True Blue Conversations Podcast
Inspired by the people and events that have shaped Australian history and character, with his authentically Australian down to earth approach, Adam Blum explores and shares their stories. Learn how in the past and more recently, service, sacrifice and grit have and continue to play a central role in Australia's True Blue History.
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True Blue Conversations - AUSTRALIAN SPECIAL FORCES 2ND COMMANDO REGIMENT VETERAN Craig Ball
01/13/2025
True Blue Conversations - AUSTRALIAN SPECIAL FORCES 2ND COMMANDO REGIMENT VETERAN Craig Ball
Welcome back to season 6 of True Blue Conversations podcast: On this week’s podcast, I spoke with former Australian Special Forces 2nd Commando Regiment veteran Craig Ball. Craig passed Commando selection in 2000 as a reservist and went full-time in 2006. He deployed to Afghanistan as a signaller in the 2nd Commando Regiment in 2010 and 2012. Craig spoke about how veterans struggle with transition after service, returning from a warzone, and migrating back into civilian life. Today, Craig is passionate about helping veterans and working in the mental health space he is a speaker and competed in the Invictus games. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Craig Ball Editor: Kyle Watkins
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True Blue Conversations - NSW Rural Fire Service Area Commander Southwestern Chief Superintendent Kelwyn White
12/03/2024
True Blue Conversations - NSW Rural Fire Service Area Commander Southwestern Chief Superintendent Kelwyn White
On this weeks podcast, I speak with NSW Rural Fire Service Area Commander Southwestern Chief Superintendent Kelwyn White. Kelwyn commenced her service with the NSW Rural Fire Service in 2002 and, since then has worked across NSW in District, State, and Area-based roles. Kelwyn has been both a salaried officer and a volunteer during her service. Kelwyn's commitment, especially in Community Risk & Community Engagement, is held in the highest regard by her peers and the community. Kelwyn continues to be a proud advocate for engaged communities, playing a significant leadership and mentoring role in this field to NSW RFS membership and the community. Kelwyn is passionate about sharing her knowledge to help others achieve their desired outcomes, as a keen advocate for training, she gives her time to develop others. When Kelwyn commenced with the RFS, she started in administration and has worked her way through the ranks to be one of the 7 Area Commanders and, currently the only female in this role. During this time, Kelwyn has been fortunate to see the evolution in the way women are seen and operate within the RFS and is proud to have been a part of that. Yet knowing that, there is more to come and is proud to be in a position to support, encourage and mentor women to develop into leadership roles, or simply be the best version of themselves they can be within emergency service or their own lives. As the Area Commander for the Southwestern Area, Kelwyn is responsible for the coordinated fire-fighting arrangements across the Area, including mitigation of bushfire risks to the community through strategic organisational programs to reduce risk to the community from bushfire and other emergencies and ensuring communities are engaged, prepared and warned appropriately before and during an emergency. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Kelwyn White Editor: Kyle Watkins Investigative Consultant: Adam Holloway
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True Blue Conversations - Margaret Cunneen SC - “The Boxing Butterfly A Life Of Conviction”
11/12/2024
True Blue Conversations - Margaret Cunneen SC - “The Boxing Butterfly A Life Of Conviction”
On this weeks podcast, I spoke with Australian barrister & Public Prosecutor now defence lawyer Margaret Cunneen SC. For over four decades, Margaret Cunneen helped put away some of Australia's worst, as a crown prosecutor and, as her profile grew, so did the media attention, Margaret recalls the headline cases that helped establish her reputation, the controversies she became embroiled in. In 2022 Margaret published her autobiography “ The Boxing Butterfly” A Life Of Conviction is a career chronicle of Margaret Cunneen SC—the boxing butterfly who turned the tables on ICAC, amidst prosecuting murderers, pedophiles and rapists—as she launches into her new chapter as a defence barrister. In her rearview mirror, Cunneen sees her trial successes—her convictions—interspersed with the flak from the ground fire of some colleagues who resented her success and were determined to stop her climb to greater heights. She regrets nothing and is satisfied with what she does. As Madam Crown, she empathised with the victims and their families. Now, as defence counsel, she empathises with the accused she defends. And what stories she tells! Some are gruesome and confronting, such as prosecuting the irreverent Skafs for gang rape, Robert ‘Dolly’ Dunn for pedophilia, the Butcher of Bega for unspeakable medical malpractice and the Charbaji Brothers for an ice- fuelled torture session that ended in murder. Others—especially relating to her defence clients, are filled with humanity. Margaret is a wife Mother and Grandmother loves her NRL and is a passionate Manly fan, she is deeply faithful we spoke about the many high-profile cases she has been involved with the toll of being in the public sector, and how Margaret dealt with some of the terrible cases she has worked on over the 45 years. This was a ripping chat. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Margaret Cunneen SC Editor: Kyle Watkins Investigative Consultant: Adam Holloway
