The legacy of one of Australia’s most versatile showmen will be honoured in a new publication titled Smoky Dawson – A Life.
The publicatiuon is a fully illustrated 368-page coffee table book that combines Smoky’s own autobiography released 36 years ago with a deeply researched new chapter: a biography that covers the period 1985 almost to the present day, modernising his legendary status and cultural imprint as a true-blue Aussie icon.
Packed with facts and anecdotes, insights and memories, the book also contains a treasure trove of more than 200 historical and contemporary photographs and illustrations – some never seen before – including artworks by Smoky’s great mate, Pro Hart.
The book also includes a collection of tributes from famous entertainers such as Jimmy Barnes, his friend and one-time duet partner, who says on the cover: “Smoky never stopped entertaining us until the day he died.”
The author of new chapter titled The Final Round-Up is Glenn T., a playwright, actor and award-winning production designer who was Smoky and Dot’s confidant and loyal companion in their later years.
Royalties will go to two charities: Bear Cottage and the Smoky Dawson Foundation. Smoky and Dot were tireless ambassadors and fundraisers for Bear Cottage, the only hospice in New South Wales for children, which is affiliated with The Children’s Hospital at Westmead and Sydney Children’s Hospital Randwick.
The Smoky Dawson Foundation provides grants, awards and scholarships to the music industry, and also assists young people generally, not just in entertainment.
Smoky Dawson – A Life is published by Imprint Inprint. Recommended retail price $49.95.
Available through quality bookstores and www.imprintinprint.com
A digital version will also be available on Kindle. – Cheryl Threadgold