On a country road in Croppa Creek, farmer Ian Turnbull faced environmental officer Glen Turner. What happened next shocked Australia.
An epic true story of greed, power and a desire for legacy from an acclaimed Australian storyteller.
July 2014, a lonely road at twilight outside Croppa Creek, New South Wales- 80-year-old farmer Ian Turnbull takes out a .22 and shoots environmental officer Glen Turner in the back.
On one side, a farmer hoping to secure his family's wealth on the richest agricultural soil in the country. On the other, his obsession- the government man trying to apply environmental laws.
The brutal killing of Glen Turner splits open the story of our place on this land. Is our time on this soil a tale of tragedy or triumph - are we reaping what we've sown? Do we owe protection to the land, or does it owe us a living? And what happens when, in pursuit of an inheritance for his family, a man creates terrible consequences?
Kate Holden brings her discerning eye to a gripping tale of law, land and entitlement. It is the story of Australia.
'Kate Holden finds the epic thread in this crime and weaves a quintessential Australian story.' -Chloe Hooper
'A gripping account of our land, and our selves.' -Tara June Winch
Published April 4, 2023