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True Blue Conversations - Col. Kim "Killer Chick" Campbell Retired A - 10 Warthog Pilot & Best Selling Author
10/28/2024
True Blue Conversations - Col. Kim "Killer Chick" Campbell Retired A - 10 Warthog Pilot & Best Selling Author
On this week’s episode I spoke with Colonel Kim “KC” Campbell DFC “Retd” served in the Air Force for 24 years as a fighter pilot and senior military leader. Kim is a keynote speaker sharing her story about a life changing combat experience while weaving in ideas and lessons about leadership, teamwork, perseverance, and decision making in stressful environments. Kim has flown 1,800 hours in the A-10 Warthog, including more than 100 combat missions protecting troops on the ground in both Iraq and Afghanistan. She is a distinguished graduate of the Air Force Academy and has a Master of Arts in International Security Studies and a Master of Business Administration from the University of London. She has served as a Squadron Commander, Operations Group Commander, Air Force Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council, and Military Assistant to the Under Secretary of Defence for Policy in the Office of the Secretary of Defence. Most recently, Kim served as the Director for the Centre for Character and Leadership Development at the United States Air Force Academy. In 2003, Colonel Campbell was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for Heroism after successfully recovering her battle-damaged airplane after an intense close air support mission in Baghdad. In 2023 Kim published her bestselling book FLYING IN THE FACE OF FEAR A fighter Pilot’s Lessons on Leading with Courage. Kim is a mum a wife and now travels around America speaking and helping veterans transiting out of the military. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Kim “KC” Campbell Editor: Kyle Watkins Investigative Consultant: Adam Holloway
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True Blue Conversations - Western Australian Police Officer Detective Kristi McVee
10/14/2024
True Blue Conversations - Western Australian Police Officer Detective Kristi McVee
On this week’s episode I spoke with Western Australian Police Officer Kristi McVee, a former detective and specialist child interviewer, she spent years investigating child sexual abuse and prosecuting pedophiles. In this chat, she gets real about the scope of the problem and the challenges you face as a cop chasing down pedophiles. She spent 10 years in the police force before retiring from the force. When she retired, she believed there was a better way to help. By taking a proactive approach, rather than a reactive approach, she knew she could help prevent child abuse and break the cycle of trauma that victims are so often subjected to. She founded CAPE-AU (Child Abuse Prevention and Education) to provide an educational service for parents, caregivers, and guardians around child sexual abuse protection and prevention. She recently published her first book Operation KidSafe: A Detective’s guide to Child Abuse Prevention and hosts The CAPE Podcast. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Krisit McVee Editor: Kyle Watkins Investigative Consultant: Adam Holloway
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True Blue Conversations - Veteran Rod Henderson - Australian 3RAR Paratrooper, Army Aviation Loadmaster & Author
10/02/2024
True Blue Conversations - Veteran Rod Henderson - Australian 3RAR Paratrooper, Army Aviation Loadmaster & Author
On this week’s Episode 101: I spoke with Rod Henderson former 3RAR Paratrooper & Army Aviation Loadmaster. Rod spent a total of 22 years within the Australian Defence Force both serving as a paratrooper with the 3rd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, he was part of Operation Interfet, in 1999 the Australian-led International Force East Timor. Rod then transferred to Army Aviation, working with Black Hawks and Chinooks, including as a door gunner. Rod has deployed on warlike and humanitarian operations to Timor, Pakistan, New Guinea, and Afghanistan. He’s now a volunteer guide at the Australian War Memorial. Recently Rod published his autobiography called “Stop Screaming I’m Scared Too” An Australian Soldier’s Story, out now!! Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Rod Henderson Editor: Kyle Watkins Investigative Consultant: Adam Holloway
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True Blue Conversations - AUSTRALIAN SPECIAL FORCES 2ND COMMANDO REGIMENT VETERAN CRAIG HAMBURGER PART 3
09/17/2024
True Blue Conversations - AUSTRALIAN SPECIAL FORCES 2ND COMMANDO REGIMENT VETERAN CRAIG HAMBURGER PART 3
On this week’s podcast Episode 100: Part 3 the Final part of a 20 years of service in the Special Forces. I spoke with former Australian Special Forces 2nd Commando Regiment operator Craig Hamburger who enlisted into the Australian Defence Force in 1999; and served his country proudly for 20+ years. During his posting to 4 Royal Australian Regiment as a Commando, Craig deployed on multiple operations, including Timor Leste, Iraq, and Afghanistan. During one of his deployments in Afghanistan, he was awarded a Commendation for Gallantry. The citation reads "Corporal Hamburger’s gallantry in the face of heavy, accurate and sustained enemy fire ultimately ensured the safety of the other members of his team, and allowed them to regain the initiative, forcing the enemy to withdraw. His actions were of the highest order and in keeping with the finest traditions of the Australian special operations forces, the Australian Army and the Australian Defence Force.” We spoke of the highs and lows of his service, losing mentors and mates, and the challenges many veterans and first responders face when they transition from service…. Part 3 of the 3-Part Series tells Craig’s raw, insightful, and gallant story. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Craig Hamburger Editor: Kyle Watkins Investigative Consultant: Adam Holloway
