Moondyne

Moondyne was the alias and nickname of Joseph Johns (c. 1826 – 1 August 1900), a Welsh convict known for his multiple escapes from prisons and work parties in Western Australia during the late 19th century. His story has become a significant part of Western Australian folklore.

Johns was originally transported to Western Australia in 1853 for theft. His initial good behaviour bond was forfeited and he was sentenced to further time after being convicted of stealing a horse. He subsequently earned his notoriety through repeated escapes from custody.

Moondyne's escapes often involved daring strategies and skillful bushcraft, leading to widespread public fascination and fueling his reputation as a folk hero, a symbol of resistance against the harsh conditions and perceived injustices of the convict system. He was known for his ability to survive in the harsh Australian outback and to evade capture for extended periods.

The Western Australian colonial authorities dedicated significant resources to apprehending Moondyne, viewing his repeated escapes as a challenge to their authority. One particularly elaborate escape involved breaking out of a seemingly inescapable prison cell, leading to the construction of a specially designed "escape-proof" cell for him.

Following his final capture, Johns was eventually granted a ticket-of-leave. He spent his later years working as a station hand and lived a relatively quiet life.

The story of Moondyne continues to be retold in books, plays, and films, cementing his place in Australian history and folklore as a legendary figure of defiance and resourcefulness. The name "Moondyne" has also been adopted for various places, products, and organizations in Western Australia.