This is a book for children written by Ron Sproston and illustrated by Mem Taberner. The fantasy animal story takes its theme from the true story of the saving of the fairy penguins on Middle Island, Warrnambool from the depredations of fox activity on the island. The presence of Maremma dogs residing on the island acting as deterrents to fox activity has been highly successful in preventing the killing of the penguins by foxes. The book has been published by Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, Warrnambool and personnel from this organization oversee the Maremma program. Ron Sproston and Mem Taberner have both been involved with Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village for some years. This book is of interest as it has been produced locally and is based on the story of the Middle Island penguin protection program where Maremma dogs are used as deterrents to foxes. This is a soft cover book of 75 pages. The front cover is white with multi-coloured illustrations of animals and the back cover has white printed material superimposed on a green-coloured photograph of Middle Island. The book has several black and white sketches. middle island, maremma penguin protection program, ron sproston, mem taberner, children’s literature, warrnambool

The Loch Ard had left England in March 1878 and 90 days later on June 1st it was approaching the coast of Victoria when it wrecked off the coast near Port Campbell at what was to become known as Loch Ard Gorge. Two people survived, Eva Carmichael and Tom Pearce. While much has been recorded about the survivors, this is the first publication which looks at the other 51 people on board. This book lists where they came from, family histories and lists internet references for further information. Some of the names listed are Yates, Stuckey, Jones, Rolleston, Godby, Mitchell, Fax, Hunt and Giles.An interesting insight into an aspect of the Wreck of the Loch Ard which has been previously unknown. Written by local authors.Soft card cover with coloured aerial photograph of Loch Ard Gorge Title in brown with sub title in white. Authors name in white on brown strip at bottom of cover. The back cover has blurb written in panel imposed over photo of Loch Ard Gorge looking seaward. 160 pages.Authors Carlyn and Ron Sproston.warrnambool, loch ard, lost of the loch ard, loch ard gorge,