelly Beechworth Weekend
From: Peter (Stinger) Nettleton [stinger@iinet.net.au] 03 Aug 11
Despite living in remote WA, I have attended the last 3 Kelly Weekends, the last 2 as a performer. Over that time, I have noticed something of a schism in the ranks of my fello 'Ned-nerds'. The first year (2008) we all got into the spirit of the stories and 'conferred' long and hard together. The second year, there was controversy over the (apparent) undue emphasis on the police point of view. Last year, there were 'invitation only' events and expensive cocktail receptions at which certain 'outlaws' were ironically conspicuous by their absence. This year, I decided to give it a rest (and I wasn't invited back anyway:(). Could it be that the old rivalries between the 'sympathisers' and the 'loyalists' have been reignited, with old wounds reopened and old scores still unsettled? Is there to be another fisticuffs on the banks of the river? Will more blood be spilt over the coffin of Aaron Sherritt? (Sorry - got a bit carried away there!) While I respect the rights of the descendants to resist having their family history 'carnivalised', isn't it about time the rest of us grew up, pooled our energies and just enjoyed the yarns, the debates and the fellowship of paying homage to a national legend? This is actually our 6th year for the Ironoutlaw Dinner and the Hibernian feed has always been open to anyone. However, we've never spotted you there Stinger as you always seem to be 'busy'...

re. Ned Kelly Beechworth Weekend
From: Lisa [captain1@ozemail.com.au] 01 Aug 11
Wow that is really disappointing to read that the event organisers are 'playing this years event down' and that they have never contacted Iron Outlaw in any way to help promote the NK weekend etc. I just don't understand it. With hearing that, and the fact that this years program was very late in organising, it almost sounds like the organisers kind of can't be bothered. I really hope that isn't true, as like many others, we love the Ned Weekend & are very grateful it is on each year. I just hope the event organisers stay enthusiastic about it and that the weekend continues. If the current organisers are wanting to play it down instead of promoting it, then perhaps a newer, keener group of organisers is needed, someone like the original organisers. There seemed to have been lots more events & talks in previous years. Surely they know t hat Ned is a huge draw card for Beechworth (and other Kelly Country towns) and that Ned is the only reason that alot of people (us included) visit these wonderful towns in the first place. I just wish/hope the organisers appreciate Ned and the boys as much as we do. Seems like the 'organisers' (if you can call them that) prefer their country towns nice and quiet, without the hustle and bustle of us 'tourist'...

re. Ned Kelly Beechworth Weekend
From: Lola Rowe nee Lloyd [lolarowe@gmail.com] 01 Aug 11
All you "Kelly Buffs" hope to see you in Beechworth this weekend I suggest you go to listen to Noelene Allan give her most informative and wonderful talk on "ELLEN KELLY' ON SUNDAY, and of course "CUZ" Paul O'Keefe is speaking at lunch on Saturday re the HARTS, he is the G/Grandson of Ettie who was pivotal to our story of Ned. Yes, these 2 talks are the must-see events of the Beechworth Weekend. Let's get behind Noelene and Paul and generate a nice big crowd – and show the organisers what type of turnout they could've had over the entire weekend if they knew what they were doing!

re. Ned Kelly Beechworth Weekend
From: Alan Crichton [rcr87285@bigpond.net.au] 28 Jul 11
As a known supporter of Ironoutlaw and residing in what is known as Kelly Country, i have read but one article in the local newspapers up here regarding the Kelly weekend. The event organisers themselves have stated they are playing this years event down for whatever reasons. If the organisers are prepared to take this stand, then I find it difficult to understand why the responsibility should fall on Ironoutlaw's shoulders. If anyone has supported the weekend since its beginning it was Ironoutlaw with no thanks at all from its organisers. I might also ad Mark, that being the somewhat slack of late, roving reporter for Ironoutlaw, I have given two interviews on radio 2AY over the last three weeks talking about Ironoutlaw, "the premier Ned Kelly website", the programme for the Ned Kelly weekend, and the opening of the old Beechworth Gaol and its tours, and reaching some 30,000 listeners. So without even knowing it, Ironoutlaw has again given more publicity for the Weekend than the organising committee themselves. Many supporters of Ironoutlaw and locals will be attending the Weekend once again this year. Would you believe the Beechworth organisers have NEVER contacted Ironoutlaw about anything to do with the 2011 Ned Kelly Weekend. No official email or paperwork mentioning what's going on, no invitation for any Ironoutlaw reporters to cover any events, and no request to help promote or develop the event...

