Step into the ramping, roaring days when the Royal Mail was delivered by the legendary Cobb and Co. "Oh, they were good days-rough days, quart pot days, damper days, perhaps-but still, they were big, brave, generous days", as Henry Lawson so aptly put it. Days when the world was wide, and adventure beckoned at every turn.
Immerse yourself in an array of amusing anecdotes and unforgettable tales that embody the grit & graft of the age. Let the romance and poetic charm of those times sweep you away, breathing life into the spirit and stories of a bygone era.
Embark on a journey that begins with the infamous 'snake in the trousers' tale-a legend that never fails to stir a chuckle. Venture through the extraordinary courage of Mrs. Mary Jinks, a mother of twelve who faced every challenge with unshakable resolve, and the unfortunate demise of swagman Tom McBride. Traverse deep, untamed creeks and billabongs-formidable obstacles that tested even the most hardened traveller. Relive the tense 'Bail up!' moments experienced by Cobb and Co. coach driver Palmer, who wisely understood the perils of facing bushrangers, during the era spanning 1854 to 1924.
Through countless anecdotes, these stories illuminate the true spirit of the pioneers-their hard work, resilience, and boundless grit, shaping the fabric of early Australia. Every tale offers a glimpse into an era where determination, unyielding courage, and a hearty sense of humour flourished ... "What would you like-lamb, ram, sheep, or mutton?"
Farmer, teacher, and proud Australian, Hazel Johnson is a passionate history enthusiast devoted to preserving the story of Australia's pioneering past. Her journey into the acclaimed 'Along the tracks of Cobb and Co.' book series began with a tribute to a bygone era-when a local craftsman built a replica Cobb and Co. coach in Liston, New South Wales. Assisting with the research sparked a lifelong commitment to uncovering historical records that illuminate the lived experiences of Australia's early pioneers. With a deep respect for authenticity, Hazel has meticulously compiled historical writings from 1853 through to the mid-1900s, inviting readers to witness the grit and graft that defined the Cobb and Co. era. From floods and bushranger bail-ups to coach accidents and the relentless challenges of daily life, each volume delivers a vivid, unfiltered glimpse into the spirit that shaped a nation. Celebrated for its historical significance, the series preserves original spelling, punctuation, and grammar-ensuring accuracy and honouring the storytellers of the time. Enhanced by the evolving lens of early photography, 'Along the tracks of Cobb and Co.' is more than a collection-it's a captivating archive of unyielding courage, hard work, and resilience. Whether presenting at community events or working full-time as a historical researcher, Hazel brings Australia's past to life with clarity, warmth, and a storyteller's heart-infused with deep respect and emotional connection to those who walked the tracks before us. Her work invites readers to take a seat on Cobb's box and embark on an unforgettable journey through a legacy that still echoes across the Australian landscape.
