This was a good one. The 20-year-old guy who had a tough childhood seemed like a good guy. Really liked how you came back to his story after it was interrupted by the window being smashed.
Yeah well said. I was really listening to what he had to say and then when the window interrupted him I was spewing but when Span went back to him and got him to continue I thought that was fantastic. Seems there's quite a few of us in the comments who were really impressed with that young fella and feel there's a really good young man there who just needs an opportunity ( apprenticeship of similar), a chance at learning a trade or skill set which he can use to better himself and create a wonderful life for himself. If he's reading this I wish him all the best and I'd love to see Span go back and pay him a visit one day. Cheers.
Blake seems like a good young man . He’s been dragged up in society, been a ward of the state, has had no parental guidance yet has ended up being quite a good kid considering his childhood. I hope he succeeds in life. best of luck Blake ❤
I wish Blake all the best for his future. He seems like a good kid and he seems like he’s on the right track mentally. Looking up to role models such as Spanian is definitely the right move and if he keeps that same mindset I’m sure he’ll achieve his dream of travelling real soon.
With his reach into so many different geographically different communities, and the amount of people that stop him on walks wanting a photo & to say hello, it seems like Spanian is doing a hell of a lot more for the underprivileged in society than any bloody politician is here in Australia! Keep it up Spanian!
He inspires them to be better in life. He also did pay for an Aboriginal fella's nephew's funeral - as seen in his last video. So yeah, I guess he DOES do a lot for them, smartass!! :D
Who is expecting him to do that though? You probably never done that in life ya manyak what his doing is showcasing what people go through , then hopefully one day people will wake up.. @user-wu1dv6jk5s
That last guy, Blake, seriously Spanian you need to take that guy with you on your travels to the world's ghettos. He had such a great humble vibe, and you can see the guy has potential, speaks well, young enthusiastic, he would make a great partner for the journey
@35:05 you can see how much you’ve impacted that young lads life. When he talks about where he’s from he looks really angry and frustrated. As soon as you asked him about himself and he mentioned you watch his eyes light up and his mood change I wish him the best
Right! That was so heart-warming. I hope he goes far, seems like a nice dude with a good attitude. He was dealt a shit hand as a kid, but he's trying to make the most of his life.
You are absolutely right about the people. I grew up rough and only want the best for them. Don't agree about the production though... the titles seem disingenuous. The Swedish episode was worse with zero interactions or factual information related to "dangerous hood". The only thing "dangerous" is his ability to mislead to make money thru clickbait.'
yeah i agree thats true but thats what youtubers do to get clicks and apart from that they are well produced and i think his main goal is to just see what its abt and educate us on it @@pithius2191
This shows nothing to be honest. Dude needs to go at night in a car. But again he too famous to find or put himself into anything real. Google maps can show you more.
Charliebo313 He shows real night shit, from the states watch them. Unbelievable. These vids of spainian are making Australia look like the biggest pussies in the world.
Hey Blake, if you get to read this ….. I hope you can see your worth, there’s something about you that comes across differently to many other young guys in your situation. If you can get yourself an apprenticeship or something, I have no doubt you’ll go far in life. You’ve got this young man.
Blake seems like such a nice genuine guy iv never wished someone to be in a more better situation then that lad, honest you should go meet him again. thanks for the content mate love every video.
I grew up in Warrawong, my mum grew up in Warrawong and my dad grew up in Berkeley. Im so grateful to all the amazing teachers and youth workers in these areas - I can't imagine a tougher gig - but fuck - one person believing in you can make a world difference. Glad I got out.
aww yesss warrawong high was cool, when i went there then i went to port Kembela senior college; Old warrawong high; we used to call it a prison school haha.. as we wore all green.. i was there since 2000-2003
We all are wishing you the very best Blake. Your brave honesty and good heart has really touched us all🙏 thank you Span for giving a safe space for the young boys to speak up and for showing an unspoken side of Australia and the world ❤️
I watched my first video of yours just a week ago, and I’m now watching you walk through streets and past houses I smoked ice in about 12 years ago. I’m glad it’s all a thing of the past. Love your content and effort bro, all the best 💚
For reference, Wollongong was a successful steel mill back in the day, and also a cultural center for young creatives. AC/DC and lots of other groups made their name at pubs and venues in the Gong before heading abroad. Eventually the steel mill dried up and everyone was left without income, so it became a drug hotspot and long-term result is what you see today.
well actually if you go back a little further, adam and eve were chilling when a snake approached eve and convinced her to take a bite into an apple, which long-term has resulted in what you see today.
Good on ya Spanian, Thank you for taking us into the hood from our lounges and living rooms, we really appreciate it! we get to see the real side of how people both good and bad are living in these lower income areas.... hectic, mad, haha!
My mum's family grew up in Berkeley in the 50's-60's and back then it was a brand new suburb for people working at the Steelworks, one of those prosperous and safe "no-one locked their doors" kinda neighbourhoods. Then over time a lot of the Steelworks jobs dried up and places like Berkeley and Warrawong suffered, crime went up and the people who could afford to left.
Hey Spanny, the blokes in prison who said they were from the Gong probably meant the surrounding areas. The Illawarra is a large place with plenty of low socio-economic suburbs, Wollongong being the central hub. Everyone from Illa just says they're from the Gong which probably massively inflates the perceived numbers.
U can call him Spanios or Spanners mate. Be careful running ya mouth calling my man “Spanny”…. Because he would crack ya jaw if he heard you say that because Spanny is a slang term for a gay guy in some areas mate….
@@mendaciousreality8459 you're not hard cuz, not sure why you're tryna be someone you're not. put the phone down instead of defending someone you've never shaken hands with.
Brother U can see that it's not the most natural thing for you to interact with people showing love but it's so humbling and an absolutely amazing to see you do so
Never thought I'd actually be interested in watching these sorts of videos, but I'm here every hood vid, such well put together and educational about the types of areas too. Surely come down Victoria way eventually.