re. Jandamarra
From: Lola Rowe nee Lloyd [lolarowe@gmail.com] 18 Jul 11
Thanks Peter bringing this great story to the notice of others on Ironoutlaw the man Jandamarra was a great fighter for the rights of the blackman, looking for fair play for both sides, very much like Ned in his day..As Ned and the boys have their story in "Dreamtime"I think we should know their story also. It is an honour and privilege to hear and see the Aboriginal stories portrayed.

Ned Exhibition In Sydney
From: Lisa [captain1@ozemail.com.au] 18 Jul 11
The Ned Kelly: Fact and Fiction Exhibition is currently being shown at the Liverpool Library in Sydney. The exhibition is on the 1st floor of the Library at 170 George Street, Liverpool.

re. Mr Brown's Note Book
From: Mick Fitzsimons [mickfitzsimons@hotmail.com] 15 Jul 11
G’day Alan and Lisa, interesting topic! I’m with you Al, that Ned was born around July 1855. To me, it’s compelling that a young Ned wrote his age as eleven and a half on his father’s death certificate. As Ned was giving the information, he would know exactly how old he was. I also think he went alone, as times were tough then and kids had to grow up fast. It was common to sign with an X, for those who could not write they name, as there name would be written for them and they would make their mark (X) and ‘their mark’ would be written next to the X. As for Mr. Brown, I’ve seen two separate pages from different years listing Ned and there are many discrepancies with some of the other students listed and been check with birth records. So Mr. Brown’s accounts cannot be taken as gospel. I have a theory on narrowing down N ed’s birth date and possible his actual baptism, but the powers to be are not being co-operative. This is an entirely different approach to others who have searched for it and finding dead people is a specialty of mine. I’m exhausted after all this writing, must be time for a snort of sherry.

Jandamarra
From: Peter Eugene Nettleton [stinger@iinet.net.au] 14 Jul 11
I was at the opening night for this spectacular outdoor show, Jandamarra, on St Mary’s Catholic College oval in Broome. It was a theatrical experience that will resonate with me for a long time. While essentially a professional production, the inclusion of local authentic countrymen and women make it more an event of community theatre at its very best. Playwright Steve Hawke has done an excellent job in telling the story of the man - described by some as the ‘Black Ned Kelly’ - with very little dramatic enhancement and few historic inaccuracies. Directors Phil Thompson and Kelton Pell have worked well together to keep the action flowing throughout and the mixture of dialects convincing yet understandable. The design is sensational, from the set which successfully conveys the impression of the boab savannah with a backdrop of limestone cliffs, the lighting which takes us from sunlit plain to shaded waterhole to underground cavern and back, the animations, so important to the magic realism moments and of course the very subtle subtitles. Jandamarra (aka ‘Pidgeon’) was said to have possessed supernatural powers, some of which are still too secret to be made public. Certainly, his power as a genuine Australian legend will live on long after the trans-Kimberley run of this show has ended. For more information visit the ABC web site.

re. Mr Brown's Note Book
From: Lisa [captain1@ozemail.com.au] 06 Jul 11
That is another good question Alan,and one again which would be great to know the answer to. It is of course entirely possible that Mrs Kelly (or another relative) went with Ned, but just as possible that Ned went alone to help his Mum out so she wouldn't have to go through doing that. He seems to have already been a real little man, even at the age of 11, and by all accounts was a very intelligent boy & good student, so it is easy to imagine him doing it alone.

re. 2010 Beechworth Weekend
From: Airi [repetti@ozemail.com.au] 01 Jul 11
I see the program for the weekend is finally up. I would like to publicly register my disgust at the planned 'free' re-enactment of Aaron Sherritt's body being brought back to Beechworth. Yep, not their greatest idea. Just highlights the 'brain-drain' problem facing country towns across Australia. All the great marketing and promotion people live in the city so what's left behind are 'organisers' who are either on their way up, or on their way down. In this instance, it's the latter...

