Francis Birtles

by Warren Brown

This is the colourful story of FRANCIS BIRTLES, a fascinating individual who led a life of incredible adventure and exploration in Australia and throughout the world.

A narrative account of the life and times of one of Australia's most extraordinary adventurers - a man who crossed Australia more than 70 times in the early part of the 20th century - by bicycle and car.

In 1927 he achieved the greatest motoring feat of the times, driving a car from London to Melbourne. This story follows his exploits across scorching Arabic deserts, through steamy Indian jungles and mountain snowstorms.

In between these journeys he made a collection of documentaries and films of his encounters with the outback. He documented his exploration of Australia in his book, BATTLEFRONTS OF OUTBACK. He eventually travelled to the Northern Territory in search of gold and retired a wealthy man.

400 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2012

About the author

Brown makes you want to run to the kitchen and start baking!"

Reviews

[Brian · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think that this was a really good book. I enjoyed it immensely: t is well written, entertaining and informative, and most of all, easy to read. Well done Warren Brown.

I was attracted to the book because I've seen bits about Birtles all over the place, his Sundowner Bean 14 is even right here in Canberra

If you like Australian pioneer stories, this is one not to miss

[Troy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A cracking yarn about a truly amazing Aussie adventurer and character. Read it, I urge you, or you might find yourself stranded in the Naga Hills and not know what to do.

[David McLean]

A fascinating insight into a remarkable man and Australia's early history.

[Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an utterly amazing story about someone you have never heard of! Well written, well researched.