Author Robyn Howarth captivated audiences at Myli libraries as she shared the extraordinary story behind her book, Faraday – A Community Rediscovered. Robyn visited several Myli libraries, stopping at Mirboo North, Foster, Warragul, Phillip Island, Pakenham, and Emerald.
Robyn was just ten years old when her world was forever changed. On Friday 6th October 1972, two masked men stormed the schoolroom at Faraday State School 797, kidnapping the young female teacher and six female students. Among them were Robyn and her two younger sisters, Denise and Sue. The crime shocked the nation and was later described by Assistant Police Commissioner Mick Miller as the “gravest situation of it’s kind in the history of the Victoria Police Force.” It became widely known as “Australia’s crime of the century.”
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- Team member Anneli with Robyn Howarth
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- Robyn speaking at Warragul Library
Her book recounts life in Faraday before the kidnapping, the impact it had on her family and community, and how they rebuilt their lives in the aftermath. Through writing, Robyn has found a sense of closure, sharing that conversations about Faraday are now happening in a more positive light.
One event attendee reflected on the talk, describing it as “very emotional, moving, and informative. What a courageous and inspirational woman and an amazing speaker.”
Faraday – A Community Rediscovered is available to borrow from Myli – My Community Library or can be purchased through Robyn’s website at robynhowarth.com.au.
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