Highlights of WA racing history book
A new review praises the quality of research behind the book Siren Song on West Australian Thoroughbred racing history.
The review, following a recent publication award from the Royal Western Australian Historical Society, applauds author Dr Glen McLaren’s “excellent command of the subject.”
Writing in the latest edition of the society’s magazine History West, reviewer Michael Nind said Siren Song was a well written book that expanded on the earlier work of Jenny Tomlinson, author of Born Winners Born Losers.
“With ‘over 30 years of practical experience in the racing industry as an amateur jockey, horse breaker, breeder and owner’ Glen McLaren has set out to write a social history from ‘the perspective of those actually physically involved in the industry’,” Mr Nind wrote.
“This new history is a well written and researched work that significantly augments and complements Tomlinson’s book. Importantly, it expands its scope.
“McLaren’s book takes us from the days of Swan River colonisation to the early 21st century.
“It goes along at a fair pace, enough to realise some topics have pulled up and new starters are on the course.”
Author Dr Glen McLaren receives the high commendation award from Royal Western Australian Historical Society President Richard Offen
Mr Nind highlights the coverage of major participants such as Albert Cockram and Laurie Connell, interesting photos, changing official and social attitudes and gambling competition.
“Indeed during World War II Prime Minister John Curtin found himself unable to get a phone line east on a race day as the bookies and touts were at work,” he wrote.
“The author has an excellent command of the subject and there is much here for non-racing enthusiasts.”
The book is available at Racing WA, priced at $35. Copies can be posted for an extra $10 or visit the office for free collection at 14 Hasler Road, Osborne Park WA 6017.
For more information email ReceptionStaff@rwwa.com.au or call 08 9445 5333.
Susan de Ruyter