The USQ Bookcase Writers’ Festival presents a diverse range of stimulating and engaging workshops from blogging, photobooks and freelance writing to historical fiction, publishing, pitching and more.
Workshop 1: Telling Tales of Terror
Doing justice to human tragedy
Presenter: Dr Bob East
Date: Saturday 23 July 2016
Location: R113, The Refectory, USQ Toowoomba
Time: 11.00 am – 12.00 pm
Make sure you arrive early to the workshop to ensure you get a seat!
https://www.usq.edu.au/alumni/programs/usqbookcase/usqbookcaseprogram/workshops/ws1talesofterror
SYNOPSIS
In 2011 Warren Rodwell, a former Australian soldier and English teacher from Sydney, was kidnapped by rebels from his home on the island of Mindanao, in the southern Philippines. He was held hostage for the next 15 months making him the longest held Australian captive outside of official Prisoners-of-War (POWs). Join USQ alumnus Dr Bob East for an intriguing workshop where he will discuss his most recent book 472 days Captive of the Abu Sayyaf which details Rodwell’s tale of terror. Throughout the presentation, Bob will outline the methods he used to research and write the book, including gaining permission from the Australian Federal Police. His special guest Warren Rodwell will recount his version of events, adding another layer to this compelling and complex story.
Please note: This presentation contains material that some people may find offensive. Audience discretion is recommended.
USQ alumnus Dr Bob East (Bachelor of Arts, 2005; Honours, 2006; Doctor of Philosophy, 2011) is an Australian independent researcher and author. His research specialises in insurgency and associated criminality in the southern Philippines, a region he travels to frequently. He has had three books published on the Abu Sayyaf organisation. These scholarly books are held in the libraries of many leading international universities, as well as major world libraries. Bob has also published papers and addressed national and international conferences on this niche subject. He lives on a rural property in south-east Queensland with his Philippine-born wife, Maria.
