When Father Christmas came to Pentridge

One such event took place over 70 years ago when the prisoners had a surprise visit from Santa Claus. This is the story of Harold ‘Dusty’ Sheehan, who could get out of — and into — Pentridge Prison as easily as Old St Nick down a chimney.

On Boxing Day in 1952, Harold ‘Dusty’ Sheehan, a prolific criminal, decided to spread some Christmas cheer at Pentridge Prison. ‘Dusty’ had recently been released from a long stretch inside Pentridge and on this day dressed as Santa Claus, climbed over the prison’s high bluestone walls and snuck back in. Once inside he gave gifts of tobacco and cigarettes to his former cellmates and friends.  

All was going to plan for Dusty until the guards caught him waiting for an opportunity to leave again – hiding under a building. For his attempt at sharing some ‘Festive Joy’, Dusty was later charged with being a rogue and ‘vagabond’ (or vagrant, someone who wanders from place to place without a fixed home) and with being in an enclosed yard without lawful excuse. He was sentenced to six months prison.  

The incident caused a stir both inside and outside the prison. While the inmates were delighted by the unexpected visit, prison authorities were left red-faced by the security breach.  

To hear more about this festive tale, listen to the Forgotten Australia podcast episode ‘When Santa Broke Into Pentridge’ 

The story of Santa’s visit to Pentridge has become part of the prison’s folklore, a lighthearted and amusing anecdote in contrast to its darker history. Today, Pentridge Prison is a popular tourist attraction, offering guided tours that provide visitors with a glimpse into its intriguing and confronting p ast. 

If you’re interested in exploring the history of Pentridge Prison, you can book a guided tour to discover more about its infamous inmates, dramatic escapes, and unique stories that have shaped its legacy. Book a Pentridge Prison Tour here – you can even buy a gift card to send a friend or family member to the ‘lock-up’ for the day.