Cirrus@Austlit

'REX ELLIS leads an amazing life, one driven by a sense of curiosity, adventure, adaptability, practicality and more than a dash of mischief. These traits are powered by a loyal heart and a strong mind and body. From his early days growing up in the South Australian bush to his continent-spanning adventures on foot, by car, camel and boat, he has relied on his ability and wit, and an infectious sense of wonder.

'His comfort in extreme environments is endearing and enduring. It is a hallmark of his adventures and key to the experiences of those lucky enough to have travelled with him over the decades. It can take courage to get out of your comfort zone, Rex says. And I see the trepidation some people feel, but then it usually comes good … I just say we make our plans then we ride on the back of nature.'

Source: Publisher's blurb.

'The 1940s and 1950s were golden years for kids growing up in the Australian countryside, before TV and computer games claimed the attention of many current generations. Rex Ellis grew up in McLaren Vale. His father and uncle had a dairy farm and operated the town milk run. The countryside was bush, vineyards and orchards and trapping rabbits, watching birds, fishing and ‘gang wars’ were everyday occupations. Rex tells it as it is style is rich in Australian language.' (Publication Summary)

'No Roads To Darwin is a journey, a very hazardous journey, which begins for one of the pursued in Italy. It is the result of an idea from mega wealthy arms dealer, Enzo Grassi, who has a great respect and love of Australia. He is embarrassed by his inherited wealth, and has a vision where the donation of a large sum of money to the Wentworth Group in Australia can kickstart a chain reaction that will help save the Earth from an environmental disaster down the track. To kill two birds with one stone he gives his spoilt daughter the project. She has to find an Outback guide to take her from near Adelaide to Darwin without travelling north on major roads and railways. They can, however, fly or take trains East or West. Grassi ropes in the sons of some of his wealthy friends, to pursue his daughter with paint guns. If shot. The project is over, and something else would have to be considered. One of the paintballers has a large gambling debt held by the Italian Mafia, and is desperate for a solution. He tells the Mafia who see the opportunity for large financial rewards. In partnership with one of the major agricultural chemical companies who see Grassi’s project as a very real threat to their welfare, the Mafia sends a contingent of their soldiers to Australia. They employ rogue elements of the Australian SAS to hunt down Gina Grassi and Jake Riley and prevent them getting to Darwin where the $5 billion would be beyond their reach.'

Source: Publisher blurb.