Interesting watch. Please note that this is such a small snapshot of what Wollongong is. It's a beautiful area and the drugs and crime are confined to small areas. 99% of people here aren't living this life and don't see it while that go about their day. But it definitely exists
I grew up in Warrawong in the fifties.Housing Commission.Never met anyone who went to gaol.Back in those days a lot of the tenants had jobs.I never met anyone who did drugs either.Wollongong is not a small town.However social problems have worsened every where in Australia.
Absolutely loved grew up 2528 and lived in Warrawong has to be one of the truest videos I have seen on the areas full respect Spanian keep it up bro 💪👊
I've been watching every episode and l really do admire your strength with the change you have made with your life. I'm 53 and l have a younger brother who is 41 and in and out if you what l mean, ive lost count of his holidays. Long story short l want the best for him and I'll make sure that he subscribes to your channel once he gets out. You are such a positive example of what we all can do in life, CHANGE! Cheers Tracey xo
Exactly Tracey kids don’t get out like we used to and they turn to influence via the internet and this guy is creating great content even the young lad Wayne said he wants to be like spanian and see the world
What else apart from getting lucky with youtube has he done positively in his life ? nothing therefore he cant teach anyone anything he doesn't know, he is 1 in a million that jagged a following he has never worked a day in his life which in reality for most crims who want to " change there life " he cant teach them anything seriously
@@Palmwhat seriously, are you joking, your comment is so negative. Why watch his content if you don't like it or you don't see the huge change that he has made in his life. I guess that you have no idea about him. It's people like you who contribute to people like him not even trying to change their lives around. Who cares wether he is out there digging holes for a job or doing what is doing now, he is making a difference in many many young people's lives because he has been there and done it and now he is showing everyone that it is possible to turn your life around. There's so much more that l could say but I'm guessing from your comment that you already have your mind set. Hopefully one day you'll have to deal with someone close to you that has gone through so much and who knows maybe then you'll look at things differently, cheers Tracey
@@traceykitchin9722 ive watched him since day 1 i am not hating just a realest good on him for people looking upto him its good but its not realistic for alot of them wake up to yourself
Probably my favourite Into The Hood. Low-key and informative. I love every episode including the rowdy ones but these episodes are exceptional. I'm uk based and been entertaining the idea of moving to aus, I grew up similar to Spano. These episodes are sunnier versions of my home.
Wow it hasn’t changed, as a kid we used to go to llawong flats to visit a family friend, being young you were told not to go to far away this was 40 years ago and still true . This show of yours Spainan has not only made people aware of situations but made it real for your viewers to understand where it’s at. LIFE Well done Brother
I wish the young man who showed you around and the young man near the end a bright future ahead. I hope they both get the chance to make something of themselves and create a happier and healthier life for themselves. 🙏
Wollongong is pretty interesting cause it has the old industries like the steel works and coal mines with the working class aussies then it also has all the uni students, like polar opposites.
Well said. I felt for the young guy and you can just tell he's a really good kid who just needs someone who's see's that good and will take him under their wing and provide him that chance or opportunity to make something of his life... I really hope he finds that ..
Every time i watch one of these into the hoods it just brings me back to my upbringing in St Clair, Erskine Park. The 90's seem so far away now but you have a way of bringing back those memories. Much love Spanian.
@@Honorablepitbull Are you saying therefore these videos aren’t supposed to remind me of my childhood? We were on the poorer end of those who lived in Erskine park, which is right next door to Mt Druitt. I would say our street life was very comparable to that of these areas. We often crossed over into St Mary’s, Colyton, Penrith, the druitt etc. Same same.
@@111222442 na bro didn't mean that and I'm from Plumpton myself which is also a middle class suburb like Erskine Park. Myself was also in a heavily mortgaged household where not much was left over and lead to family violence arguing over money. It's just the term "Mt Druitt" that gets thrown around so loosely by those who watch a video or two but have no idea that it's actually just some suburbs within the Luxford Rd ring that have public housing. But it's just a normal area if you do your thing, go to work and enjoy.
Thanks for coming down the gong spanian! Shame you didn’t get to check out 2528 that is warilla/barrack heights gets very ordinary out there let me tell ya, you can’t be everywhere at once tho mate. Shame I didn’t bump into you but thanks for being an inspiration for the younger gen heading down the wrong path and they really look up to you and see that if they want a future they don’t have to be a sheep they can be a shepherd if they choose. Keep up the content bro
I’d be really interested if you could do a Canberra hood. We have a few places here that are pretty rough and have some decent history! People think Canberra is all fancy but it definitely has its rough parts too! Keep doing the work you’re doing, I love seeing each upload of this series, better than anything mainstream media covers!
Just a suggestion bro which I think would make your videos even better. If you can get one of those wireless mics to put on the people you’re walking around with, sometimes they’re really hard to hear when they’re not close to the camera and the background music offend drowns them out. Other than that. Keep crushing it
Would love for you to go back & have a chat to some of the lads in the youth housing. To hear their stories etc. I reckon they'd learn a lot from you and what you've been through. You could make a huge impact in that way. I doubt many of them have positive role models. Keep up the great work 🤘
Cmon yous have to understand he doesnt want to work "its not him " which is going to be a reality for most the kids he has to reach out to he got lucky with youtube he wouldn't know the first thing about hard work
@@TeekayPlayz not at all i love him watch him every time, but people need to get real he cant teach much about real life which most people have to live i am just saying get real about him talking to youth
I think that’s what the show is about everyone he has on the show they are talking about who they are and how they became to be here for him to go and talk to everyone that’s not possible everyone has a story sounds like he has to vet these people first because you don’t wanna have someone on your channel then they come and sue you for something
I am a gong girl through and through grew up in Dapto, Bellambi and Berkeley. Like any area some good some bad but things have calmed down since the 80s, 90s. Berkeley is great now it has cleaned up since then.
I hope after you filmed this Anthony, that you pulled this fella up and gave him a good little back story of your own and tell him that he can keep on the up and never has to look back.
Need more Spanians in these areas to set a better example for the kids growing up there. Should go to Nowra next! Always something wild going on there every time I've gone through the area.