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True Blue Conversations - AUSTRALIAN SPECIAL FORCES 2ND COMMANDO REGIMENT VETERAN CRAIG HAMBURGER PART 2
09/04/2024
True Blue Conversations - AUSTRALIAN SPECIAL FORCES 2ND COMMANDO REGIMENT VETERAN CRAIG HAMBURGER PART 2
On this week’s podcast Episode 100 part 2: I spoke with former Australian Special Forces 2nd Commando Regiment operator Craig Hamburger who enlisted into the Australian Defence Force in 1999; and served his country proudly for 20+ years. During his posting to 4 Royal Australian Regiment as a Commando, Craig deployed on multiple operations, including Timor Leste, Iraq, and Afghanistan. During one of his deployments in Afghanistan, he was awarded a Commendation for Gallantry. The citation reads "Corporal Hamburger’s gallantry in the face of heavy, accurate and sustained enemy fire ultimately ensured the safety of the other members of his team, and allowed them to regain the initiative, forcing the enemy to withdraw. His actions were of the highest order and in keeping with the finest traditions of the Australian special operations forces, the Australian Army and the Australian Defence Force.” We spoke of the highs and lows of his service, losing mentors and mates, and the challenges many veterans and first responders face when they transition from service…. This is Part 1 of a 3-Part Series telling Craig’s raw, insightful and gallant story. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Craig Hamburger Editor: Kyle Watkins Investigative Consultant: Adam Holloway
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True Blue Conversations - AUSTRALIAN SPECIAL FORCES 2ND COMMANDO REGIMENT VETERAN CRAIG HAMBURGER PART 1
08/26/2024
True Blue Conversations - AUSTRALIAN SPECIAL FORCES 2ND COMMANDO REGIMENT VETERAN CRAIG HAMBURGER PART 1
On this week’s podcast Episode 100: I spoke with former Australian Special Forces 2nd Commando Regiment operator Craig Hamberger who enlisted into the Australian Defence Force in 1999; and served his country proudly for 20+ years. During his posting to 4 Royal Australian Regiment as a Commando, Craig deployed on multiple operations, including Timor Leste, Iraq, and Afghanistan. During one of his deployments in Afghanistan, he was awarded a Commendation for Gallantry. The citation reads "Corporal Hamburger’s gallantry in the face of heavy, accurate and sustained enemy fire ultimately ensured the safety of the other members of his team, and allowed them to regain the initiative, forcing the enemy to withdraw. His actions were of the highest order and in keeping with the finest traditions of the Australian special operations forces, the Australian Army and the Australian Defence Force.” We spoke of the highs and lows of his service, losing mentors and mates, and the challenges many veteran and first responder face when they transition from service…. This is Part 1 of a 3-Part Series telling Craig’s raw, insightful and gallant story. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Craig Hamburger Editor: Kyle Watkins Investigative Consultant: Adam Holloway
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True Blue Conversations - Television Journalist 60 Minutes Reporter Amelia Adams
08/12/2024
True Blue Conversations - Television Journalist 60 Minutes Reporter Amelia Adams
On this week’s podcast, I speak with Television Journalist Amelia Adams. Amelia has been a journalist for more than 21 years; more than 14 of those with the 9 Network. Before joining the 60 Minutes team in 2022, she was Nine’s Senior Foreign Correspondent in North America. Amelia’s live reporting from the US Capitol during the January 6 insurrection saw her win two Kennedy Awards and a Walkley nomination. She has also reported from war zones in Ukraine and Iraq. Amelia covered the volatile final year of Donald Trump’s presidency and led the 9News coverage of the unprecedented 2020 presidential election. She reported from the ‘Black Lives Matter’ protests and the ‘Make America Great Again’ rallies. She was Nine’s London-based Europe and Middle East Correspondent, reporting on Brexit, the fall of Theresa May, and the 2019 UK election. In the Middle East, she covered the Turkish incursion into Syria and the US assassination of Iranian General Qasem Soleimani. She has reported directly from crisis zones around the world including the Fukushima nuclear disaster and the Christchurch earthquake. Over the years Amelia has also regularly filled in hosting the Today Show and Nine’s 6 pm News. Amelia knows how to tell a story, share a story, and put words to paper. We spoke in depth of Amelia’s love for all things military history, the balancing act of being a working Mum and traveling around the world for work and the dangers that reporters face on the frontline. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Amelia Adams Editor: Kyle Watkins Investigative Consultant: Adam Holloway
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True Blue Conversations - Royal Australian Armoured Corps Veteran and Current QFES Station Officer Luke Smith
07/29/2024
