After thirty years of teaching at primary schools around the Prom Coast, Kath Gilbert was looking for a change. In 2023, she, and partner Bill Koetsveld, headed north from Fish Creek and found themselves once again in Alice Springs.
“We have volunteered at the National Road Transport Museum at least seven times. On this occasion, I was asked to research, write and help create a display for the museum’s inaugural History Makers’ award. The award was bestowed upon the six committee members of the Razorback Truck blockade which occurred in April 1979. The blockade started when drivers parked their trucks across the Hume Highway, demanding changes to an unjust and inequitable road user tax. The men were labelled anarchists, and the 10-day rebellion was deemed an act of civil insurrection by then NSW Premier, Neville Wran,” explained Kath.
However, Kath saw the protestors differently. “I was intrigued by the stories of the men and women I interviewed. There was still passion, anger, pride and a sense of unity that I believe we often link with Aussie’s going into battle – and this was a battle – against governments and large corporations.”
After completing the museum display, Kath began a deeper dive into the protest which had ramifications nationally, including here in South Gippsland. Locals Ian Latham and the late Mick Dorling shared memories with Kath, as did the late John Laws.
Kath believes this part of Australia’s history deserves to be as well-known as the Eureka Stockade, so she became determined to capture the story from those who lived it. For this reason, Kath spent over two years interviewing drivers, police officers and media representatives from Razorback Mountain and other blockade sites. She also spent months reading archived newspaper articles and government documents.
The result is Kath’s debut book Empty Roads, Empty Promises: The Forgotten Blockade of Razorback Mountain, which is available in local bookstores and in museums across Australia and New Zealand. Together, Nice Stack of Books and Kath are officially launching her nonfiction narrative on July 19 at 2.30 pm.
“Having taught in Meeniyan for over twenty years it felt right to launch the book from the supper room at the town hall,” said Kath. There will be a brief author talk and a Q&A session followed by a 1970s themed afternoon tea. The event is free, however, please RSVP via Kath’s website to help with catering. www.kathgilbert.com
