“Old Ned” aftershave, one of the countless Kelly related merchandise which has become available over the years.
Photo Matt Deller

Ned’s image has become one with Australia. The opening ceremony at the Olympic games is a case in point. While many people see this as blatant consumerism we like to take a different approach. Surely Ned would get a big kick out of knowing his face is as recognisable now as it’s ever been. In stark contrast, the bronzed head of Sir Redmond Barry, the judge that sentenced him to death, has metal spikes inserted to stop the pigeons from shitting on his skull. His statue stands ignominiously outside the State Library of Victoria. Such is life!