Ross began his stint as an undergraduate in 1962. Obviously a very bright lad who topped every subject in his first two years. He has written 42 books including “My name Is Ross”; fiction (rather naughty) featuring the character Grafton Everest; and many notable non-fiction historical texts which established him as a leading Australian Historian.

His latest book is scary and focusses on his challenges from Melbourne High days drinking at Maisies pub in Sth Yarra until 1970 when he was a crazed alcoholic (yes, even when he was at Monash) who had his last drink. Ross still attends AA several times weekly. The book is certainly not light reading although there are many humorous stories in it. With “My Name is Ross” it delves deeper into the dark world of alcohol, drugs and mental illness from a person who knows and who has been there and who still fights daily against the urge to take that first drink again.

Quite a bit on Monash days, Notting Hill hotel, and mentions identities we knew and know today: Pete Steedman, Ken Gooding, the late Boyd Oxlade author of ‘Death in Brunswick’, the late Kevin Mackey author of ‘The Cure’ who died of a heroin overdose, the late Julian West son of author Morris West, Barry Humphries (remember that hilarious visit) and of course the amazing Kath Byer at the Nott.

cheers, Michael Headberry

Chairman: Monash Pioneers Sir John Monash Project Committee

Monash Pioneers-News Snippets by Michael Headbury.