True Blue Conversations - Royal Australian Armoured Corps Veteran and Current QFES Station Officer Luke Smith
On this week’s podcast, I speak with a former Australian Army veteran serving in the Royal Australian Infantry 2RAR and Royal Australian Armoured Corps 2nd/14th Light Horse Regiment and 2nd Cavalry Regiment current Queensland Fire Service Station Officer Luke Smith. Luke deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq. In 2011 he applied for the Queensland Fire Service for a position as a firefighter and was accepted. After finishing recruit training, he was posted to Bowen where he spent his first 13 months as a firefighter. Luke transferred to Townsville in 2013 and got heavily involved in the rescue side of fire and rescue becoming highly skilled in swift water, vertical, confined space, trench, and urban search and rescue. He is now also a state instructor for vertical rescue. After promotional courses, he attained the rank of Station Officer/OIC in 2018. In 2021 after a couple of traumatic events from service, he suffered PTSD depression, and anxiety. Luke took 12 months off and worked through that with great support from the Queensland Fire Service and found a way back, we spoke of the challenges faced by veterans and first responders and how important purpose is… Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Luke Smith Editor: Kyle Watkins Investigative Consultant: Adam Holloway
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True Blue Conversations - Australian Special Forces SASR Brigadier Ret. Dan Fortune, DSC and Bar Part 2
07/16/2024
True Blue Conversations - Australian Special Forces SASR Brigadier Ret. Dan Fortune, DSC and Bar Part 2
Part 2 of our chat with former Australian SAS soldier and officer, Brigadier Dan Fortune, DSC and Bar (Retd). Dan joined the Army at 17 years old as a private soldier and served for over 42 years before discharging for medical reasons. Between 1982-1992, Dan completed the SAS selection course three times (Yep wait for the story. He served in a Sabre Squadron for four years as an operator/gunslinger in both HALO / Freefall and Land Assaulter Counter Terrorist roles. We spoke of Dan’s early years in the regiment and his growth as a soldier. We spoke of Dan's time at RMC becoming an officer and then after a short period in 1RAR reattending the entire SAS selection again and passing the course as a LT. We spoke of his service as a Troop Commander and on exchange with US SF then his time as an SAS Officer Commanding on multiple deployments, Bougainville, East Timor, Afghanistan, and Dan’s time as the ADF Tactical Assault Group for the Sydney Olympics in 2000. We discussed his more senior appointments including as CO RMC and as CO of the SOTG (2008) then, when serving in multiple year-long deployments to Afghanistan in senior ISAF SOF Command role, SOHQ as a Brigadier. We discussed his transition from the Army to the Commonwealth SES Public Service appointment in AGSVA and the cost of service to one's family and the challenges facing contemporary SF veterans and their families. For Dan’s leadership in action (under fire, outside the wire..) in Command in Afghanistan, he was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross (2008)and Bar.(2014) Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Dan Fortune Editor: Kyle Watkins Investigative Consultant: Adam Holloway
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True Blue Conversations - Australian Special Forces SASR Brigadier Ret. Dan Fortune, DSC and Bar Part 1
07/02/2024
True Blue Conversations - Australian Special Forces SASR Brigadier Ret. Dan Fortune, DSC and Bar Part 1
On this week’s podcast, I speak with former Australian SAS soldier and officer, Brigadier Dan Fortune, DSC and Bar (Retd). Dan joined the Army at 17 years old as a private soldier and served for over 42 years before discharging for medical reasons. Between 1982-1992, Dan completed the SAS selection course three times (Yep wait for the story.. He served in a Sabre Squadron for four years as an operator/gunslinger in both HALO / Freefall and Land Assaulter Counter Terrorist roles. We spoke of Dan’s early years in the regiment and his growth as a soldier. We spoke of Dan's time at RMC becoming an officer and then after a short period in 1RAR reattending the entire SAS selection again and passing the course as a LT. We spoke of his service as a Troop Commander and on exchange with US SF then his time as an SAS Officer Commanding on multiple deployments, Bougainville, East Timor, Afghanistan, and Dan’s time as the ADF Tactical Assault Group for the Sydney Olympics in 2000. We discussed his more senior appointments including as CO RMC and as CO of the SOTG (2008) then, when serving in multiple year-long deployments to Afghanistan in senior ISAF SOF Command role, SOHQ as a Brigadier. We discussed his transition from the Army to the Commonwealth SES Public Service appointment in AGSVA and the cost of service to one's family and the challenges facing contemporary SF veterans and their families. For Dan’s leadership in action (under fire, outside the wire..) in Command in Afghanistan, he was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross (2008)and Bar.(2014) Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Dan Fortune Editor: Kyle Watkins Investigative Consultant: Adam Holloway
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True Blue Conversations - Navy Veteran Jennifer Wittwer CSM (RET)
06/18/2024
True Blue Conversations - Navy Veteran Jennifer Wittwer CSM (RET)
