Author Talk - Jim Haynes in Conversation

Wed 10 Dec 2025 - Wed 10 Dec 2025

6.30 pm - 7.30 pm

Location
Margaret Martin Library, Randwick
Address
Level 1, Royal Randwick Shopping Centre, Belmore Road, Randwick

Spend an evening with author and master storyteller Jim Haynes as he discusses his new release, Great Australian Odysseys: By Sea, Sky, Road and Rail. This book celebrates the pioneers and larrikins who braved the elements, broke new ground and turned isolation into inspiration.

The discussion will be facilitated by Zahid Gamieldien.

Bookings:  

The event is free. Bookings are essential online. This event will start at 6.30pm, light catering will be provided for guests to enjoy from 6.00pm. Books will be available for purchase and signing.

DISCLAIMER: Bookings below are made through Eventbrite which is an external website. Please read their privacy policy and other disclaimers for how they store and use your information. Please contact us if you experience an issue booking in.

Eventbrite Booking Link

About the Author:

Jim Haynes OAM is one of Australia's most prolific and successful authors. Before becoming a professional entertainer, song writer and verse writer in 1988, Jim taught writing, literature, history and drama in schools and universities from outback New South Wales to Britain and back again. In 2016, he was awarded the Order of Australia Medal for 'services to the performing arts as an entertainer, author, broadcaster and historian'.

About Great Australian Odysseys: By Sea, Sky, Road and Rail:

Trucks, trains, boats and planes – welcome to a treasury of unsung heroes and extraordinary journeys that have shaped Australia's history.

From the bravery of Australia's sailors to our great age of rail, the resilience of the truckers crossing the Nullarbor to the daring aviation pioneers who turned the skies into a new frontier, Great Australian Odysseys is a rich tapestry of adventure and ingenuity, with a good dose of Aussie laughs.

Journey through tales of hardy truckers braving isolation, mechanical mishaps and political battles. Navigate the high seas with our first submariners' record-breaking journeys and daring rescues of the shipwrecked and marooned. Relive the golden age of rail with evocative stories celebrating Australia's railway heritage, from Mark Twain Down Under to Ben Chifley's locomotive legacy. Soar through the skies with aviation legends such as Smithy, Bert Hinkler and Francis Birtles, whose courage and innovation transformed how we travel.

With humour, heartbreak and a deep respect for history, bestselling chronicler of Australia Jim Haynes brings to life the pioneers, larrikins and legends who define our country's unique spirit and who dared to dream big and journey across this vast continent.

About the Facilitator:

Zahid Gamieldien is an author, screenwriter, editor and writing tutor. His debut novel, All the Missing Children, was published in 2024, and his writing has also appeared in literary journals including Overland, Meanjin, Kill Your Darlings, Island Magazine and many others. His second novel will probably be released in 2026.

Accessibility

Randwick City Library is committed to making our events accessible and inclusive. If you have any access requirements, please let us know so we can support your participation. You can:

We’ll be in touch to confirm arrangements.

Terms and Conditions:

The health & safety of our community and staff is our top priority. By registering, you agree to comply with the terms and conditions listed below including the Covid-safe measures. Note: these terms and conditions are subject to change without notice.

  • Bookings are essential and spaces are limited.
  • If you are unable to attend, please cancel your tickets as soon as possible. This will enable others to participate in the event.
  • Due to the safety and enjoyment of participants, we are unable to admit latecomers to the room after the start time.
  • Please arrive from 6pm to enjoy some light catering and allow the event to run on time from 6.30pm.
  • Covid-19 Safety Terms and Conditions apply. Follow this link to find out more. Please review them prior to attending this event as these may change with short notice.
  • Your attendance at events supported by Randwick City Council may be digitally recorded through photographs and/or video recordings. Images may be used for promotional purposes on council's websites, publications, social media or by newspapers. By attending this session you agree to these terms. If you do not wish your image (or the image of your child) to be published, please notify staff before the event.

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