An engaging author talk exploring a riveting historical novel about Australia's first Greek convict.
Saturday 5 June 2027
2:00pm - 3:00pm
126 Margaret St, Toowoomba City QLD 4350, Australia
Dive into the fascinating world of Shelley Dark's latest book, "Son of Hydra," a historical novel based on the true story of Ghikas Voulgaris, a privileged Greek shipping heir turned Australia's first Greek convict. This event offers a unique opportunity to hear Shelley share the incredible journey behind her award-winning novel.
Expect an engaging talk filled with stories of love, loss, identity, and resilience, as Shelley recounts the remarkable path from a family mystery to chasing a 19th-century Greek pirate across the world.
Whether you've read the book or not, this session promises to captivate and inspire, perfect for parents looking to enrich their family's cultural experiences.
The author talk will take place on Friday, 5 June 2026, from 14:00 to 15:00 at The Lighthouse in Toowoomba. Shelley will discuss both "Son of Hydra" and her earlier book, "Hydra in Winter."
Copies of both books will be available for purchase at the event and beforehand at The Book Tree bookstore located at 456 Ruthven Street, Toowoomba.
This event is suitable for adults and older children interested in history, storytelling, and cultural heritage.
The event is hosted at The Lighthouse, located at 126 Margaret Street, Toowoomba City, QLD 4350. The venue is centrally located and accessible by public transport and car, with parking options nearby.
Toowoomba is a welcoming regional city with plenty of amenities, making it an easy and enjoyable destination for families.
No prior reading of the book is required to enjoy the talk, making it accessible for newcomers.
The event runs for one hour and is a seated talk, so comfortable seating is provided.
Attendees are encouraged to arrive a little early to secure their seats and browse the available books.
Tickets can be booked in advance, and details are available on the event website. Pricing information is not specified, so attendees should check the booking page for any costs.
Purchasing books at the event is optional but encouraged for those interested in diving deeper into the story.
This is a wonderful chance to support local authors and enjoy a culturally rich experience with your family.