2010 Beechworth Weekend
From: Lisa [captain1@ozemail.com.au] 01 Jul 11
The full program list is finally up for this years Ned weekend. Looks good! :)  Hmm, besides Paul and Noelene's talks it look about as exciting as a jelly wrestling match between Billy-Bob Denheld and Alex McDermott...

re. Mr Brown's Note Book
From: Alan Crichton [rcr87285@bigpond.net.au] 30 Jun 11
The other question Lisa is, did Ned actually go to Campions alone or did someone go with him? Did Ellen supply the information for the certificate and Ned signed it simply because she could not sign her name and he could? The rounding off of the ages of his siblings on the certificate is almost on the money, which makes me believe he was assisted by possibly another member of the family.

re. Mr Brown's Note Book
From: Lisa [captain1@ozemail.com.au] 29 Jun 11
I believe Ned too Alan. Ned's birthdate has been put all over the place from his school records to prison records etc. But there is just something about picturing that dear little boy very bravely signing his Father's death certificate and so carefully entering his age to add the half year, that makes you think that a mid year 1855 birthdate for Ned is in the lead to be the right one. Hopefully Ned's baptism record will be found so we will definitely know.

Mr Brown's Note Book
From: Alan Crichton [rcr87285@bigpond.net.au] 29 Jun 11
Hi Brad, just having a browse through my copy of Mr Jones A Short Life when i came to the page that has a photo of Ned's old school inspector, G.W Brown's meticulous record of his visit to the Avenel Common School in 1864. On the page it has a date of 2/4/64 well highlighted. Edward Kelly's age on this record is down as 9 years of age. Now Mr Jones and several other Kelly scholars have used this as part evidence to bring about a renowned date of Ned's birth as December 1854. But what if Mr Brown rounded off their ages to the nearest year? If he hasn't, Mr Jones is correct until I then saw that Ned's sister Margaret's age was also noted on the same page as 7 years of age. Margaret Kelly was born on the 15th June 1857, which in April of 1864 would make her age 6 years and 10 months. Why didn't he mark her age as 6?? Looks like the inspector has rounded up Maggie's age to 7. Now unlike the other scholars, a Kelly family member has informed me that her mother always believed Ned to have been born around July of 1855. If Mr Brown has applied the same calculation to Ned's age , then i believe this date to be much closer to Ned's actual date of birth, because in April of 1864, Ned's age would have been 8 years and 9 months thus rounded up to 9. On the 28th December 1866, Ned Kelly signed his father's death certificate and stated that he was eleven and a half years of age. Why did he include that half year, and why do so many not believe him? I would be interested in other readers thoughts on this subject, (especially the ol sherry snorter).

Rest In Peace Dear Boys
From: Lisa [captain1@ozemail.com.au] 28 Jun 11
'Long may they reign, the Kelly's, Byrne and Hart.'

Ned Kelly Armour Prototype
From: Simon Whitaker [simonjwhitaker@yahoo.com] 19 Jun 11
I read this extraordinary claim in today's Age, and can't help but think someone is telling porkies:

In 1928, the club uncovered more evidence of Kelly's time at Williamstown when, while resurfacing the ground, it discovered a prototype of the armour that the bushranger eventually used for the events in Glenrowan. The club has a picture of Kelly's armour in its rooms. ''He is a legend of the Williamstown Football Club, and we're proud to have had Ned Kelly play for this football club,'' Monti said.

So apparently they want us to believe that ned kelly buried a prototype of his armour under a footy ground 7 years before the siege of Glenrowan?.... have you ever heard of such a claim before? And if true where is this prototype armour now? A very early (or late) April Fool's Day report?

re. Not Just Ned
From: Lisa [captain1@ozemail.com.au] 06 Jun 11
Hi Warren, Yes I agree about the date thing also. I would have thought having a caption saying something like - worn at the siege of Glenrowan, June 1880 - would have been more fitting too.From most accounts Joe didn't seem to be all that keen on the armour. Especially with the famous comment he was said to have told Ned during the siege - 'I told you this bloody armour would bring us to grief.' I've always really liked Ned's response of 'Don't you believe it.' But either way, those four suits of armour are truly brilliant things. I'm so glad they are all still here for us to admire today.

