A Lord Mayoral Reception Wednesday evening at Adelaide Town Hall united friends, family members and fans in celebrating the 90th birthday of renowned South Australian author Max Fatchen AM.
Hosted by Lord Mayor Michael Harbison, the reception recognised Mr Fatchen’s achievements and successes throughout his long and fruitful career.
Described as a ‘quintessentially South Australian’ writer, Mr. Fatchen has enjoyed a successful career as a journalist, author and poet. The prolific writer has penned 27 books for adults and children, in addition to a long list of poems that feature in more than 130 anthologies worldwide.
His foray into the world of the written word began with a job as a copy boy at The News before World War Two. After returning from service, he again worked for The News from 1946 until 1955 as feature writer and columnist, and later worked at The Advertiser between 1955 and 1984 as a feature writer, columnist and literary editor.
To this day, Max Fatchen continues to write a column for The Advertiser.
“One of the best things about life is a sense of belonging. That’s what I feel about Adelaide, about the Adelaide Plains and Gawler,” said Mr Fatchen.
“Journalism is a great adventure – to observe, to listen and to record. I have witnessed world events, but the best thing is to have found that in ordinary people there are extraordinary qualities.”
Mr Fatchen was born in Angle Vale on 3 August 1920, and still lives in the Angle Vale district as a cherished member of the community.
During his career as a writer, Max Fatchen received numerous awards including Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 1980, the 1996 Walkley Award for Most Outstanding Contribution to Journalism, the Advance Australia Award, the SA Great Award and was named patron of the Children’s Book Council SA. Max Fatchen was also made the first life member of the South Australian Writers’ Centre.
Lord Mayor Michael Harbison honoured Max Fatchen and recognised the inspiration he has given to fellow South Australians.
“Max Fatchen is an example for young people today to set goals for themselves, develop their talent and excel in their chosen fields,” said Lord Mayor. “I am proud to recognise Max’s talent and achievements during his birthday celebrations at Adelaide Town Hall tonight.”
Max Fatchen gave a word of thanks and read a short poem he wrote especially for the occasion. Also speaking at the reception was journalist Samela Harris, on behalf of The Advertiser, and Australian writer Dr Peter Goldsworthy AM. The Metropolitan Male Choir paid tribute to Max with a special performance of Happy Birthday.
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