Media: BOOK - paperback, 196 pages
Author: J. Anketell
Year: 1998
ISBN: 0859052435
Other: b&w photos, maps, bibliog, index
Publisher: Hesperian Press

We built no heroes, but we left no bones' - this remark, said by a colleague, sums up the meticulous planning and execution of the expeditions led by Richard John Anketell. In 'Walker in the Wilderness' the exploits of this engineer/surveyor are traced as he opened up large tracts of Australia. He is one of a band of intrepid public servants who lived and worked in inhospitable country beyond the bounds of civilization. Whether looking for water for survival or negotiating with settlers for politicians, his skills were tested and were all part of the job.

His life's work is an important part of Western Australian history and in the broader context, is part of the nation's history. The outback with its dangers, harshness and fascination, comes to life as 'Walker in the Wilderness' related the commitment and human-ness of a pioneer explorer and the working life of the men and animals under his command.

Contents:
Foreword
Metric Coversions
Abbrevations
Acknowledgements
Preface
1. Beginnings - Melbourne - Maffra
2. Surveying in Wet Places and Dry
3. Two Islands
4. Waterless Walking
5. Home Life
6. The Long Fence
7. The Long Straight
8. Lines Across the Country
9. The Peel Problem
10. Working On
Epilogue
Endnotes
Bibliography
Index