BOOROOBIN based author Gay Liddington has published her first book at the age of 74: a trauma memoir with a difference.
Her deeply personal story, ‘Will I ever be who I am?’ is a gripping insight into overcoming family violence with a distinctly Queensland setting and tone.
The book also depicts the Australian Defence Force in a positive light, which is often unusual in 2025.
Largely set in the Wide Bay town of Howard and the Central Queensland town of Mackay, the book recalls life in the 1950s and 60s: a patriarchal culture where men worked and drank beer and women tended to the children.
Gay describes how she joined the army to escape her step-father’s horrific abuse and how the ADF wrapped protective arms around her when he continued to stalk and threaten her.
Her book bravely declares that her life of secrets is over. “I no longer have traumatic nightmares since completing the book,” says Gay.
“However, while one can overcome trauma, it remains part of who you are.
“We are the sum of our history but it’s what we build from that history that shapes the person you become.”
The book is available for sale at www.edwinashaw.com, local book launches will be at Glasshouse RSL, June 28 and Rosetta Books, Maleny July 11.
