Peter Whitehead celebratory book launch

One of Hampden's oldest residents, 98 year old Peter Whitehead who, along with acclaimed novelist Tony Park, has written his incredible life story. BWANA, THERE'S A BODY IN THE BATH begins with his birth in 1923 in Shanghai, moves to England where - following the capture of his father by the Japanese, the young Peter decided, at 13, to emigrate alone to Australia to save his mother from the burden of having to educate him. 

The child migrant had a tough start in Oz but soon developed a love of training young horses before WW2 broke out and he joined up. After breaking in horses for the army he became a gunner on a Liberator bomber. After the war, he set his sights on Africa where he lived a series of real life Boy's Own adventures for many years; from the excitement of plane crashes and charging elephants to rogue lions, a bid to capture and save the last of the Arabian Oryx, and working with the 22 lions on set of iconic film BORN FREE. And yes, there really was a body in the bath.

Peter lives independently  - with a little help from his daughter Anne and his close friends - and he bakes top-class gingernut biscuits and enjoys recounting some of his extraordinary adventures. 

A small local group are excited to be organising a celebratory book launch on Wednesday 24 August at the Hampden library/hall between 2pm-3.30pm. There will be a live Zoom video call with Tony Park, readings, songs, games and of course book signings.  It promises to be a fun and quirky book launch with a difference!

When

Location

Hampden Community Hall/ Library, 25/27 London Street, Hampden, 9410, View Map