Australia In Colour (Series 1) Season 2 Episode 3 Crime

Australia In Colour season 2 episode 3 delves into the darker side of Australian history with a focus on crime. Through archival footage presented in stunning color, viewers are taken on a journey through Australia's criminal past from the early 1900s to the mid-20th century.

The episode begins by exploring the notorious razor gangs of Sydney's inner-city suburbs during the 1920s. These gangs were known for their brutal violence and turf wars which often spilled out onto the streets and caused terror among the local community. Through eyewitness accounts and police reports, viewers gain insight into the underworld culture of the time and the challenges law enforcement faced in dealing with these criminal organizations.

Moving on to the 1930s, the episode examines the most famous bank robbery in Australian history. In 1935, the New South Wales Police Headquarters was the target of a daring heist which resulted in the theft of over 14,000 pounds in cash and bonds. Despite a massive manhunt, the perpetrators were never caught. Through interviews with surviving family members of the robbers and contemporary newsreel footage, viewers get a feel for the audacity of the crime and the public fascination it generated.

Next, the episode focuses on the infamous 'Pyjama Girl' case of the 1940s. The body of a young woman was discovered in Albury, New South Wales, in 1944. She had been brutally beaten and her body set on fire, leading to her nickname 'Pyjama Girl'. The case became a media sensation, with extensive coverage in newspapers and on radio. Despite years of police work and a public appeal for information, the identity of the victim was not confirmed until 1949. Through forensic analysis and eyewitness testimony, the program reconstructs the investigation and trial which followed.

The episode also explores the rise of organized crime in post-World War II Australia. Through interviews with experts and archival footage, viewers learn about the activities of prominent crime figures such as Lennie McPherson and Abe Saffron. The program examines the links between organized crime and political corruption, and the efforts of law enforcement to stamp out this criminal activity.

Finally, the episode looks at the challenges of policing the drug trade in the 1960s and 70s. The program examines the growth of the heroin trade in Sydney and the impact it had on communities. Through interviews with police officers and former addicts, viewers gain insight into the challenges of breaking the cycle of addiction and the efforts of law enforcement to tackle drug crime.

Overall, Australia In Colour season 2 episode 3 provides a fascinating and revealing look into Australia's criminal history. Through vividly presented archival footage and insightful interviews, viewers gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by law enforcement and the impact of crime on Australian society.