Mission Down Under

Famous, highly decorated aviator and war hero – Sir Basil Embry – decided to live out his dream in retirement, carving out the family fortunes in heavily timbered bush in Western Australia. Challenges and hardship were already in his DNA and seizing opportunities had always been his philosophy in life – whether leading his airborne squadron on flak ridden raids, or diving into a manure heap to escape from his German captors.

Later in life he became politically active, trying to improve the lot of fellow farmers, as the wool and meat trade descended into the doldrums. His daughter-in-law Joan writes of the inevitable challenges and vagaries of establishing two sheep properties over the years in Western Australia, with basic living in sheds and shacks.

Financial and living hardships did not dent Joan’s continuing enthusiasm for the way of life she found herself living. The iconic scent of the Australian bush; the depth and breadth of colour to the horizon both in the day and night and the scent and feel of the wool as the fleece comes off the sheep in the shearing shed, remain with her to this day.

A light-hearted book about rural Australia in the 60’s and 70’s, and a family’s determination to create a better life for themselves. A book with humour and emotion which makes a great read.