Loved that! Thanks so much for coming to Wollongong. I got to see the places I smoked in and bought gear from before I got clean in 2017. Really appreciate being able to see it all again for the first time in years.
Never thought I'd be watching vlogs yet here I am watching Spanian every day since UA-cam algorithm showed him to me. Keep up the hood work Spanian, cheers
That young fella seemed good, you should try organise to take him over seas somewhere spanian if you can or in Australia for a couple days, he said he wants to travel like you, reckon he would appreciate. Would be a great opportunity for him.
Shout to all those out there trying to better themselves and aiming for better days. Nothing wrong with falling over, just remember to pick yourself up and keep on keeping on. We learn from our mistakes. Some days we win, some days we lose, but at least we are still in the game...
Funny about the blokes from Wollongong. Same as Gold Coast. I worked as a drug and alcohol counsellor at Woodford CC (Qld). The amount of dudes from Gold Coast I met there was insane (not too mention Caboolture 😅). Meet quite a few blokes who had done time in the old school jails in NSW as well, all good solid blokes, mainly old school crims. Good to hear you're on the straight and narrow now brother, stay strong and stay safe!
Through your trials and tribulations, you have demonstrated that success is achievable for everyone, regardless of their humble beginnings or challenging upbringing. Your example serves as living proof to the youth that one's environment can shape them through choice. We thank you for being an inspiration and encourage you to continue creating and documenting your journey. You are the embodiment of success, and we wish you all the best. May God bless you.
Thanks for your work mate! I didn't know Wollongong was so criminal. The story with the smashed window gave you a good content :) I would highly appreciate, if you could explore and show us the bad neighbourhoods of the Central Coast and/or Newcastle. Keep it up mate!
That young lad seems positive. With all the negatives around him, he sees it clear and I'm glad you've inspired him to one day see the world. Doing good things bruvah.
Spaniard, you good thing...xx, you made me laugh, moments you had in Wollongong. The dog, haha, then the sick sounding rooster..next minute, the dudes in that car.. window breaking,( some one having a bad day) lol haha, so 😂 As you said , (while I was actually thinking the same thing) you said, luckily peeps know who you are... otherwise walking in the different hood areas with a go pro, surely would be a no go. Lol. You are very cool, love how you meet and greet all, no hesitation, no judgement. Watching your clips over the last month, all respect & admiration for you brother, love your work.❤
Its blowing me out much respect i know so many people that live there i lived Wollongong 39 years of life im 42 and lived housing since I was ten and there all good people mostly including you so spewing i didn't get meet ya bro much respect ✌️
He's not wrong when he says they mix the expensive areas with the poorer areas. It's a bit jarring to hear the statistic that Warrawong & Berkeley rank right at the top in the state for violent crimes. I grew up in Lake Heights (smack bang in between Warrawong & Berkeley) in the 80's & 90's and I never really felt as though I was living in a rough area. Hell! Even as recently as 6 or 7 years ago, I was living one street away from Legoland in Warrawong, and I used to drive through there all the time to go to the shops (plus when I used to go jogging along Northcliffe Drive, I would always pass the entrance of Legoland) and I never felt particularly threatened. Though I remember my ex never felt safe when we lived there (and she grew up in Merrylands in Western Sydney! 😂)...in hindsight, maybe I was just oblivious or maybe I was desensitised 🤷♂️ We lived across the road from a dealer and my ex hated that fact. I always saw it as a positive because I knew that his customers would never cause trouble so close to his home because it would draw unwanted attention to him. LOL!
Sense I’ve found your UA-cam I can’t stop waiting you videos I’ve got so much respect for you what you been through to turn it around the way you have what a man love watching you stuff
Mad Episode !! All the best in your future endeavours Blake ! To go through what he has and is still hopeful and trying too better himself!! Legend. Cheers @spanian 🇦🇺💯
Glad you brought up the youth housing… I’m 37 now was in crisis youth refuge at 16 it saved my life, the youth workers were amazing… If you research who founded it you’d see that historically Wollongong is a dark place, but lots of hope
Australia is one of those places that looks nice but like anywhere else it's got it's trenches that are no strangers to gangs, violence, crime, drugs, poverty. I don't debate who's hoods are tougher because at the end of the day we all share similar struggles. Big respect to anyone in the struggle trying to stay on a righteous path and I'm not even religious. But hey if that's what works for you cool. Whatever you gotta do to stay on a positive path because I know what it's like to get sucked in by the streets stuck in the bando bagging up and getting addicted to drugs myself, in and out of jail, stuck in public housing, even homeless at times. Fuck all that shit. I know I could say a bunch of cliche keep your head up type bullshit but that ain't gonna help anyone and neither is hope but wherever you are, Jesus Christ lol I can't do this cringey inspirational bullshit. But yo I really want through some shit, my wife died, I was alone, I lost everything. Somehow managed to pull through and at least get off the dope so it is possible to at least bounce back from addiction and start to rebuild little by little. That's the best I can do lol. Hope you all have a blessed day.
Jesus Christ is Lord man and set me free - from the hood of east Nowra NSW - mentioned in this video 😂 God bless..! And he can set anyone free even gang bangers and drug addicts, that's his specialty, call on JESUS all those going through despair, don't end your life my friends, GOD has a plan for you. Satan couldn't destroy you, or this evil world praise God there's a place in heaven for those who come to Christ. Peace.
@@trustjesus1250🥱🥱🥱🥱🥱🥱🥱 but none will repent so you just wasted all time with dribble. None of them will see heaven until then. These are to degenerate to do so. They are shyat outta luck 😉😂😂😂😂😂 learn before you preach and don't add smiley faces when trying to be serious. That shows me you don't even believe what you say. They are doing Satan's work clown
That's right about Australia, and the rest of the world, but Only Jesus Christ can save us from our wretched sinful selves, and He ain't religious, He's the Son of The Most High God. Peace 🕊️
Bellzas always been as houseo as it is now was much worse in the drive through days, seems to go through cycles bad few years later not as bad then bad again 😂
@@thepontiff7505 ah shit no good man but i think everyone would of had sonething stolen back then 🤣 definitely miss those days staithes mews is a lot different now after they knocked heaps of houses down and put that big bit of grass in the middle, so many dodgy alley ways around bellza back then too that got blocked off
I grew up in koonawarra ,then balgownie as a teen,then warrawong,mangerton,then moved up the north coast housing in Grafton,mangerton and warrawong were hoods back in the 90s,looks like not much has changed
Doing an awesome job spanian and crew. I enjoy every episode. I think you truly are making an impact on the youth mate. Just to hear how many look up to you and that is inspiring them to try to get better is epic. Thanks for Keeping it real bro.