re. Not Just Ned
From: Warren Trick [warrentrick@bigpond.com] 06 Jun 11
I went to see the "Not Just Ned" exhibition too, Lisa. Like you, I thought it was very good and a great opportunity to see the four sets of armour, reassembled to probably as close as they will ever be, to being as they were 131 years ago this month. All the sets of armour had the boys name next to them and the date 1879? Do we know they were all made in 1879?. a bit nit picky I suppose, but as 27-28 June 1880 was the first time that anyone outside the gang's circle of friends knew of or saw the armour. I thought a better caption would have been, say, "Armour worn by Ned Nelly during the seige of Glenrowan 27-28 June 1880" 1879 caught my eye straight away. How pedantic. Let's not carp. I still got a real buzz out of seeing the four sets of armour together for the first time in my life. I walked around and around the exhibition, noting every component piece, and the inside of the breast and backplates. A memorable day. The guide told the group that Joe was terrified of being shot in the eyes and so had the middle section of the hemet's visor beaten up in the centre to" avoid a well aimed shot" I thought yeah, right. If I had been Joe I would have been more concerned about the big hole on the left hand side of the helmet, than the eye piece. I don't think Joe was all that keen on the armour though, was he?

The Last Outlaw
From: Lisa [captain1@ozemail.com.au] 24 May 11
The Last Outlaw has recently been re released on dvd (we saw some copies at Big W the other day) there are unfortunately though no extras or special features, just a nice new cover. But it is definitely very good to see this great mini series get released again. It can be bought from here.

Not Just Ned
From: Lisa [captain1@ozemail.com.au] 08 May 11
We recently went to the Not Just Ned exhibition and it was fantastic! The whole exhibition is set out beautifully and is extremely interesting. The boys armour is by far the best exhibit though. They are on display together at pretty much the center of the exhibition room. They have a huge display of one of the photos taken of The Glenrowan Inn (after the siege) with the boys 4 suits of armour coming out through the photo all in a row, it looks really great. Ned's armour is displayed as standing a little in front of Joe, Dan & Steve's (similar to how they were at the start of the siege lined up together), and it is very easy to picture them inside their suits. When you walk around the back of the display, each suit is fully open to look at from the back too. It is really wonderful. There are also photos of each of the boys on display, and one of Mrs Kelly too, plus McIntyre's scrapbook, the Court sessions book from 1880 and a little video playing from the 1906 film. It is all set out very well and looks amazing. It's always incredible to be so close to them and see the armour in person. Looking at them all, I still can't get over how they made them and especially how they wore them. They all look like they would weigh a tonne. I think it just goes to show again how brilliant Ned, Joe, Dan & Steve are. :)

Jack is Back
From: Alan Crichton [rcr87285@bigpond.net.au] 24 Apr 11
To all the Ironoutlaw readers, I have great pleasure in announcing that my dear and lost chum, Captain Jack Hoyle has finally returned from the Carolinas. Welcome home dear Jack, all is forgiven. Reading is believing so I'll wait until the good captain sends in his next update!

The song " The Kelly Gang"
From: Peter Haynes [pjh145@msn.com] 18 Apr 11
Dear Sir/Madam, I have enjoyed your Ironoutlaw site now for a long time, the most detailed and informative site on the Kelly era that there is. I notice you are listing a number of songs dealing with Ned and the Kelly gang. A song released by Australia's own legendary country music performer the late Buddy Williams called "The Kelly Gang", is in my opinion the best ever written and performed song dealing with Ned Kelly that there has been to date. The song originally released on a 78rpm on the Regal Zonophone label, was recorded on the 2nd of October 1953. The song written and performed by Buddy, gives him a fair and just treatment and tells the story as it should be told. Many songs have been written about Ned Kelly over the years, but this will always be my favourite. Just like how we enjoyed The Last Outlaw as giving Ned and his Family fair and just treatment, i feel Buddy did the same in song for Ned and his family and friends. Below is a You Tube link where someone has put the song up with just a photo of Buddy around the time the song was recorded. I only hope you can include this great song on you great site. All the best, Peter Haynes. Yes, I prefer 'Madam' but only after a few beers...