On this week’s podcast, I speak with former Royal Australian Navy veteran Jennifer Wittwer CSM. Jennifer Wittwer joined the Royal Australian Navy in 1981 as a supply officer. She went on to have an international career as a thought leader, humanitarian, and advocate for women’s rights, equality, and empowerment. Some of her roles in uniform have included being the first ADF Gender Advisor to NATO Operations in Afghanistan, and a secondment to UN Women in New York. She is also the Author of Against the Wind How women can be their authentic selves in male-dominated professions. We spoke about being a female in the Navy during the '80s and '90s and the changes that Jen saw over her 40-plus years of service. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Jennifer Wittwer Editor: Kyle Watkins Investigative Consultant: Adam Holloway
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True Blue Conversations - Special Forces 2nd Commando Regiment CO Brigadier Ian Langford DSC & Two Bars Rtd
06/03/2024
True Blue Conversations - Special Forces 2nd Commando Regiment CO Brigadier Ian Langford DSC & Two Bars Rtd
On this week’s podcast, I speak with former Australian Special Forces 2nd Commando Regiment Commanding Officer Brigadier Ret Ian Langford DSC & Bars. Ian served for 30 years as a senior officer in the Australian Defence Force, Ian had the challenge and opportunity of leading large and small teams in complex and ambiguous environments. Ian held a range of appointments in the Army and Special Forces throughout his career. commanded the 2nd Commando Regiment, as well as multiple Special Operations Task Groups in Afghanistan, Iraq, and on domestic counter-terrorism duties. Ian has also led at the strategic level, responsible for the Army’s future strategic investments, future concepts and capabilities. His deployments include East Timor, Bougainville, Solomon Islands, Iraq, Israel, Lebanon, Syria, Afghanistan, and the South West Pacific. We spoke about commanding troops in battle the loss of mates in battle, and transition and what comes after service. For Ian’s service, he was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross on three occasions the only person to date to receive that honour. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Ian Langford Editor: Kyle Watkins Investigative Consultant: Adam Holloway
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True Blue Conversations - Australian Special Forces 2nd Commando Regiment operator John Dixon
05/20/2024
True Blue Conversations - Australian Special Forces 2nd Commando Regiment operator John Dixon
On this week’s podcast, I speak with former Australian Special Forces 2nd Commando Regiment operator John Dixon. John spent 16 years in the Australian Army. During his postings at 1RAR and 6RAR, he deployed to East Timor which gave him an introduction to military active deployments. After completing SF selection and the Commando reinforcement cycle, John was posted to Bravo Company 4RAR Commando now the 2CDO regiment. He was soon deployed as a special forces operator to Afghanistan on a SOTG (Special Operations Task Group) on his first combat deployment he was on ground the in 2007 the night when Luke Worsley was KIA. After this first deployment, John went on to further highly kinetic operations in Afghanistan in assault teams and as a sniper. He deployed to Iraq in 2015 and the Philippines before discharging the military in 2016. We spoke about the hard transition that all veterans and first responders face when they leave service and finding purpose again after service. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: John Dixon Editor: Kyle Watkins Investigative Consultant: Adam Holloway
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True Blue Conversations - Royal Australian Artillery Warrant Officer Class 2 Mark Henneberry
05/06/2024
True Blue Conversations - Royal Australian Artillery Warrant Officer Class 2 Mark Henneberry
On this week’s podcast, I sat down with Royal Australian Artillery Warrant Officer Class 2 Mark Henneberry. Mark served for 23 years in the RAA. Mark joined the Army at 17. We discussed his deployment to Cambodia in 1993 and the effects of deploying at a young age. Mark talked about what all veterans and first responders face when they discharge, finding purpose after service. Mark found that purpose and now works in defence industries. Mark is a partner with other veterans and first responders for a whiskey company called Wet Canteen Bottling Company. Creating an authentic taste for veterans and first responders to come together and reflect on service and mateship. Head over to Wet Canteen to grab your copy of whiskey today. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Mark Henneberry Editor: Kyle Watkins Investigative Consultant: Adam Holloway
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True Blue Conversations - Director of the Australian War Memorial Matt Anderson PSM
04/24/2024
True Blue Conversations - Director of the Australian War Memorial Matt Anderson PSM
A momentous ANZAC Day 2024 with the launch of my interview with Matt Anderson PSM, an ADF veteran and the Director of the Australian War Memorial, Matt discusses the current and future re-development of the war memorial, as well as what the memorial and the term ‘remembrance” means him. I remain inspired to hear Matt speak about the essence of what makes the war memorial a humbling and meaningful space to learn, commemorate, reflect, and honour the 103,000 men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Matt Anderson PSM Editor: Kyle Watkins Investigative Consultant: Adam Holloway
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True Blue Conversations - A Woman of Force Deborah Wallace Detective Superintendent (Ret) - Part 2