Mangerton is 2 minute's away from my unit complex and unfortunately i have an open garage and the amount of people that have tried to steal my motorbikes is crazy i have videos of people with blow torches coming in trying to steal them and everything. Within 1 year i had about 20 attempts of stealing my dirt bikes. At the end they kept ripping my cameras out i gave up and sold my bikes. I Recently bought a new registered dirt bike and unfortunately it didn't last long Within 3 months it was stolen. Im going to get proper camera's drilled in to the wall because its just out of control now. Only one time i caught 2 junkies in the garage in the day time i chased them all the way to the methadone clinic and one pulled out a blade so a backed off and left it at that. Should of gone down to bellambi way worse then Berkeley in my opinion. 😂 As per usual love your content and was super happy to see you do a video in my area! ❤
i was living in old Lego from 2000 to 2003, gosh it brings back memories watching it! omg it had cleared up a little but i remember we choose the colour of the fences, it was not much to choose from... i was living at old Griffen street. i still remember the guys was playing cricket on the road outside of our place; the rock got thrown through our window, car got bomb once and our letter box haha.. as my mother would not shut her mouth- those fun times i tell ya!!
Shout out to Blake wanting to make a change irrespective of his tough circumstances. This is the best thing about Spanian he inspires these young ones to change.
This was a good one. The 20-year-old guy who had a tough childhood seemed like a good guy. Really liked how you came back to his story after it was interrupted by the window being smashed.
Yeah well said. I was really listening to what he had to say and then when the window interrupted him I was spewing but when Span went back to him and got him to continue I thought that was fantastic. Seems there's quite a few of us in the comments who were really impressed with that young fella and feel there's a really good young man there who just needs an opportunity ( apprenticeship of similar), a chance at learning a trade or skill set which he can use to better himself and create a wonderful life for himself. If he's reading this I wish him all the best and I'd love to see Span go back and pay him a visit one day. Cheers.
right on, good looking young man with a smart head on his shoulders, some of these kids just need a break hey.. nice 1 spanian. @@malsmith2012
I noticed that too, Spanian's a good lad.
Awareness on point ❤
I agree what a top young fella
Blake seems like a good young man .
He’s been dragged up in society, been a ward of the state, has had no parental guidance yet has ended up being quite a good kid considering his childhood. I hope he succeeds in life. best of luck Blake ❤
Seeing that kid say he wants to be like you Spanian, and travel the world... best moment in the hood tour x
He's inspiring people which is awesome
Yes, opportunity is all you need
l😊looks like
o oool😊l😊 😊😊ol🎉
l
looo
I wish Blake all the best for his future. He seems like a good kid and he seems like he’s on the right track mentally. Looking up to role models such as Spanian is definitely the right move and if he keeps that same mindset I’m sure he’ll achieve his dream of travelling real soon.
With his reach into so many different geographically different communities, and the amount of people that stop him on walks wanting a photo & to say hello, it seems like Spanian is doing a hell of a lot more for the underprivileged in society than any bloody politician is here in Australia! Keep it up Spanian!
IKR, all the money, food and clothes he gives people, he really, really does a lot for the underprivileged??????
He inspires them to be better in life. He also did pay for an Aboriginal fella's nephew's funeral - as seen in his last video. So yeah, I guess he DOES do a lot for them, smartass!! :D
@@bob-g3e3x you don't have to give people things to help them, sometimes bringing awareness to a situation is enough.
Who is expecting him to do that though? You probably never done that in life ya manyak what his doing is showcasing what people go through , then hopefully one day people will wake up.. @user-wu1dv6jk5s
@@pcgeglobal656 shut up lol
That last guy, Blake, seriously Spanian you need to take that guy with you on your travels to the world's ghettos.
He had such a great humble vibe, and you can see the guy has potential, speaks well, young enthusiastic, he would make a great partner for the journey
Agreed
You call this place " a ghetto"???? Get real,looks good to me.
youtube hates short people
@@mjh5437 you so hard bro.... 🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡😂
@@mjh5437move in there then bro
Enjoyed having Blake showing his local area. Makes a big difference to your videos giving the local people a chance and platform to tell their story.
@35:05 you can see how much you’ve impacted that young lads life. When he talks about where he’s from he looks really angry and frustrated. As soon as you asked him about himself and he mentioned you watch his eyes light up and his mood change I wish him the best
Right! That was so heart-warming. I hope he goes far, seems like a nice dude with a good attitude. He was dealt a shit hand as a kid, but he's trying to make the most of his life.
These vidoes are amazingally produced and gives insight into the rough lives of people who grew up living rough. Thanks Spanian
You are absolutely right about the people. I grew up rough and only want the best for them. Don't agree about the production though... the titles seem disingenuous. The Swedish episode was worse with zero interactions or factual information related to "dangerous hood". The only thing "dangerous" is his ability to mislead to make money thru clickbait.'
you know nothing, my friend died there its very dangerous @@pithius2191
yeah i agree thats true but thats what youtubers do to get clicks and apart from that they are well produced and i think his main goal is to just see what its abt and educate us on it
@@pithius2191
This shows nothing to be honest.
Dude needs to go at night in a car. But again he too famous to find or put himself into anything real.
Google maps can show you more.
Charliebo313
He shows real night shit, from the states watch them. Unbelievable.
These vids of spainian are making Australia look like the biggest pussies in the world.
Hey Blake, if you get to read this ….. I hope you can see your worth, there’s something about you that comes across differently to many other young guys in your situation.