Piece of Beechworth Gaol on eBay
From: Anthony Smit [aezlove@primusonline.com.au] 09 Apr 11
On Ebay there's a bloke selling a piece of granite from the wall of Beechworth Gaol for $450 bucks if anyone is interested. That's one way to get a heafty fine from the Government...

Bakery and Comic
From: Stephen Banham [stephen.f.banham@gmail.com] 29 Mar 11
Hey buddy. Great site!! I'm from Adelaide and was wondering if you had heard of Ned Kelly Pies? Couldn't see it on your links page. I have been there once. Good pies from memory. Two cops came in when I was ordering. I found it ironic to see cops buying baked goods in a Ned Kelly themed shop :) PS Any idea where I can get a copy of that comic by Monty Wedd? Looks great! There was a rumour Monty's work was going to be republished but it's never happened. As for the pie shop claiming they have the original Ned Kelly Pie just don't mention it to Tom O'Toole...

Ireland and the GFC
From: Michele Eve [michele.eve@googlemail.com] 24 Mar 11
My sad news from the Museum of Ireland of a couple of weeks ago - that the Not Just Ned exhibition isn't coming to Dublin afterall - is confirmed in the press. The price of Insurance being beyond the Irish economy I suspect. Ah well ... next time.

Ned Kelly Tattoo
From: Daniel Robinson [danieljrobinson@bigpond.com] 12 Mar 11
Hello was just woundering if you know where i can get ned Kelly tattoo designs from. Cheers any help i would be greatfull

re. My book: The Hunt for Ned Kelly
From: Sophie Masson [sophievmasson@gmail.com] 10 Mar 11
Thanks, Airi, that's great news, glad you all loved the book! I so much enjoyed writing it, and I am loving writing this new one too, should be off to my publisher in a couple of weeks (it'll be out next year.) Have already bent her ear about a third Ned Kelly novel, she seems most amenable to it! And I'll make sure too a copy goes asap to Iron Outlaw forthwith! Reading it now and so far, so good (like my other favourite 'Whistle Man'). I've just one question: Why would you go through Mansfield to get to Benalla?

The Last Outlaw Cast
From: Lisa [captain1@ozemail.com.au] 07 Mar 11
A few interesting photos of some of the cast of The Last Outlaw, then and now.

re. My book: The Hunt for Ned Kelly
From: Airi [repetti@ozemail.com.au] 03 Mar 11
Hi Sophie, just wanted to say that I have your book and I also gave a copy of it to four of my friends on the occasion of our special Kelly Country tour in August last year. We all enjoyed your story very much. I love how you constructed it around the existing photograph, very cleverly done! Like Brian Ridden's excellent 'Whistle Man', your story may be aimed at the younger demographic but it is an enjoyable read for adults as well. Looking forward to your new book! Loved the 'Whistle Man'...

My book: The Hunt for Ned Kelly
From: Sophie Masson [sophievmasson@gmail.com] 03 Mar 11
Hi Just wondering if you'd caught up with my own small contribution to the Ned Kelly corpus - my novel in diary form, The Hunt for Ned Kelly (published by Scholastic Press in 2010). It's aimed at kids. It's had a very good response from readers and been reprinted a few times now! Set in the last year of Ned's life, it's told through the eyes of 11 year old Jamie Ross who with his older sister Ellen travels north from Melbourne to Beechworth after the death of their father - and who falls right into the drama of the hunt for Ned Kelly and his friends. It's fiction but have also tried to convey the facts of this important period in Ned's life. I'm at present writing another novel for Scholastic about Ned --this time when he's 15 and apprenticed to Harry power--once more it's fiction and told through the eyes of another boy. I am fascinated and moved by the story of Ned and I hope I've done justice to it. I'm of French origin and came to Australia as a 5 year old kid without any English - but when I was about 8 or 9 my mother bought for me Frank Clune's picture book about Ned Kelly, saying we had to know about Australias greatest folk hero! I was hooked by the story and it stayed in my mind for years till I wrote my own take on the life and legend of the Iron Outlaw ... best wishes, and congrats on a great and lively site, Sophie Masson. Sophie, maybe you could ask the PR at Scholastic Press to stop being a tight-ass and send me a copy to review on the site...

