Australian Families of Crime (2009)

Australian Families of Crime is an Australian documentary television series that dives into the dark and gripping world of some of Australia’s most notorious criminal families. Originally aired on Foxtel, the show was later shown on the free-to-air Nine Network. Hosted by actor Vince Colosimo, the series sheds light on the lives and crimes of these powerful and feared families, who left a trail of violence and corruption in their wake.

Through interviews with family members, associates, victims, and police investigators, the show uncovers the intricate webs of criminal activity woven by these families. Here are some of the compelling episodes featured in the series:

1. Carl Williams: Baby Faced Killer: The story of Carl Williams, a notorious figure in Melbourne’s underworld, who was involved in drug trafficking, murder, and organized crime.
2. Ivan Milat: Backpacker Bloodshed: A chilling account of serial killer Ivan Milat, who brutally murdered seven young backpackers in the Belanglo State Forest. Despite being Australia’s worst serial killer, some of his family members continue to support his monstrous actions.
3. Abe Saffron: King of the Cross: The life and crimes of Abe Saffron, a powerful figure in Sydney’s criminal scene, known for his influence over the city’s nightlife and underworld.
4. Mother of Evil: Pettingill: The Pettingill family, infamous for their involvement in drug trafficking, violence, and organized crime. Their matriarch, Kath Pettingill, was a central figure in their criminal activities.
5. Dockers & Death: Les and Brian Kane: The Kane brothers, who were part of a violent gang in Sydney, engaged in extortion, drug trafficking, and murder.
6. Mr. Bigs: Lenny McPherson and George Freeman: The lives of Lenny McPherson and George Freeman, two influential crime bosses in Sydney during the 1970s and 1980s.
7. The Killer Couple: David and Catherine Birnie: A disturbing exploration of the crimes committed by David and Catherine Birnie, a couple responsible for the abduction, rape, and murder of several young women in Perth.
8. Blood Brothers: The Anita Cobby Killers: The shocking case of the brutal rape and murder of Anita Cobby, a young nurse, by a group of men, including two brothers.

These gripping narratives reveal the dark underbelly of Australian crime history, showcasing the power dynamics, fear, and destruction caused by these families. Australian Families of Crime provides a chilling insight into the lives of those who operated outside the law, leaving a lasting impact on the nation’s criminal landscape.