If you can get yourself an apprenticeship or something, I have no doubt you’ll go far in life.
You’ve got this young man.
Blake seems like such a nice genuine guy iv never wished someone to be in a more better situation then that lad, honest you should go meet him again. thanks for the content mate love every video.
I grew up in Warrawong, my mum grew up in Warrawong and my dad grew up in Berkeley.
Im so grateful to all the amazing teachers and youth workers in these areas - I can't imagine a tougher gig - but fuck - one person believing in you can make a world difference.
Glad I got out.
aww yesss warrawong high was cool, when i went there then i went to port Kembela senior college; Old warrawong high; we used to call it a prison school haha.. as we wore all green.. i was there since 2000-2003
A lot of us look upto you brother. You give us hope that no matter where we come from we can succeed in life. Keep grinding bra ❤️
Keep going, never ever give up.
Spanians content has honestly tripled in value over the last year. This UA-cam series is easily in my top 5 of all time
That last guy Blake at the end seems like a genuine guy I really hope he has success in his life.
We all are wishing you the very best Blake. Your brave honesty and good heart has really touched us all🙏 thank you Span for giving a safe space for the young boys to speak up and for showing an unspoken side of Australia and the world ❤️
It’s like he is providing therapy for people who may not be seen or heard by society. It’s beautiful 💗
I watched my first video of yours just a week ago, and I’m now watching you walk through streets and past houses I smoked ice in about 12 years ago. I’m glad it’s all a thing of the past. Love your content and effort bro, all the best 💚
You have a gift, making people smile. 👍🏼
Just discovered your channel, wife and I are binge watching.
Thanks heap's
For reference, Wollongong was a successful steel mill back in the day, and also a cultural center for young creatives. AC/DC and lots of other groups made their name at pubs and venues in the Gong before heading abroad. Eventually the steel mill dried up and everyone was left without income, so it became a drug hotspot and long-term result is what you see today.
well actually if you go back a little further, adam and eve were chilling when a snake approached eve and convinced her to take a bite into an apple, which long-term has resulted in what you see today.
Yes they closed down the mill and the govt didnt think of opening up industry to keep the youth occupied
I had literally no idea that's incredible
the age old story of an industrial plant of some kind shutting down and the place turns to shit, crazy to see how it's so common tbh
Great info, didn’t know any of that 👍
Good on ya Spanian, Thank you for taking us into the hood from our lounges and living rooms, we really appreciate it! we get to see the real side of how people both good and bad are living in these lower income areas.... hectic, mad, haha!
I love how you're bringing a different point of view to people who might not otherwise see it, because they look up to you. You're a good man.
Came to read the comments regarding Blake , what an inspiring individual. He deserves the world. Would love an update video on the lad
Living in Wollongong but having grown up around Nowra, you need to get down there lol. East Nowra in particular.
2541 Nowra boys
Fr East nowra is the getho no jokes
My mum's family grew up in Berkeley in the 50's-60's and back then it was a brand new suburb for people working at the Steelworks, one of those prosperous and safe "no-one locked their doors" kinda neighbourhoods. Then over time a lot of the Steelworks jobs dried up and places like Berkeley and Warrawong suffered, crime went up and the people who could afford to left.
Hey Spanny, the blokes in prison who said they were from the Gong probably meant the surrounding areas. The Illawarra is a large place with plenty of low socio-economic suburbs, Wollongong being the central hub. Everyone from Illa just says they're from the Gong which probably massively inflates the perceived numbers.
U can call him Spanios or Spanners mate. Be careful running ya mouth calling my man “Spanny”…. Because he would crack ya jaw if he heard you say that because Spanny is a slang term for a gay guy in some areas mate….
Lotta young fella’s tryna get a name for themselves so be verryyyyy careful running ya mouth pal….don’t make me get the young fellas n that.
Lotta people got knocked for less …. If ya know ya know….
@@mendaciousreality8459 you're not hard cuz, not sure why you're tryna be someone you're not. put the phone down instead of defending someone you've never shaken hands with.
Yeah, thats true, the Illawarra area is probably around 400,000 which is not "small"
All respect to you Spanian, not just blaming the world, taking ownerships "I chose".... Blatant honesty!! God bless!
I'm living on this channel... every couple of days you are pumping these great videos out!!!
Brother U can see that it's not the most natural thing for you to interact with people showing love but it's so humbling and an absolutely amazing to see you do so
Never thought I'd actually be interested in watching these sorts of videos, but I'm here every hood vid, such well put together and educational about the types of areas too. Surely come down Victoria way eventually.
Goes too show mate there's layers too things not always what people think or expect...rap music being a prime example...cheers
So true. Gardening & a bit of green does wonders for peoples outlook in life. Thanks for showing us these places.
Interesting watch. Please note that this is such a small snapshot of what Wollongong is. It's a beautiful area and the drugs and crime are confined to small areas. 99% of people here aren't living this life and don't see it while that go about their day. But it definitely exists
You know that’s why it’s called into the hood yeah?
It's the same in every city/town in this country
then add dapto shellharbour oakflats, warilla the list goes on Its all around the Gong bro
I grew up in Warrawong in the fifties.Housing Commission.Never met anyone who went to gaol.Back in those days a lot of the tenants had jobs.I never met anyone who did drugs either.Wollongong is not a small town.However social problems have worsened every where in Australia.
Ummm what part of Wollongong are you living in? Fairyland?
The best thing you can give a young person is your time! Keep inspiring the next generations Spanian!
Young matey in the tommy shirt. Stay strong brother, most people would never have kept going. Les go baby easy work
Absolutely loved grew up 2528 and lived in Warrawong has to be one of the truest videos I have seen on the areas full respect Spanian keep it up bro 💪👊
Approaching 500k subs, goes to show consistency is key! Absolutely killing the UA-cam game.
