David Dufty Knihy

Set against the backdrop of World War II, this biography explores the remarkable life of Violet McKenzie, known as 'Mrs Mac,' who was a trailblazer in radio and electrical engineering in Australia. In 1944, she trained young women in Morse code, anticipating their vital role in the war effort. Her efforts led to the establishment of the Women's Royal Australian Naval Service (WRANS). Adored by her students and respected by the military, McKenzie’s legacy as a champion for women and a pioneer in technology is vividly recounted by David Dufty.

The narrative delves into the gripping two-year pursuit of the notorious Kelly Gang, revealing the challenges faced by poorly trained police officers unfamiliar with the rugged Australian terrain. By focusing on the law's perspective, it seeks to clarify the enduring legend of Ned Kelly, exploring questions about his literacy, the role of law-abiding citizens, and the true hero behind his capture. This account not only examines the infamous outlaw's legacy but also sheds light on the complexities of the manhunt and the historical context surrounding it.

This book explores effective strategies for engaging with popular science publications and websites. It offers insights into the importance of communicating scientific ideas to a broader audience, emphasizing the need for clarity and accessibility in writing. The author provides practical tips on building relationships with editors, understanding publication trends, and utilizing social media to enhance outreach efforts. With a focus on fostering public interest in science, it serves as a valuable resource for researchers and science communicators alike.

A groundbreaking work of Australian military history, The Code-Breakers of Central Bureautells the story of the country's significant code-breaking and signals-intelligence achievements during the Second World War. It reveals how Australians built a large and sophisticated intelligence network from scratch, how Australian code-breakers cracked Japanese army and air force codes, and how the code-breakers played a vital role in the battles of Midway, Milne Bay, the Coral Sea, Hollandia, and Leyte. The book also reveals Australian involvement in the shooting down of Admiral Yamamoto near Bougainville in 1943, and how on 14 August 1945, following Japan's offer of surrender, an Australian intelligence officer established the Allies' first direct radio contact with Japan since the war had begun. This is a rich historical account of a secret and little-understood side of the war, interwoven with lively personalities and personal stories. It is the story of Australia's version of Bletchley Park, of talented and dedicated individuals who significantly influenced the course of the Pacific War.