Charlie’s War

Age range 4+

A young Aboriginal boy's dream of shearing sheep turns into reality. Then war breaks out in Europe. Despite initially not being able to enlist, he and his two best friends eventually sign up and their lives are changed forever.

How this book came about:

Vicki Bennett worked with Des Crump, Indigenous Languages Coordinator, Queensland Memory, State Library of Queensland, while doing research and development for the documentary, Never Forget Australia.

Des told Vicki the story of his Great Uncle Charlie. After WW1, a welcome home ceremony was given to Charlie Bird and George Bennett and held at the Euraba Aboriginal settlement. This was one of the few welcome home ceremonies for Indigenous soldiers after The Great War.

Charlie's experience stuck with Vicki and she wanted to hear more. Over many conversations and emails, Des generously shared information about Charlie's life and the book Charlie's War came to life. Vicki has been the curator of this narrative from Des, Charlie's daughter and grand-daughter who warmly support this project.