Full organic subs to
@@asvp770 💯
Keep doing it right, keep growing
Thanks 🤜🤛 😉👍
I've been watching every episode and l really do admire your strength with the change you have made with your life. I'm 53 and l have a younger brother who is 41 and in and out if you what l mean, ive lost count of his holidays. Long story short l want the best for him and I'll make sure that he subscribes to your channel once he gets out. You are such a positive example of what we all can do in life, CHANGE! Cheers Tracey xo
Exactly Tracey kids don’t get out like we used to and they turn to influence via the internet and this guy is creating great content even the young lad Wayne said he wants to be like spanian and see the world
What else apart from getting lucky with youtube has he done positively in his life ? nothing therefore he cant teach anyone anything he doesn't know, he is 1 in a million that jagged a following he has never worked a day in his life which in reality for most crims who want to " change there life " he cant teach them anything seriously
@@Palmwhat spot on mate
@@Palmwhat seriously, are you joking, your comment is so negative. Why watch his content if you don't like it or you don't see the huge change that he has made in his life. I guess that you have no idea about him. It's people like you who contribute to people like him not even trying to change their lives around. Who cares wether he is out there digging holes for a job or doing what is doing now, he is making a difference in many many young people's lives because he has been there and done it and now he is showing everyone that it is possible to turn your life around. There's so much more that l could say but I'm guessing from your comment that you already have your mind set. Hopefully one day you'll have to deal with someone close to you that has gone through so much and who knows maybe then you'll look at things differently, cheers Tracey
@@traceykitchin9722 ive watched him since day 1 i am not hating just a realest good on him for people looking upto him its good but its not realistic for alot of them wake up to yourself
Probably my favourite Into The Hood. Low-key and informative.
I love every episode including the rowdy ones but these episodes are exceptional.
I'm uk based and been entertaining the idea of moving to aus, I grew up similar to Spano. These episodes are sunnier versions of my home.
Wow it hasn’t changed, as a kid we used to go to llawong flats to visit a family friend, being young you were told not to go to far away this was 40 years ago and still true . This show of yours
Spainan has not only made people aware of situations but made it real for your viewers to understand where it’s at. LIFE
Well done Brother
Good content Spanian don’t ever stop coz the world needs you!
bro it was nuts to walk out my door and see you. much love brother
I wish the young man who showed you around and the young man near the end a bright future ahead. I hope they both get the chance to make something of themselves and create a happier and healthier life for themselves. 🙏
Wollongong is pretty interesting cause it has the old industries like the steel works and coal mines with the working class aussies then it also has all the uni students, like polar opposites.
So interesting LMAO
Thank you for the video bro! Keep up the good work!
That young fella at the end needs a hug and someone to tell him it’s ok you be fine! It’s a shame no one will.
The priest will 😂
Well said. I felt for the young guy and you can just tell he's a really good kid who just needs someone who's see's that good and will take him under their wing and provide him that chance or opportunity to make something of his life... I really hope he finds that ..
I worked with Blake in 2020, he's a good young fella. Got a good head on his shoulders and takes care of people he cares about.
@@OgglyGoogly Cringe
@@UndyingHatred_ The priests will take him in under their cloaks
Every time i watch one of these into the hoods it just brings me back to my upbringing in St Clair, Erskine Park. The 90's seem so far away now but you have a way of bringing back those memories. Much love Spanian.
Those areas are middle class suburbia
@@Honorablepitbull Are you saying therefore these videos aren’t supposed to remind me of my childhood?
We were on the poorer end of those who lived in Erskine park, which is right next door to Mt Druitt. I would say our street life was very comparable to that of these areas. We often crossed over into St Mary’s, Colyton, Penrith, the druitt etc.
Same same.
@@111222442 na bro didn't mean that and I'm from Plumpton myself which is also a middle class suburb like Erskine Park.
Myself was also in a heavily mortgaged household where not much was left over and lead to family violence arguing over money.
It's just the term "Mt Druitt" that gets thrown around so loosely by those who watch a video or two but have no idea that it's actually just some suburbs within the Luxford Rd ring that have public housing. But it's just a normal area if you do your thing, go to work and enjoy.
Thanks for coming down the gong spanian! Shame you didn’t get to check out 2528 that is warilla/barrack heights gets very ordinary out there let me tell ya, you can’t be everywhere at once tho mate. Shame I didn’t bump into you but thanks for being an inspiration for the younger gen heading down the wrong path and they really look up to you and see that if they want a future they don’t have to be a sheep they can be a shepherd if they choose. Keep up the content bro
I’d be really interested if you could do a Canberra hood. We have a few places here that are pretty rough and have some decent history! People think Canberra is all fancy but it definitely has its rough parts too!
Keep doing the work you’re doing, I love seeing each upload of this series, better than anything mainstream media covers!
The mean streets of Kambah
Just a suggestion bro which I think would make your videos even better. If you can get one of those wireless mics to put on the people you’re walking around with, sometimes they’re really hard to hear when they’re not close to the camera and the background music offend drowns them out. Other than that. Keep crushing it
37:55 "to be honest, it looks a bit nicer here" *glass shatters* 🤣
Would love for you to go back & have a chat to some of the lads in the youth housing. To hear their stories etc. I reckon they'd learn a lot from you and what you've been through. You could make a huge impact in that way. I doubt many of them have positive role models. Keep up the great work 🤘
Cmon yous have to understand he doesnt want to work "its not him " which is going to be a reality for most the kids he has to reach out to he got lucky with youtube he wouldn't know the first thing about hard work
@@Palmwhatsounds like your upset he’s living a better life
@@TeekayPlayz not at all i love him watch him every time, but people need to get real he cant teach much about real life which most people have to live i am just saying get real about him talking to youth
He can certainly tell them where taking hammer and committing crimes will take them that's for sure.. @@Palmwhat
I think that’s what the show is about everyone he has on the show they are talking about who they are and how they became to be here for him to go and talk to everyone that’s not possible everyone has a story sounds like he has to vet these people first because you don’t wanna have someone on your channel then they come and sue you for something
Mad video Spanian. And blake if you see this, keep pushing on doing what you're doing. You have a good strong mind and you can go anywhere brother.
I am a gong girl through and through grew up in Dapto, Bellambi and Berkeley. Like any area some good some bad but things have calmed down since the 80s, 90s. Berkeley is great now it has cleaned up since then.