re. Descendants Book
From: Mick Fitzsimons [mickfitzsimons@hotmail.com] 03 Mar 11
Very interesting stuff Paul and what a find you had. Just goes to show that new things keep turning up every now and again. Maybe the Declaration of Independence is still out there somewhere.

re. Descendants Book
From: Ellen Hollow [tonelly@bigpond.com] 01 Mar 11
There are very many descendants who value their privacy, hence the idea of a descendants book is more than likely a non starter.

re. Descendants Book
From: Paul O'Keefe [paul@neducate.com.au] 28 Feb 11
Hi Sherallee, Thanks for the idea for one of us to write a book, Firstly I'm not a Kelly Descendant, but a Hart Descendant. But I think I could speak for all the "Kelly Gang Descendants" Yes, Yes, Yes... We are sick to death of all the myths and rumours that have been spread around for over 130 years. I think I've heard them all, from Steve and Dan hiding in the cellar to escape the flames of the burning inn, Dan going to the gallows instead of Ned, Ned taking off to America, Dan singeing his initials on his own arse and eventually dying in Ipswich QLD, Steve dying in WA of syphilis , Dan and Steve fighting as British soldiers in the Boar War, Steve and Dan sailed to NZ, lets not forget all those rumours that the Kelly Gang were gay and cross dressers. Believe it or not there's even a nutter academic that told me he believes Ned was the second coming of Christ! Yes, It would be great to write a book from the families perspective. I must also agree with Lola though, that whatever we did write would be dismissed or heavily criticised just as oral history by many. It has been the case for years when we have challenged historians/academics theories contained in numerous books/papers and then when the internet age came, articles posted on various websites. I have added a page on my website of a recent find that will challenge/support many views, hopefully this will go some way towards reestablishing the credibility of our proud oral history. Cheers Paul O'Keefe
P.S Mark and Sherallee, If I ever write a book I will send you both one for free!

Ned on the Radio
From: Lisa [captain1@ozemail.com.au] 26 Feb 11
A radio show about Ned. I wonder what this will be like? Comedy... Can't wait...

Kelly Gang site upgraded
From: Lisa [captain1@ozemail.com.au] 24 Feb 11
I recently saw this article regarding the upgrade at Stringybark Creek. I know there has always been alot of debate over whether it is infact the right site or not (I think only Ned & the boys are the ones who would truly ever know exactly where everything happened), but there has certainly been alot of hard work done there to put in the paths & signage etc. Seeing it made me think of Glenrowan. It would be great for something like that (on a smaller scale ofcourse) to be done at the Siege Site. Before the dig (which I think was pretty disrespectful) was done there, at least there was the lovely old peppercorn tree marking the site, along with the sign, and it seemed kind of calm & nice to just have a lovely old bush tree there (with the little ponies that were often there grazing) to mark the place of such sad & important events. But since the dig it's just so bare & awful looking. Nothing was put back to how it was,except for the sign, though it laid on the ground for ages. It's very sad really. I understand that the site is privately owned & everything, but it would be really great to have an established tree planted back there again, perhaps with a plaque on it. Another peppercorn tree or maybe a flowering gum tree? I'm sure if a donation tin or something similar were set up at one of the shops like Kate's Cottage that many people would donate to have something like that done at the site. It is horrible for it to be left as it currently is, just a bare paddock. Such a historic site deserves much better. I heard a murmur that some of the local Glenrowan nutbags suggested a drive-through bottle shop built like the Jones Inn be erected on the site...

re. Ned Myths and Rumours
From: Sherallee Schubert [qantas737@hotmail.com] 21 Feb 11
I would have to agree with the Kelly decendants who are probably sick of the myths and rumours that have been discussed and published over the years. I am not a decendant (I wish I was!) but I think people should shut up and if they can not learn something about the Kelly gang and their families that was true, well then stop making up stories. The kellys are a very important part of our Australian history and people will never lose interest in the story of the gang and appreciate what Ned was trying to achieve in his short life time. I just hope that the decendants relise that Ned Kelly is a much loved Australian and anything to do with Ned is always valued no matter how small it seems, including stories true or false. May I suggest that one of the decendants should write a book on what really happened. That would be the only way that the public gets the truth. But I do understand that I would not like a book published about my family although I do not have a decendant as famous and loved as Ned. I always think of how Ned wanted everyone to know his side of the story. We know that because of the Camron letter and the Jerilderie letter. So I imagine that Ned can not get the smile off his face sitting up there knowing that so many people are on his side. Ellen Hollows can I please ask you what decendant you are from the Kelly family? Thats all I ask of you. Thankyou. I have a feeling Ellen has answered a question like this before...

