John Francis Peggotty, the ostrich-riding bushranger from South Australia: fact or fiction?

Some say John Francis Peggotty rode his ostrich shirtless, while others reckon he donned dresses and skirts. Either way, the man loved gold. (ABC Science: Jessica Crombie)

In the main street of the South Australian town of Meningie stands a life-sized saddled-up statue of an ostrich.

The sign beside the big bird tells of bushranger John Francis Peggotty, also known as the Birdman of the Coorong, who gallivanted around the region, robbing Cobb & Co coaches on ostrich-back.