Soft cover. 333 pages. (2008). 232mm X 153mm. ISBN 9781921037290. RRP $32.95.

The story of Reg Sprigg – an outback legend

Oil; uranium; geology; conservation; these are all the catch-cries of our times and Reg Sprigg embodies them all. Rock Star tells the life of this intrepid , determined and oft-times irreverent pioneering Australian renowned as one of our nation’s greatest geologists.

By the age of 30 Reg had discovered the oldest fossils in the world and some of its deepest under-sea canyons. He had worked at Australia’s first two uranium mines and searched for material to construct the world’s first atomic bomb.

However, his unconventional style meant it made Reg a target for ASIO who, during the McCarthy era, suspected him of communist leanings and edged him out of the public service. Undeterred, Reg went on to help found SANTOS and discover the great Cooper Basin oil and gas fields. He set up the largest private geological consulting firm in the country and, when disillusioned by big business, he established his own exploration company, Beach Petroleum.

By the time he was 50 Reg had driven the first vehicle across the Simpson Desert and crossed the continent from north, south, east and west. He had also launched Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary, one of Australia’s first eco-tourism resorts.