Plus: The story behind an infamous meme
| | | | The double life of a 'secret service housewife' |
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Anne Neill might have been the last person you'd expect to be a spy.
In the 1950s, she played the part of the perfect housewife: inconspicuous and softly spoken, with a penchant for baked goods and community gatherings.
But the middle-aged Adelaide widow was in fact one of ASIO's most effective penetrative agents, known as a "sparrow".
Historian Phillip Deery told The History Listen how Neill found her calling as a spy and surprised her handlers with her skill and razor focus.
"It's a remarkable story in that her self-sacrifice and dedication almost knew no bounds," Professor Deery said.
Discover Neill's fascinating story — and hear from those duped by her for years — in our online article or listen back to the full radio episode.
Then, explore another quirky historical deep dive with a story from Earshot about a man at the heart of an infamous viral video.
You might not know Jack Karlson's name, but you'd probably recognise his voice — particularly his mid-arrest rant about enjoying a "succulent Chinese meal".
It turns out his flair for the dramatic would follow him through his life and friendships, from prison to the theatre stage.
Finally, tune in to a brand new season of Days Like These, for more amazing true stories.
Until next time,
Anna Levy, RN deputy digital editor
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| Anne Neill was a regular 1950s housewife. She was also an undercover spy |
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| Anne Neill cut an unimposing figure. She was neatly dressed, white-haired, softly spoken. Some regarded her as "a fluttery old lady" — but they were wrong. |
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| What the religious freedom bill means to trans students and teachers |
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| For those in the transgender community, fighting for the same protection under the law as their cisgendered counterparts is yet another blow in an ongoing battle for acceptance. |
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The man behind the 'Succulent Chinese Meal' meme has a complicated past |
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| Jack Karlson spent most of his early life in homes and prisons — until a friendship with a cellmate changed the course of his life. |
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| | | News, Events & Opportunities |
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Want to know what's really going on in Parliament House?
Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas give you the political analysis that matters and explain what it means for you.
This season kicks off with analysis of explosive recent events, including the contentious Religious Discrimination Bill, Grace Tame and Brittany Higgins calling for change, and a series of leaked texts about the PM. | | LISTEN |
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The best story you'll hear this week.
In each episode of ABC podcast, Days Like These, one person tells the tale of how they lived through something wild.
It's sometimes funny, sometimes scary, sometimes both.
Listen to the latest season and hear new episodes on the ABC listen app. | | LISTEN |
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