04/15/2024
True Blue Conversations - A Woman of Force Deborah Wallace Detective Superintendent (Ret) - Part 2
On this week’s podcast, I sat down with Detective Superintendent (Ret) Deb Wallace NSW Police veteran serving for 36 years. Deb joined the NSW Police in 1983 and quickly found herself gaining notoriety early in her career when she was involved in the investigation into the murder of 26-year-old nurse Anita Cobby. From this, she was invited to undertake Detective training which led to an extensive career commanding various specialist squads, including the South East Asian Crime Squad, Middle Eastern Organised Crime, and Strike Force Raptor. In the 90s she was a detective at Cabramatta fighting Asian street gangs, including the infamous 5T. She has headed the Middle Eastern Crime Squad (MEOCS) which has been credited with dismantling the vicious Brothers for Life gang responsible for dozens of shootings in Sydney and then moving into Raptor, set up in 2009 targeting OMCG which disrupts bikie business with heavy-handed tactics. In 2019 after a 36-year distinguished career, Deb retired from the NSW police. In retirement, Deb is now the host of Million Dollar Murders which Aires on the Nine Network Deb is also working with the parole board of NSW and working with Grace’s Place the centre named in honour of Grace Lynch mother of Anita Cobby. The primary purpose of Grace’s Place is to provide a unique place of healing and restoration for children who have lost a loved one to homicide. Deb’s autobiography A Woman OF Force was published in 2020 and is available online and in bookstores. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Deborah Wallace Editor: Kyle Watkins Investigative Consultant: Adam Holloway
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True Blue Conversations - A Woman of Force Deborah Wallace Detective Superintendent (Ret)
04/08/2024
True Blue Conversations - A Woman of Force Deborah Wallace Detective Superintendent (Ret)
On this week’s podcast, I sat down with Detective Superintendent (Ret) Deb Wallace NSW Police veteran serving for 36 years. Deb joined the NSW Police in 1983 and quickly found herself gaining notoriety early in her career when she was involved in the investigation into the murder of 26-year-old nurse Anita Cobby. From this, she was invited to undertake Detective training which led to an extensive career commanding various specialist squads, including the South East Asian Crime Squad, Middle Eastern Organised Crime, and Strike Force Raptor. In the 90s she was a detective at Cabramatta fighting Asian street gangs, including the infamous 5T. She has headed the Middle Eastern Crime Squad (MEOCS) which has been credited with dismantling the vicious Brothers for Life gang responsible for dozens of shootings in Sydney and then moving into Raptor, set up in 2009 targeting OMCG which disrupts bikie business with heavy-handed tactics. In 2019 after a 36-year distinguished career, Deb retired from the NSW police. In retirement, Deb is now the host of Million Dollar Murders which Aires on the Nine Network Deb is also working with the parole board of NSW and working with Grace’s Place the centre named in honour of Grace Lynch mother of Anita Cobby. The primary purpose of Grace’s Place is to provide a unique place of healing and restoration for children who have lost a loved one to homicide. Deb’s autobiography A Woman OF Force was published in 2020 and is available online and in bookstores. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Deborah Wallace Editor: Kyle Watkins Investigative Consultant: Adam Holloway
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True Blue Conversations - Johanna Griggs AM TV Personality / Former Commonwealth Games Swimmer
03/18/2024
True Blue Conversations - Johanna Griggs AM TV Personality / Former Commonwealth Games Swimmer
On this week’s podcast I sat down with Television Personality Johanna Griggs AM Before Johanna was on our television screens; she was a superstar Australian swimmer. We spoke about Joh’s life growing up, representing Australia, and winning a bronze medal at the 1990 Commonwealth Games. We spoke about Joh entering the world of television at such a young age and how hard it is in the media industry. The highs and lows that come with being in the public eye. We also spoke about Joh’s passion the work she does as a director of Beyond Blue. Joh is a true professional, but what really sets Joh apart is her warmth and genuine interest in others what you see on TV is how she is in real life she is a star. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Johanna Griggs AM Editor: Kyle Watkins Investigative Consultant: Adam Holloway
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True Blue Conversations - Former NSW Undercover & Tactical Police Officer Andrew “Panda” MacFarlane
03/05/2024
True Blue Conversations - Former NSW Undercover & Tactical Police Officer Andrew “Panda” MacFarlane
On this week’s podcast I sat down with former NSW Police Officer Andrew “Panda” MacFarlane We spoke about his life and serving for 21 years in the NSW Police Force. The roller coaster ride in policing that stretched from being a general duties officer, then moving to undercover roles in various agencies including the NSW Crime Commission NSW Drug Enforcement Agency, Being a tactical operator (high risk policing operations) CT Command and Australian Federal Police then finishing up in Dignitary Protection. We also spoke about the loss of colleges the toll of serving at the sharp end of policing. Andy faced what every first responder and veteran face when they transition from service finding purpose again after service. Andy has found purpose again and currently works in the mining industry. Thank you for your service Andy and to all your fellow brother and sisters who walk the thin blue line. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Andrew MacFarlane Editor: Kyle Watkins Investigative Consultant: Adam Holloway
