You may know Peter FitzSimons as a rugby man through and through, the proud, tenacious lock forward who travelled the world playing the game he loved. You may know him as a columnist for the Sydney Morning Herald and the Sun-Herald. Or perhaps as one of Australia's biggest-selling non-fiction authors of the past fifteen years
Whichever way you know him, Swan Hill Regional Library in partnership with Collins Booksellers Swan Hill, is honoured to welcome such an Australian icon to our country town on Saturday 1 November. Libraries Manager Camille Cullinan said the event is already generating great excitement among library members and the wider community.
"Peter FitzSimons is the author of more than 27 highly successful books, including Tobruk, Kokoda, Batavia, Eureka, Ned Kelly, Gallipoli and biographies of Douglas Mawson, Nancy Wake, Kim Beazley, Nick Farr-Jones, Les Darcy, Steve Waugh and John Eales. This time, we're especially excited to celebrate the launch of his latest book, The Courageous Life of Weary Dunlop."
Alongside his literary achievements, FitzSimons' story is equally captivating.
"Before becoming one of Australia's best-loved authors, Peter was already a household name as a rugby player, representing the Wallabies in 1989 and 1990, he also lived for several years in rural France and Italy, playing rugby for regional clubs." Ms Cullinan said.
"During that time, he also worked as a sports columnist with the Sydney Morning Herald. From sports biographies, he went on to capture the lives of war heroes, historical figures and extraordinary Australians.
"Peter FitzSimons was also named a Member of the Order of Australia for his service to literature as a biographer, sports journalist and commentator, and for his contributions to conservation, disability care, social welfare and sporting organisations," Ms Cullinan said.
This is truly an event not to be missed. Bookings are essential, so don't wait – secure your spot now by contacting Collins Booksellers Swan Hill on 5032 5385 or Book Online Now through Eventbrite. Tickets are $5.00, redeemable against a book purchase at the event, with book signing and sales available courtesy of Collins Booksellers Swan Hill. Please note all bookings are being managed by Collins Booksellers Swan Hill.
Event Details
Location: Swan Hill Library, 53 Campbell Street
Date: Saturday 1 November
Time: 1.00pm
Bookings essential
