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'The Western Australian author Hal Colebatch, born in 1945, died unexpectedly on September 9 during a stay in a Perth hospital. His personality settled early, and was not for turning. A tall, thin six-foot-sixer with a deep voice and commanding, even formidable, personality, he was not easily forgotten. But he did not use these qualities to push himself; he was at the same time reticent about explaining his deepest feelings, realising that they were increasingly at a discount. An adamantine stance on many issues limited his range of acquaintances. An aura of distance, even separation, marked him. He divulged no personal mood changes nor inner feelings to the public. He was not swayed by what others thought about him, having the courage to stick to his unfashionable guns. But in later life his views became more mainstream, as many former liberals, refugees from the counter-culture, and appalled by the shrinking focus of identity politics, came to understand the value of the traditional beliefs which Hal always adhered to.' (Introduction)
