The enduring legacy of Australian bush ballads continues to captivate audiences worldwide, offering a unique glimpse into the heart of Australia's rural history and culture. This timeless bush poetry, passed down through generations, paints vivid pictures of the Australian outback, its rugged landscapes, and the iconic figures that have shaped the nation's story.
In her new release, The Colt from Old Regret, award-winning children's author Dianne Wolfer has created an essential companion to the iconic Australian poem, 'The Man from Snowy River' by Banjo Paterson. Writing from the perspective of the colt that gets away, Dianne honours Banjo's Australian classic and builds on it, creating a poetic response, which is mirrored in Erica Wagner's exquisite mixed media collage illustrations. Both text and illustration are artistic remixes in a way that together open up our history, our high country and our hearts. The book captures, with sensitivity and depth of emotion, the wild beauty of the Snowy Mountains, as well as the resilience of mountain people. This is an immersive reading experience.
"The NLA publishers have done readers a service in setting the parallel works side by side, with the magnificence of the Snowy Mountains ever present in Erica Wagner's superb artwork" - Living Arts Canberra
Bush ballads, often characterised by their poetic narratives and evocative storytelling, emerged in the 19th century as a way for early settlers and workers to document their experiences, challenges, and triumphs. Their themes reflect the beauty, hardship and resilience of life in the bush, offering a deeply personal connection to the country's vast interior. They remain an integral part of Australia's identity, and have contributed to a rich cultural heritage that is celebrated through festivals, performances and events across the country.
Dianne will be celebrating The Colt from Old Regret as part of this year's The Man from Snowy River Festival program. Founded in 1963, the festival is held annually in the picturesque town of Corryong, Victoria, offering an array of storytelling sessions, performances and displays, all set against the backdrop of the stunning alpine landscape.
As the world continues to appreciate the diversity and richness of Australia's culture, events such as this provide a living testament to the enduring legacy of the Snowy Mountains and its resilient people, whose bush ballads remain an enduring symbol of the nation's rugged, untamed spirit. The Colt from Old Regret is a new classic in the making.
The Colt from Old Regret (Published by National Library of Australia Publishing, 1 April 2025) The Man from Snowy River Bush Festival (10th – 13th April 2025)
Key Facts:
The Colt from Old Regret (publised 1 April 2025) written by Dianne Wolfer and illustrated by Erica Wagner
An essential companion to the iconic Australian poem, 'The Man from Snowy River' by Banjo Paterson
Bush ballads, often characterised by their poetic narratives and evocative storytelling, emerged in the 19th century
Dianne will be celebrating The Colt from Old Regret at this weekend's The Man from Snowy River Festival program, founded in 1963
About us:
About the author
Dianne Wolfer is an award-winning author of 25 books, including the acclaimed Light series, The Dog with Seven Names and The Last Light Horse. Most recently, Dianne's book Scout and the Rescue Dogs won the Children's Book of the Year at the Western Australian Premier's Literary Awards.
About the illustrator
Erica Wagner is an artist, publisher and creative consultant to storytellers. For over three decades, Erica has edited and published many ground-breaking and award-winning books for children and young adults. Erica's first book, Hope is the Thing (2023), written by Johanna Bell, won the CBCA New Illustrator Award. The book was also shortlisted for the 2024 Wilderness Society Environment Awards for Children's Literature. Erica is a painter, drawer and collage artist.