I'm from woll9ng9ng but moved away in 1997, those erea's were bad back in the 90s,
To be a true Gong girl you need to have slept with your dad, had a baby to your uncle and at least have 3 kids and 2 babie dadies and a ceno check
that was time to see Berkeley in it's prime lol
going down the pub for a couple of beers and buying a foil from one of the boys.
good times 🤙
It's actually called Bezerkly. It's still horrible. It has more poker machines per capita than any other part of Australia. Take it from there...
Thanks
I hope after you filmed this Anthony, that you pulled this fella up and gave him a good little back story of your own and tell him that he can keep on the up and never has to look back.
This was a sick watch! Big Luv from South London.
Mad vid brother, hope that young fella at the end that grew up within the DOCS stays on a positive path 🤙🏻
Need more Spanians in these areas to set a better example for the kids growing up there.
Should go to Nowra next! Always something wild going on there every time I've gone through the area.
Loved that! Thanks so much for coming to Wollongong. I got to see the places I smoked in and bought gear from before I got clean in 2017. Really appreciate being able to see it all again for the first time in years.
Congratulations for getting clean ❤
Never thought I'd be watching vlogs yet here I am watching Spanian every day since UA-cam algorithm showed him to me. Keep up the hood work Spanian, cheers
That young fella seemed good, you should try organise to take him over seas somewhere spanian if you can or in Australia for a couple days, he said he wants to travel like you, reckon he would appreciate. Would be a great opportunity for him.
That’s a wonderful idea!
Shout to all those out there trying to better themselves and aiming for better days.
Nothing wrong with falling over, just remember to pick yourself up and keep on keeping on. We learn from our mistakes.
Some days we win, some days we lose, but at least we are still in the game...
Also, would be good if you did Nowra East...
Positive message
Funny about the blokes from Wollongong. Same as Gold Coast. I worked as a drug and alcohol counsellor at Woodford CC (Qld). The amount of dudes from Gold Coast I met there was insane (not too mention Caboolture 😅). Meet quite a few blokes who had done time in the old school jails in NSW as well, all good solid blokes, mainly old school crims. Good to hear you're on the straight and narrow now brother, stay strong and stay safe!
Lived at Gong for 3 long years and never knew we had these areas. Heard a lot, but seeing it's a different story. Thanks heap, spanian.
Through your trials and tribulations, you have demonstrated that success is achievable for everyone, regardless of their humble beginnings or challenging upbringing. Your example serves as living proof to the youth that one's environment can shape them through choice. We thank you for being an inspiration and encourage you to continue creating and documenting your journey. You are the embodiment of success, and we wish you all the best. May God bless you.
Thanks for your work mate! I didn't know Wollongong was so criminal. The story with the smashed window gave you a good content :) I would highly appreciate, if you could explore and show us the bad neighbourhoods of the Central Coast and/or Newcastle. Keep it up mate!
“It looks a bit nicer here”
As someone smashes out a window with a plank of wood 😂
That young lad seems positive. With all the negatives around him, he sees it clear and I'm glad you've inspired him to one day see the world. Doing good things bruvah.
Always a good day when Spanian uploads 👏
Spaniard, you good thing...xx, you made me laugh, moments you had in Wollongong. The dog, haha, then the sick sounding rooster..next minute, the dudes in that car.. window breaking,( some one having a bad day) lol haha, so 😂 As you said , (while I was actually thinking the same thing) you said, luckily peeps know who you are... otherwise walking in the different hood areas with a go pro, surely would be a no go. Lol.
You are very cool, love how you meet and greet all, no hesitation, no judgement.
Watching your clips over the last month, all respect & admiration for you brother, love your work.❤
Warrawong lego land is hectic, last time i was there, some bloke was throwing a red and yellow bins through house windows. Never a dull moment there.
Legit the only place i feel scared. Im born here and tell anyone i can to not ever drive down the street
A mate from Sydney moved to Warrawong a few years ago. Hes now a missing person.
@@thepontiff7505there’s good and bad, it’s hecitic then calm.
Its blowing me out much respect i know so many people that live there i lived Wollongong 39 years of life im 42 and lived housing since I was ten and there all good people mostly including you so spewing i didn't get meet ya bro much respect ✌️
That young fella at the end has a good head on his shoulders.... keep ya heap up bruz
He's not wrong when he says they mix the expensive areas with the poorer areas. It's a bit jarring to hear the statistic that Warrawong & Berkeley rank right at the top in the state for violent crimes. I grew up in Lake Heights (smack bang in between Warrawong & Berkeley) in the 80's & 90's and I never really felt as though I was living in a rough area. Hell! Even as recently as 6 or 7 years ago, I was living one street away from Legoland in Warrawong, and I used to drive through there all the time to go to the shops (plus when I used to go jogging along Northcliffe Drive, I would always pass the entrance of Legoland) and I never felt particularly threatened. Though I remember my ex never felt safe when we lived there (and she grew up in Merrylands in Western Sydney! 😂)...in hindsight, maybe I was just oblivious or maybe I was desensitised 🤷♂️ We lived across the road from a dealer and my ex hated that fact. I always saw it as a positive because I knew that his customers would never cause trouble so close to his home because it would draw unwanted attention to him. LOL!
Come to Newcastle bro! We got Adamstown, windale, part of Charlestown is housing commission too
Sense I’ve found your UA-cam I can’t stop waiting you videos I’ve got so much respect for you what you been through to turn it around the way you have what a man love watching you stuff
I grew up in Berkeley in the 70's and 80's.
Was rougher back then.
Looks pretty tame now.
How can u tell from a couple minutes on a screen
Mad Episode !! All the best in your future endeavours Blake ! To go through what he has and is still hopeful and trying too better himself!! Legend. Cheers @spanian 🇦🇺💯
Glad you brought up the youth housing… I’m 37 now was in crisis youth refuge at 16 it saved my life, the youth workers were amazing…
If you research who founded it you’d see that historically Wollongong is a dark place, but lots of hope
Agree.
