NEWS AND EVENTS
25th ANNIVERSARY OF THE UNVEILING OF THE COLIN THIELE SCULPTURE
Eudunda Centenary Gardens, 15 November 2020
This function, organised by a hard-working group of local volunteers, also celebrated the 100th anniversary of Colin’s birth. Lunch and afternoon tea were served and the formal program included speakers, readings and musical items. Unfortunately, due to the uncertainties of COVID, only two members of Colin’s family were able to attend.
Original plans had been for this to be part of much larger celebration (now postponed) marking 150 years since the town was established.
Places for visitors to Eudunda to see more about Colin
- Centenary Gardens, Bruce Street, featuring a sculpture of Colin made by Chris Radford
- Eudunda Family Heritage Gallery, 17/19 Bruce Street
- The Colin Thiele Drive: a self-drive plan tracing places from Colin’s childhood (details available from the gallery)
COLIN THIELE – 100th ANNIVERSARY EXHIBITION
University of South Australia, November 2020
This online exhibition was organised by the University of South Australia Library and its Special Collections team to honour Colin’s contribution to Australian literature and education. Originally planned to be a physical exhibition, it featured items from the Colin Thiele Research Collection.
100th ANNIVERSARY TRIBUTES
Arthritis South Australia, November 2020
Colin was featured over various media and thanked for being ‘a shining light on what remains a terrible and devastating condition’. He had been a vice-patron and life member of this organisation.
TRIBUTES TAKEN FROM MESSAGES TO RHONDA AFTER COLIN’S DEATH
From a colleague of Rhonda’s
As I look at the photograph of Colin printed in today’s Advertiser, I can see that despite years of sickness and pain, he retained those qualities that endeared him to us. The intelligence and sparkle is there in the eyes, the warmth and generosity of spirit shines in his face.
From a teachers college student
After my bad car accident he wisely said, ‘Keep your door open except when lost in pain.’ He knew that pain, I understand that, yet kept his whimsical humour and perception.
From an artist/illustrator
A massive loss to the people like me he has mentored and encouraged.
From a medical specialist who treated Colin
What a man! Colin has certainly been a larger than life character, not in a flashy, flamboyant manner but in an infinitely more creative, sophisticated and lasting way.
From a teachers college student
His lectures about English literature were brilliant. He was such a lively and interesting speaker I was spellbound all the time.
From a publisher
He restored my faith in human nature every time I talked to him.