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True Blue Conversations - Michael “Slatt’s” Slattery 2nd Commando Regiment Combat Medic
02/26/2024
True Blue Conversations - Michael “Slatt’s” Slattery 2nd Commando Regiment Combat Medic
On this week’s podcast speak with former Royal Australian Army Medical Corps Warrant Officer from the 2nd Commando Regiment Michael "Slatts" Slattery. Slatt’s enlisted in 1986 as a medic in the Australian Army serving 26years with multiple postings to different units. At the age of 36 Slatt’s attempted and passed the Commando Selection Training Course then completing the demanding Commando reinforcement cycle earning his beret qualifying as a special force’s operator. During his career he deployed on multiple operations including Iraq working alongside US medical doctors, nurses, and medics inside a role 2 medical facility. He also deployed to Afghanistan as the Special Operations Task Group CSM however found his way onto a US AME helicopter providing over 75 air medical evacuations. After 26 years Slatt’s discharged from the army and now works as a nurse and also currently training director with SOTER International , Where he teaches all the experience he learnt in combat. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Michael Slattery Editor: Kyle Watkins Investigative Consultant: Adam Holloway
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True Blue Conversations - Matthew Connelly Cavanagh
02/05/2024
True Blue Conversations - Matthew Connelly Cavanagh
On this week’s podcast, I speak to 3 RAR / Current Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) Station Officer Matthew Connelly Cavanagh. Matt was posted into 3 RAR and deployed to East Timor in 1999. In 2000, Matt then transferred to Army Fire Service. In 2004, Matt discharged from the Army and joined the ACT Fire Brigade until 2008. In that same year, Matt went on to join the Queensland Fire Department. Matt is currently a station officer and a recruit instructor passing on his knowledge and over 20 years. Fire experience to new recruits. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Matthew Connelly Cavanagh Editor: Kyle Watkins Investigative Consultant: Adam Holloway
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True Blue Conversations - NSW Police & Fire Rescue NSW Firefighter Veteran Mitch Parker
01/22/2024
True Blue Conversations - NSW Police & Fire Rescue NSW Firefighter Veteran Mitch Parker
On this week’s podcast I speak to Mitch Parker former NSW Police officer former Superintendent NSW SES Command of the New England and Retained Fire Fighter with Fire and Rescue NSW. Mitch spent 17 years within the NSW police and 17 years and counting as a retained fire fighter with NSW Fire and Rescue. During his time within both roles Mitch has many stories from incidents that even led to receiving commendations for bravery as both police officer and firefighter. After an extensive career serving the community on the front lines he moved onto the role as Superintendent NSW SES Command of the New England and North West of Western Zone within the NSW State Emergency Service better know as the SES. Mitch now works for the NSW Reconstruction Authority working to rebuild after natural disasters. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Mitch Parker Editor: Kyle Watkins Investigative Consultant: Adam Holloway
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True Blue Conversations - Australian Army Photographer Veteran Rachel Ingram Part 2
01/08/2024
True Blue Conversations - Australian Army Photographer Veteran Rachel Ingram Part 2
On part two of our chat with Rachel Ingram we speak about coming back from deployments. Being medically discharged from the Army after 19 year’s service and facing what every veteran faces when they leave the ADF, Transition, finding purpose after service and finding a new identity away from Defence the highs and the lows faced by all veterans and first responders when they leave service. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Rachel Ingram Editor: Kyle Watkins Investigative Consultant: Adam Holloway
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True Blue Conversations - Australian Army Photographer Veteran Rachel Ingram Part 1
12/26/2023
True Blue Conversations - Australian Army Photographer Veteran Rachel Ingram Part 1
On this week’s podcast, I speak with Army veteran Rachel Ingram. Rache served for 19 years in the Australian Army deployed on multiple deployments, including East Timor, Afghanistan, Iraq, Solomon Islands, and multiple deployments in Australia. Rache was a photographer in the Army and covered many official events throughout her service. Rache was serving with 1RAR as part of the Mentoring and Reconstruction Task Force (MRTF – 2) in 2009 where Private Ben Ranaudo was killed by an anti-personnel explosive device and seriously wounded private Paul Warren on the 18th of July 2009. After 19 years in the Army, Rachel was medically discharged in 2014 and faced what all veterans face, what life is like after service, and finding purpose again. This is a raw and honest 2-part chat. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Rachel Ingram Editor: Kyle Watkins Investigative Consultant: Adam Holloway
