Voices Under a Ghost Gum: Barcaldine’s Place in Labour History Officially Launched at the Australian Workers Heritage Centre
- Jun 15
- 4 min read
The Australian Workers Heritage Centre was proud to officially launch 'Voices Under a Ghost Gum: Barcaldine's Place in Labour History' during the 2026 May Day celebrations in Barcaldine.
The launch formed part of a weekend of commemorations and celebrations at the Centre, which also marked the 21st anniversary of the "Young-Un" the living descendant of the historic Tree of Knowledge and brought together supporters, visitors and friends of the Centre from across Australia.
The book was officially launched by Stuart Traill - Assistant Secretary of the Electrical Trades Union Queensland & Northern Territory Branch, who spoke of the importance of preserving and sharing the stories that helped shape Australia's labour movement and working-class heritage.
Written by Ken Purdham and beautifully designed by Marjorie Bowes 'Voices Under a Ghost Gum: Barcaldine's Place in Labour History' explores Barcaldine's unique place in Australian labour history and the events, people and ideals that continue to resonate more than a century later. Richly illustrated and highly accessible, the publication was conceived as a lasting keepsake for visitors to the Australian Workers Heritage Centre and a celebration of the Centre's ongoing role as custodian of this important chapter of Australia's story.
The publication has already generated significant interest and is helping to spark conversations about the enduring relevance of Australia's working history, the labour movement and the pivotal role Barcaldine played in shaping the nation we know today.
Available to Buy Now
Voices Under a Ghost Gum: Barcaldine’s Place in Labour History is now available for purchase through the Australian Workers Heritage Centre's online store or on-site Retail Store.
Whether you are a visitor, union member, history enthusiast or simply someone interested in understanding why Barcaldine occupies such an important place in Australia’s story, this beautifully produced publication offers an engaging and accessible journey through the events, people and ideas that helped shape our nation.
The following reflections from author Ken Purdham provide a behind-the-scenes insight into how 'Voices Under a Ghost Gum' came to life.
Voices Under a Ghost Gum – From Little Things Big Things Grow
Sometimes the best ideas begin with a simple conversation.
When long time Australian Workers Heritage Centre volunteer Graeme Watson suggested that author Ken Purdham write a book celebrating the Centre and Barcaldine’s unique place in Australia’s labour history, the challenge was quickly accepted. The bigger question was: what kind of book should it be?
From the outset, Ken was determined that it would not be a dense historical volume filled with statistics and academic detail. Instead, he envisioned a book that was accessible, visually engaging and affordable - something visitors could enjoy reading and take home as a lasting memento of their visit to the Australian Workers Heritage Centre.
At the ETU VIC Delegates State Conference where over 400 State Delegates endorsed significant financial and related in-kind ongoing support for the Centre, ETU Queensland and Northern Territory Secretary - Peter Ong expressed his appreciation on the concept of the book being undertaken and without hesitation offered significant financial support for the development and publication of the book. Yet another example of the many decades of ongoing support from the ETU QLD & NT Branch for the Centre.
With a clear vision beginning to take shape, Ken assembled what would become an unlikely but highly effective team. Designer Marj agreed to undertake the book’s layout and design, while Graeme Watson became the project’s enthusiastic sounding board, reviewer and champion. Together, the trio would soon earn the affectionate title of “the odd couple” and their silent partner.
The project quickly evolved through countless coffee shop meetings, where ideas were tested, debated and refined. While Ken undertook the research and writing, Marj focused on transforming the material into a visually appealing publication, and Graeme provided constant encouragement, fresh perspectives and an unwavering belief in the project.
Research for the book drew upon a wide range of historical sources, archives and publications. Among those that left a lasting impression on Ken were the biography of Tommy Ryan, Julian Stewart’s work, and the writings of Albury Abbott, who famously “walked the wallaby” alongside Ryan. Through these sources, the voices of the past seemed to come alive, helping to shape the story that would eventually become 'Voices Under a Ghost Gum'.
As the manuscript grew, so too did the ambition of the publication. Marj’s eye for detail led to the inclusion of numerous historical photographs and illustrations, often requiring extensive searches to locate just the right image. From photographs of the ship Otter, which transported the imprisoned strike leaders to St Helena Island, to rare images of Brisbane’s Queen’s Wharf, countless hours were invested in ensuring the book would be as visually rich as it was informative.
The title itself emerged through collaboration. Early suggestions included Why Barky?, inspired by a recurring question visitors often ask: “Why Barcaldine?” However, as discussions unfolded and the story deepened around the folklore, symbolism and significance of the Tree of Knowledge and its living descendant, the “Young-Un”, a new title emerged. Once proposed, 'Voices Under a Ghost Gum' immediately resonated with everyone involved.
As deadlines approached, Graeme once again played a pivotal role. His planned trip to Barcaldine created a firm publication deadline, prompting a final burst of activity to complete the design, proofing and production process. With support from the printer - Jossimo Print, and many late nights from the team, the book was finally brought to life.
The result is a publication that reflects not only the remarkable history of Barcaldine and the labour movement, but also the passion, dedication and collaboration of those who wanted to share that story with others.
Today, Voices Under a Ghost Gum: Barcaldine’s Place in Labour History stands as more than a book. It is a celebration of the Australian Workers Heritage Centre, the people who built it, and the historic events that helped shape modern Australia. Already, it is sparking conversations about the importance of preserving and sharing our nation’s working history.
The Australian Workers Heritage Centre extends its sincere thanks to Ken Purdham, Marjorie Bowes, Graeme Watson, Peter Ong and all those who contributed to bringing this project to fruition.
Published and Sponsored by the
The ETU Victorian Branch, sponsor of the Australian Workers Heritage Centre, supported their historian throughout the project