Contemporary cartoon of Kelly gang and police
From: Ann McGrath [ann.mcgrath@anu.edu.au] 19 Feb 11
Hi - Your website is wonderful! Now I have a question for something I'm writing. I recall seeing a cartoon depicting the police sleeping and the Kelly gang taunting them between some trees nearby. There was an Aboriginal woman on the ground who was the only one awake and aware the gang were there. I presume it was published in a newspaper at the time of the police chase. However I can't work out how to find it quickly. (I have heard the police in hammocks story etc - was this possibly near Stringybark Creek?) Any clues welcome! I would like to get a copy of it. I once had it, but don't ask me where it's gone. I thought it was a bit odd having the Aboriginal woman there, too. I am aware of the trackers from Qld but they were all men. Thanks so much. That's news to me but I'm sure someone out there would have seen it, if it exists!

Another Ned Exhibition
From: Michele Eve [michele.eve@blueyonder.co.uk] 17 Feb 11
I was really pleased to hear as Lisa said that the armour is all to be together again in Canberra - feels like a step in the right direction to it being a permanent thing. I did hear a rumour that some of the stuff might be travelling back to Dublin afterwards- I see the exhibition is also sponsored by the Irish embassy. I'd be interested to hear if anyone knows anything more about that, I am sure Ryan Air will be more than happy to relieve me of some English pounds.

Fight Site
From: Lisa [captain1@ozemail.com.au] 06 Feb 11
I just wondered if anyone knew why the 'Fight Site sign' was taken down years ago? We were there when Ian Jones gave a talk at the site and the sign was put up on the banks of Spring Creek marking the place near where Ned and Wild Wright had their boxing match. But on our next visit a while later the sign was gone and has never been put back up since. Why? Why indeed...

Another Ned Exhibition
From: Lisa [captain1@ozemail.com.au] 30 Jan 01
There is an exhibition (opening on St Patricks Day) at the National Library in Canberra about the Irish in Australia, it's called Not Just Ned. It sounds really good, especially as all 4 of the boys armour will be together again, that's really great so soon after Beechworth too. Unfortunately though Brad, I read on the museums page the following - 'Photography and filming of objects on loan and temporary exhibitions is not allowed.' Argh Why? Maybe they don't want anyone to know they got ripped off $10,000 for buying a dodgy death mask from a bloke who should have known better (more on that story soon...)

The Last Outlaw
From: Jacquelyn [schechte@usc.edu] 28 Jan 11
Hi ... I want to buy The Last Outlaw with John Jarratt. I don’t see a box to click on to purchase it. Can you help me? Well, we don't actually sell that DVD which is why you can't find it in our Shop

Ned Kelly's Rifle
From: John [mercury35@exemail.com.au] 25 Jan 11
I have a friend who has a rifle reportedly owned by Ned Kelly, it has the initials E.K scratched into it, I have extensive pictures of this and it has also been in a museum collection in South Australia, I was wondering if you would be interested in looking at pictures and all the info we have on this item , to see what you think. Your friend's name isn't Ian is it?

The Glenrowen Seige Train
From: Keith Marshall [neo6_1only@hotmail.com] 08 Jan 11
hello i am wonting to know of the type of steam train that would of been used at the glenrowen 1880 kelly gang show down that kelly wonted to derail if known or the type of steam train that would of been used at the time if you had any photos of the train or had any links to photos of the train and cariges used for police transport as i am doing some reasurch for a short film of the kelly gangs last stand for i geuse ortherniticity. any help would be greatly thankfull Lucky you're not working on a movie about spelling and grammar...