Coffee with Carl Williams, wine bars with reinforced doors, sacred sites where gangsters roam free: The dark history of Melbourne’s hotspots
Sydney Morning Herald
by John Silvester, Pablo BarnesFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Melbourne, known for its vibrant culture and iconic landmarks, hides a dark and complex criminal history intertwined with its most famous hotspots. From pubs to sacred sites like Queen Victoria Market, crime has historically shaped the city’s identity in ways many visitors and even locals are unaware of. Award-winning journalist John Silvester, host of *The Age’s Naked City podcast*, reveals how organized crime, gang conflicts, and police corruption have been deeply embedded in Melbourne’s fabric for decades. The article highlights key events, such as the violent power struggles among mafia clans in the 1960s, the infamous Market Murders, and the involvement of an American mafia expert who was ignored by authorities despite his warnings.
In the 1960s, a bloody mafia power struggle erupted at Queen Victoria Market, leaving several mobsters dead. This clash for control was so intense that it prompted the Victorian government to bring in American mafia expert John T. Cusack, whose methods were as unconventional as they were effective. However, his detailed report on the Calabrian organized crime group operating in Melbourne went unheeded. Decades later, his warnings proved prescient with the infamous Great Bookie Robbery of 1976, which remains one of Australia’s most meticulously planned heists. The robbery netted $1.3 million and was executed with precision, suggesting inside help—a pattern that continued to plague law enforcement as they grappled with organized crime.
The article also delves into the tragic 1986 bombing that claimed the life of Constable Angela Taylor, the first Australian policewoman killed in the line of duty. The attack, carried out by career criminals with a deep-seated hatred for law enforcement, marked Australia’s first encounter with domestic terrorism. These events underscore how crime in Melbourne has not only shaped its history but also left an indelible mark on its culture and institutions.
For readers interested in global crime trends and the intersection of law enforcement and organized crime, Melbourne’s story offers a unique lens into how historical criminal activities have influenced modern-day challenges. The city’s dark past serves as a reminder of the enduring struggle between law enforcement and organized crime, a theme that continues to resonate worldwide.
Verticals
worldaustralia
Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/20/2026