Observations of an Ordinary Bloke is a charming collection of short stories by Richard Lancaster, originally featured in local magazines and newspapers. This first book in a series takes readers on a light-hearted journey through everyday observations, covering an eclectic mix of topics, from famous figures like Chopper Read to musings on tattoos and women convicts. With a sharp wit and keen insight, Lancaster delivers relatable anecdotes that capture the essence of ordinary life with humour and reflection.

About the Author

Richard Lancaster was born in the United Kingdom and received his education in India and South Africa. His career began as a Tea Plantation Manager, first in Sri Lanka and later in Darjeeling, India. In 1967, he moved with his family to Australia, where he spent over a decade in management roles with Woolworths before joining Drake International. There, he led a pioneering project, Drake Management Resources.

In the early 1980s, Richard launched his own management consultancy, specializing in recruitment and training. He later expanded into celebrity and sports management, as well as television and film production. During this time, he became a regular broadcaster on ABC and contributed feature stories to major newspapers and magazines across Australia.

In 2003, Richard was awarded an Australia Day Cultural Award, earned a Life Fellowship from the Human Resource Institute of Australia, and was inducted into their Hall of Fame. Since moving to the Redcliffe Peninsula in the early 1990s, he has been an active member of the local arts community and a passionate environmental advocate. He successfully campaigned against fish farms in Moreton Bay and founded several wildlife protection initiatives, including the Mavis Filmer Award, which honors individuals and groups for their conservation efforts.

Richard has written three books of fictional short stories, an anthology of poetry, and co-authored a 21-episode radio serial, The Dugongs of MacArthur Bay. Over 21 years, he contributed more than 1,000 weekly “Culture Vulture” columns to the Redcliffe and Bayside Herald. He has also researched, written, produced, and directed three feature-length mockumentaries and continues to contribute to magazines and newspapers in South East Queensland. His passions include environmental activism, writing, and the arts.