This document recounts the story of Gipsy Smith (real name William Turner), a notorious bushranger in 19th-century Australia, focusing on his involvement in violent crimes and his eventual capture. Gipsy Smith was involved in a shootout in central Victoria in 1856 that resulted in the death of Sergeant John McNally and the wounding of Constable John Moore. Smith and his accomplice escaped after the incident, which caused public outrage due to McNally's popularity. Smith was part of a group of bushrangers who terrorized travelers, merchants, and goldfields communities with armed robberies and audacious hold-ups. Notable incidents included tying up and robbing multiple victims, and high-speed horse chases with police. Bushrangers like Smith were sometimes romanticized as rebellious figures, but the document emphasizes the real violence and fear they caused. Smith, originally William Turner, was a former convict from Tasmania who became a bushranger after escaping to Victoria during the gold rush. He was known for his bravado, often displaying weapons openly among gold diggers. Smith was eventually recognized and arrested in Maryborough after the murder, narrowly avoiding a murder conviction due to a technicality with his arrest warrant. He was sentenced to 15 years of hard labor for manslaughter. After serving his sentence, Smith was trusted with responsible work, such as driving cattle and managing a farm, suggesting a degree of rehabilitation. The story is part of a historical series highlighting notable events in the region’s past.Bendigo Advertiser story Sat Oct 23 2021 entitled "Cop-killer caught out" This item contains the following documents 3486.51a Bendigo Advertiser Page 1 Title Page - "Highway Thuggery" 3486.51b Bendigo Advertiser Page 3 article "Cop-killer caught out" the story of Gypsy Smith Bushrangerbendigo, gipsy smith bushranger

The book describes the life and times of bushranger Gypsey (aka Gipsy) Smith.Soft cover, lemon, blue titles, with sepia illustration of bearded bushranger holding rifle and pistol. Author: Lawrie Moore.ISBN 3780992581800