Digital Swaggie Publishing

Gun Fights, Ghosts and Goannas

Gun Fights, Ghosts and Goannas is a travel memoir about riding an adventure motorcycle through Queensland. It follows the first time adventure travel of one man who is struggling with life, and finding the system is pushing him down. Something needs to change as he feels his mental health declining. Then a song from the past ignites a dream he once had, a dream to ride around Australia on a motorcycle.

He buys a motorcycle who he names “Emu” and together they venture into the Australian Outback. Along the way they discover historical facts long forgotten, encounter ghostly events and lose money betting on chickens and flies.

This memoir is sometime scary, sometimes enlightening but mostly humorous.

Reviews

Graham Fields – Motorcycle Adventure Traveller, Best Selling Author.

Red Dust and Rainforests

Red Dust and Rainforests is a travel memoir that continues the journey of discovery first started in Gun Fights, Ghosts and Goannas. However, it is a story in its own right as the author continues to mature as an off-road motorcycle rider. This book is consists of three separate but interconnected travel adventures that culminate in riding to the northernmost tip of Australia, Cape York.

Red Dust and Rainforests explores the importance of preparation, confidence and the role mates play in an adventurous life.

On completion of this book the reader will have travelled through 3/4 of Queensland, over 20,000 kilometres of the best most interesting adventure motorcycle riding in the world. It is filled with discovery and that quintessential Australian humour.

Literary Titan Award

Best Non Fiction Literature 2024

Gun Fights, Ghosts and Goannas by Gary Wood chronicles an extraordinary journey through Queensland, blending adventure, culture, and history. Frustrated by the endless grind of working to make a living, Gary set off on a bold bike expedition. His courage was rewarded with unforgettable experiences and profound insights. From uncovering the history of Dead Man’s Island—the final resting place of the first European to die in the region—to reveling in Central Queensland’s vibrant wildlife, Gary’s odyssey captures the heart of exploration. As he roams the landscapes, he reflects on life’s connections and the ties between his past and present.

This book is perfect for history enthusiasts. Gary’s story brims with captivating details, like the story of the Roma Court House and the notorious cattle thief, Captain Starlight. Rich cultural themes further enhance the book’s appeal, offering pearls of wisdom and memorable advice. For instance, I learned a quirky survival tip: follow kangaroos if lost in Australia, as they often lead to roads. Gary’s knack for weaving historical facts with cultural insights creates an engaging tapestry that immerses the reader. The meticulous attention to detail allows readers to connect deeply with the journey.

Vivid descriptions bring the road paths to life, while Gary’s reflections reveal his evolving mental state—exhaustion, relief, excitement, and more. These moments anchor the narrative, making it as much about self-discovery as physical exploration. Gary’s personality shines through every page. His stories, brimming with wit and candor, delve into his personal history, musings on the modern work culture, and observations from the road. His struggle to break free from the monotony of working life resonates deeply. Adventurers and dreamers alike will find inspiration in his triumph of riding over 20,000 kilometers.

Gun Fights, Ghosts and Goannas invites readers to embrace adventure and see the world with fresh eyes. Gary writes with generosity and charm, ensuring no detail is overlooked. This book will spark your wanderlust, teach you about Queensland’s rich history, and challenge you to rethink the possibilities of your own journey.