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True Blue Conversations - Australian Special Forces 2nd Commando Regiment/ Police Veteran : The Tip of the Spear
12/12/2023
True Blue Conversations - Australian Special Forces 2nd Commando Regiment/ Police Veteran : The Tip of the Spear
On this week’s podcast I speak with Australian Special Forces 2nd Commando Regiment Veteran / Police Officer Murray Turner. A friend submitted an application on behalf of Murray to become a NSW Police Officer. After a short two-year career as a Police Officer, Murray was looking to further his career in which he decided to join the Royal Australian Army. Upon being accepted into the military post training he was posted to the 2nd Battalion Royal Australian Regiment. He then completed selection for then 4RAR Commando which now is the 2nd Commando Regiment. He spent a total of 16 years as a Commando deploying to East Timor and multiple highly kinetic Afghanistan operations as part of Special Operations Task Group, also working in Tactical Assault Group (TAG- EAST). Murray spoke of his deployments the cost of war service losing mates in combat and transiting from the Special Forces and finding purpose again after service a raw and honest chat. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Murray Turner Editor: Kyle Watkins Investigative Consultant: Adam Holloway
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True Blue Conversations - WA Police Officer Stephanie Bochorsky
11/27/2023
True Blue Conversations - WA Police Officer Stephanie Bochorsky
On this week’s podcast I speak with Western Australian Police Officer / Army veteran Senior Constable Stephanie Bochorsky SC, who had a willingness to serve and her dream was to join the police from a young age. This dream was achieved in 2008 when Stephanie was accepted into the WA Police academy, Steph had to overcome adversity and also sat the police entrance exam on the day her Mother passed away. All of her training could not prepare her for what she would face In the early morning of 28 August 2015, Senior Constable (then First Class Constable) Stephanie Bochorsky rescued two young children who had been covered with fuel and set alight at a house in Doubleview, Western Australia. At approximately 12:30am, Constable Bochorsky was off-duty and at home when she heard a female neighbour screaming in the street. She opened her door and saw a woman in her dressing gown. Steph yelled out to her if she needed help to which she responded, “He’s setting my kids on fire”. Constable Bochorsky immediately left her own home and approached the property. As she entered the home, she smelt a strong odour of petrol. She made her way to a bedroom and on entering the room. She was confronted with a 3 year old child standing in her cot with her head engulfed in flames. Constable Bochorsky grabbed a nearby blanket and began to extinguish the flames on the small child. After extinguishing the flames, Steph felt a presence behind her within the room, as she turned around, Steph saw a naked man standing next to a small bed - the father of the children - armed with a fuel can. He was in the process of pouring petrol onto the second child who was lying in bed. Despite the presence of the violent man, the offender continued to pour petrol onto the young girl's face who was struggling to breathe. Constable Bochorsky, without regard for her own safety, removed the young child from the cot and grabbed the girl from the bed and quickly left the house. She took the youngest girl to her own home where she placed the child in the bathtub and began to administer first aid to the child's burns. By her actions, Senior Constable Bochorsky displayed conspicuous courage, For her Actions on that night Steph was awarded the Inaugural National Police Bravery Award, the Commissioner's Award for Bravery and in 2019 Steph was awarded the Star of Courage. Steph is now studying to be a psychologist.
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True Blue Conversations - Damien Thomlinson 2nd Commando Veteran
11/13/2023
True Blue Conversations - Damien Thomlinson 2nd Commando Veteran
On this week’s podcast I speak with Damien Thomlinson former 2nd Commando Regiment Operator, Author, Actor, Motivational Speaker , Golfer, Double Amputee IED Survivor. Inspired by the military service of his grandfather, Damien joined the Australian Defence Force and at the age of just 24 achieved his dream of becoming a Commando. This elite group is tasked with the most physically demanding, mentally challenging and dangerous roles in the armed forces. He joined the in 2005, It was while serving in Afghanistan with the 2nd Commando Regiment that Thomlinson’s life was changed forever. In April 2009, whilst on night patrol in Southern Afghanistan, Damien’s unit drove over an improvised explosive device planted by the Taliban. Damien suffered horrendous injuries in the explosion, which resulted in both of his legs being amputated. The damage to his body was so severe his medical team claim it is a miracle he wasn’t killed, and there were many times throughout his immediate treatment and beyond that medical staff did not think he would pull through. This is an inspiring conversation about Damien’s military career, his life after the blast and how he turned that fateful day into the best thing that ever happened to him. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Damien Thomlinson Editor: Kyle Watkins Investigative Consultant: Adam Holloway
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