Book Reviews...
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Robin Osborne reviews a fascinating book by a former, high-profile Northern Rivers resident, Irena Hatfield.
his wife’s role but only acted years later when further information came to light. By then, Hatfield was running Lismore Regional Art Gallery, far from Arnhem Land.
The End Bianca Nogrady Vintage - $34.95
As she notes on the back cover of her self-published book, “Following a high profile murder trial in 2000… Irena Hatfield was acquitted and completely exonerated…”
Unaware that within a few years she would face trial for the murder of her late husband, Irena Hatfield flew from Darwin to Elcho Island, off the NT’s northeast coast, on 7 September 1993. On her lap was her elderly Sydney Silky terrier, Twinkle, while in her bag was a letter of appointment to turn the derelict Galiwinku hospital into an Aboriginal arts and crafts centre showcasing the works of the local Yolgnu people. Behind her lay two older children (by a previous husband), study at the University of NSW, where she had gained a Master’s in art administration, and the sensational shooting of husband, Chris, a highly successful butcher and, she writes, a passionate lover and philanderer.
Yet her hints at notoriety add little to this fascinating, and historically valuable, account of a place where everything seemed to be done differently. “The experience was by far the most adventurous I had ever had; the Elcho Island Art Centre was built, operating and financially viable, with the artists receiving a modest income. “Likewise, significant pieces of Elcho Island art had been acquired by major State galleries throughout Australia, which would remain as a cultural legacy for the world to enjoy.” White Woman – BlackArt is available in bookshops, or as an eBook . Irena Hatfield reads from the
book at the Surry Hills, Sydney launch.
Why do we die, and can it be done well? Just two of the big topics science writer Bianca Nogrady scopes in her ‘profile’ of dying and death from the personal and clinical perspectives. Well researched, clearly written, technically precise yet brimming with compassion, and no punches pulled. Inadequate pain management and the inappropriate use of invasive technology are amongst the contentious subjects discussed with a range of experts. By increasing our understanding the book helps demystify, yet still glorify ‘the end’ that awaits us all. For the full review go to
HealthSpeak December issue.
At the time of his death, police had suspicions about Journal of the Northern Rivers General Practice Network
Dec 2013 - Jan 2014 page 32