Tales from a raconteur and ratbag

A NEW book based on the life of a local sporting personality has been published, with a copy submitted to the Ballaarat Mechanics Institute collection.

The Life and Times of Ron Douglas: Reminiscences of a Raconteur or The Ravings of a Ratbag follows Mr Douglas’ life as a rower, captain of the Ballarat Rowing Club (including in the the 1956 Olympic era), a Golden Point State School student, baseballer, Hollways worker, a ‘Nasho,’ and higher educator.

“It was quite interesting to go over all this stuff,” he said.

“It started off as 40 pages and went to many more. I wonder how I had the time to do all this,” he laughed.

“It’s great that people can read the story.”

Mr Douglas and the book’s author Kate Elliott – an historian, athlete and coach – recently donated a copy to the BMI collection via president Paula Nicholson and curator Ellen Becker.

Handing over the book in the Heritage Reading Room, Mr Douglas was accompanied by his sister, daughter and extended family.

“My task was to take his story and add the photographs and memorabilia and turn it into a narrative that could be published as a book,” said Elliott.

“Another really important chapter in Ron’s book was his return to Ballarat in the 1990’s with his wife Dot and his involvement in getting the Nasho’s Memorial erected in Sturt Street.”

Mr Douglas and Elliott said they developed a friendship while the book was being developed, which they will treasure and maintain for years to come.

His daughter Kerryn Douglas praised Elliott for her efforts, enthusiasm and kindness, having witnessed the book being developed over many cuppas and slices of cake.

“We are so happy and thankful to have met her,” she said.

Ms Nicholson said Mr Douglas’ appreciation for higher education and access to information aligns with the mission of the BMI.