Yasmar Boys’ Home

N 166

Abandoned at birth, George Lee’s childhood in England in the 50s was a roller coaster of extremes; at times loved and nurtured; at others, beaten and cruelly abused. Brought to Australia at the age of twelve, George escaped from the tyranny of life at home only to find that life on the streets had its own dangers. George began years of life as a state ward in both NSW and Victoria. In Victoria he was mostly treated fairly, humanely and even with compassion. In NSW, by stark contrast, George experienced inhumane, tough and often extremely brutal and abusive treatment. Fight or flight was George’s usual response to cruelty. Escaping, or going dingo was occasionally exciting and fun, but each brief taste of freedom cost him dearly. George is a good storyteller. Every experience comes to life. Happy times with good, caring people temper his painful memories of mental, physical and sexual abuse at the hands of people whose actions beggar belief. This true story elicits many strong emotions. It is compelling reading.

N 219

In 1982, sixteen year-old teenager Andrew Tregurtha pleaded guilty to the murder of the Greek Consul-General and a teacher in Sydney’s inner city. Six years later he committed suicide at Berrima Gaol. Between the hours of dark and daylight, the lonely hours when prisoners are locked in their cells, Andrew hanged himself. Illiterate until his incarceration, this is his own story.