Cherbourg’s Story Comes Home: Tess Merlin’s ‘Red Dirt Blue Lights’ in South Burnett

The South Burnett is a region rich with history, vibrant communities, and compelling stories. It’s not often that a work of fiction captures the essence of our local past with such authenticity and heart, making it a must-read for residents and those interested in the social fabric of our area. This July, a significant new novella, Red Dirt Blue Lights, is set to make a meaningful return to the very community that inspired its pages, offering our South Burnett community a unique opportunity to connect with a powerful local narrative.

Discover Cherbourg’s Past: A Novella Set in 1970s South Burnett

Written by former Queensland Police Service officer Tess Merlin, Red Dirt Blue Lights transports readers back to Cherbourg in the 1970s. This historical fiction piece is more than just a story; it’s a window into a pivotal era for the community, shedding light on the challenges and resilience of its people.

The novella weaves together the lives of two central characters: Jemma, a young Aboriginal woman living in Cherbourg, navigating the complexities of family and personal relationships, and Tess, a newly arrived police officer who grapples with understanding the community’s struggles against decades of governmental neglect and systemic oppression.

Through their interwoven perspectives, the book explores profound themes of identity, belonging, intergenerational trauma, and the enduring human spirit. It’s a narrative that promises to resonate deeply, offering insights into historical injustices while also celebrating the strength and cultural richness of Cherbourg.

Local Roots: Tess Merlin, Eric Law OAM, and the Cherbourg Connection

What makes Red Dirt Blue Lights particularly poignant for our South Burnett readers is its deeply embedded local connection. Tess Merlin herself served as a police officer in Queensland during the 1970s, including a period right here in the South Burnett. Her experiences during this time directly informed the book, as she immersed herself in learning about the history and people of Cherbourg.

The inspiration for this compelling novella truly took root during a visit to the Cherbourg Ration Shed Museum. It was there that Ms. Merlin met esteemed Wakka Wakka elder Eric Law OAM.

Uncle Eric’s invaluable guidance on Indigenous culture and the history of Cherbourg was instrumental in the book’s development, ensuring its authenticity and respectful portrayal. His support for the finished work speaks volumes about its integrity.

Adding another layer of local artistry, the novella’s striking cover artwork was designed by Uncle Eric’s daughter, Niketa Law. This collaboration further solidifies the book’s profound connection to the Cherbourg community and its cultural heritage, making it a truly local creation.

Meet the Author: Tess Merlin, a Voice from Queensland’s Past

Tess Merlin is an accomplished author, with Red Dirt Blue Lights being her second published novel.

Her debut work, RANK (2023), drew directly from her personal experiences as one of the early policewomen in the Queensland Police Force, bravely detailing the challenges and biases she faced in a predominantly male environment.

Ms. Merlin’s commitment to storytelling extends beyond the pages of her books. She is known for her dedication to bringing meaningful narratives to readers, often focusing on difficult but essential topics. She regularly participates in author panels and conducts workshops, sharing her passion for the English language and the power of narrative. Her work with Red Dirt Blue Lights is a testament to her desire to highlight important historical periods and foster greater understanding.

Cherbourg Book Launch: A Special NAIDOC Week Event in the South Burnett

While Red Dirt Blue Lights had its initial launch in Brisbane, Tess Merlin always harbored a strong desire to bring the book “home” to the community that inspired it. That wish becomes a reality on Monday, 8 July, at the Cherbourg Ration Shed Museum, starting at 11 am. This special re-launch event coincides with Cherbourg’s community NAIDOC Week celebrations at ANZAC Memorial Park, which commence at 10 am, making it a perfect opportunity for community engagement.

Both Tess Merlin and Uncle Eric Law OAM will be in attendance at the launch, offering a unique chance for readers to meet them, ask questions, and gain deeper insights into the book’s creation and its historical context.

Attendees will have the opportunity to purchase copies of Red Dirt Blue Lights directly at the event. For those unable to attend, the Ration Shed Museum will permanently stock the book in its Rocko Langton Gallery store, ensuring its continued availability within the community.

Additionally, our local Goomeri’s Wimberley and Co bookstore also proudly stocks the novella, making it accessible right here in the South Burnett.

Why ‘Red Dirt Blue Lights’ Matters for the South Burnett Community

For the South Burnett community, Red Dirt Blue Lights represents more than just a new book. It’s a narrative that enriches our understanding of local history, particularly the often-untold stories of Cherbourg. By exploring the past through the eyes of its characters, the novella encourages empathy and fosters a deeper appreciation for the complex journey of our Indigenous communities.

Furthermore, the book directly supports the Cherbourg Ration Shed Museum, with a percentage of all sales contributing to this vital institution that preserves and shares the history and culture of the Cherbourg community. Engaging with this book is a tangible way to support local heritage and promote cultural understanding within our region.

We encourage everyone in the South Burnett to embrace this opportunity to read a locally inspired story, support local institutions, and participate in an important community event during NAIDOC Week.