Growing Pineapples in the Outback

Overview

When Rebecca Lister and Tony Kelly move from Melbourne to Mount Isa to care for Rebecca's elderly mother, Diana, they have no idea what they've signed up for. The isolation, sweltering heat, and limited employment opportunities make settling into the mining town a challenge. While Rebecca deals with her mother's declining health and delves into her own past, Tony takes on a new role in native title law. However, caring for Diana—a witty, crossword-loving 92-year-old—proves to be a more enriching experience than either Tony or Rebecca thought possible. As they make deeper connections to the land and community, they find themselves flourishing in a most unexpected place. Growing Pineapples in the Outback explores the highs and lows of caring for an ageing parent, while also celebrating the rewards of a simpler life.

Author Biography

Tony Kelly is a native title lawyer and is currently CEO of First Nations Legal and Research Services in Melbourne. Rebecca Lister is an award-winning playwright, arts producer and social worker.