BGM_The Battle of Melbourne Panic: When Melbourne Feared the Russian

On the night of October 6, 1854, Naarm - Melbourne braced for war - against an enemy that never came. In this episode of Down the Yarra, we unpack the bizarre and chaotic day when the residents of Naarm - Melbourne panicked over a rumoured Russian invasion. With bells ringing banks locking up gold, and the citizens grabbing muskets and shovels, the city when into full defiance mode - all thanks to a mistaken ship sighting. From the gold rush chaos to global tensions during the Crimean War, this is the wild tale of the “Battle of Melbourne Panic” - a moment in history when fear ran faster than fact. Trigger Warning: This episode contains references to military tensions and invasion panic, that may be distressing for some listeners. Next Stop: Naarm - Melbourne’s oldest pubs, including the Mitre Tavern and the long-lost Yorkshire Stingo. So grab a pint - we’re heading into the social heart of colonial Melbourne.