Thank you for this type of content Spanian. I would love to see the hoods of NZ if you can get a contact. Thank you again.
I just found your channel today. Subscribed and have been bingewatching all your content. So awesome what you are doing.
Good to see those kids at the end going fishing instead of getting into crime.
Bruv, your sound tracks when you've cruising the hoods are top shelf. Keep on striding bruv. Top geezer yeah?
Australia is one of those places that looks nice but like anywhere else it's got it's trenches that are no strangers to gangs, violence, crime, drugs, poverty. I don't debate who's hoods are tougher because at the end of the day we all share similar struggles. Big respect to anyone in the struggle trying to stay on a righteous path and I'm not even religious. But hey if that's what works for you cool. Whatever you gotta do to stay on a positive path because I know what it's like to get sucked in by the streets stuck in the bando bagging up and getting addicted to drugs myself, in and out of jail, stuck in public housing, even homeless at times. Fuck all that shit. I know I could say a bunch of cliche keep your head up type bullshit but that ain't gonna help anyone and neither is hope but wherever you are, Jesus Christ lol I can't do this cringey inspirational bullshit. But yo I really want through some shit, my wife died, I was alone, I lost everything. Somehow managed to pull through and at least get off the dope so it is possible to at least bounce back from addiction and start to rebuild little by little. That's the best I can do lol. Hope you all have a blessed day.
Jesus Christ is Lord man and set me free - from the hood of east Nowra NSW - mentioned in this video 😂 God bless..! And he can set anyone free even gang bangers and drug addicts, that's his specialty, call on JESUS all those going through despair, don't end your life my friends, GOD has a plan for you. Satan couldn't destroy you, or this evil world praise God there's a place in heaven for those who come to Christ. Peace.
@@trustjesus1250🥱🥱🥱🥱🥱🥱🥱 but none will repent so you just wasted all time with dribble. None of them will see heaven until then. These are to degenerate to do so. They are shyat outta luck 😉😂😂😂😂😂 learn before you preach and don't add smiley faces when trying to be serious. That shows me you don't even believe what you say. They are doing Satan's work clown
That's right about Australia, and the rest of the world, but Only Jesus Christ can save us from our wretched sinful selves, and He ain't religious, He's the Son of The Most High God. Peace 🕊️
Sounds cliches cracky
Fuck of that ant ruff mate go to Uk
Spreading the love to people who need to see you mate. Keep it up .
Also bellami is full of housing commision now and nearby there used to be a big slum area and some of the humpties are still there.
Bellzas always been as houseo as it is now was much worse in the drive through days, seems to go through cycles bad few years later not as bad then bad again 😂
@@b4ked_one2518two for thirt at the drive through!!
@@b4ked_one2518 drive thru says were good fun lol had me bike nicked multiple times from rothery rd
@@thepontiff7505 ah shit no good man but i think everyone would of had sonething stolen back then 🤣 definitely miss those days staithes mews is a lot different now after they knocked heaps of houses down and put that big bit of grass in the middle, so many dodgy alley ways around bellza back then too that got blocked off
Bellza has cleaned up a lot now no where near as bad as the 90s
Great upload! Grew up in Koonawarra & Berkeley . Spent time in the youth refuge and treehouse. I forgot about those years until I watched this
'When you're a kid, you don't know any better'. Says a lot to how they are raised.
Spanian is a full blown juggernaut. It’s impressive. Congrats lad. Keep backing it up.
I grew up in koonawarra ,then balgownie as a teen,then warrawong,mangerton,then moved up the north coast housing in Grafton,mangerton and warrawong were hoods back in the 90s,looks like not much has changed
Grew up in bellambi houso and spent a lot of time in Berkeley and gong houso. This brings back a lot of memories
The young guy you chatted to when the window broke - he seems so lovely. I really wish him well and hope he goes on to do well in life.
Doing an awesome job spanian and crew. I enjoy every episode. I think you truly are making an impact on the youth mate. Just to hear how many look up to you and that is inspiring them to try to get better is epic. Thanks for Keeping it real bro.
Mangerton is 2 minute's away from my unit complex and unfortunately i have an open garage and the amount of people that have tried to steal my motorbikes is crazy i have videos of people with blow torches coming in trying to steal them and everything.
Within 1 year i had about 20 attempts of stealing my dirt bikes. At the end they kept ripping my cameras out i gave up and sold my bikes.
I Recently bought a new registered dirt bike and unfortunately it didn't last long Within 3 months it was stolen.
Im going to get proper camera's drilled in to the wall because its just out of control now.
Only one time i caught 2 junkies in the garage in the day time i chased them all the way to the methadone clinic and one pulled out a blade so a backed off and left it at that.
Should of gone down to bellambi way worse then Berkeley in my opinion. 😂
As per usual love your content and was super happy to see you do a video in my area! ❤
Bro, spewin I missed ya.
This is where I've been in
Dapto for years.
Bringing back some memories of Dandy and now the gong.
Love ya work🙌
Next, head to Dapto and meet up with Darren and Damo.
Could of met Cecil a few years back may he RIP he was a good bloke
@@Dapto-OGGRIP Cecil 🙏🏼
Yea, they just sit on their ciggies all day.
Old mates a power walker 😅 giving Spanish his cardio
i was living in old Lego from 2000 to 2003, gosh it brings back memories watching it!
omg it had cleared up a little but i remember we choose the colour of the fences, it was not much to choose from... i was living at old Griffen street. i still remember the guys was playing cricket on the road outside of our place; the rock got thrown through our window, car got bomb once and our letter box haha.. as my mother would not shut her mouth- those fun times i tell ya!!
You should come to New Zealand and meet up with some hoods here
Hawke’s Bay would be wild
Otara
otara would be dope asf g@@Tems033
Get a guided tour by the Mongrel Mob 😂😂😂
Aranui, Linwood, Shirley and Mairehau in Christchurch. Pop by Bobby Wayne's chicken he has some stories hahaha
Shout out to Blake wanting to make a change irrespective of his tough circumstances. This is the best thing about Spanian he inspires these young ones to change.