Never Fear The Spills

Judith Flitcroft

Many life lessons are imparted in David Wilson’s epic account of his life in his new book, Never Fear the Spills. The title and cover at first seem incongruent with the story, until you read Never Fear the Spills comes from David’s uncle who wrote them in a book of Banjo Patterson’s poems. The story behind these words follow that the members of the family were rewarded with a shiny new two shilling piece for every poem recited “with no mistakes.” It is also a story of resilience. David had a great childhood, and loving caring parents – “When do we appreciate our parents struggle to make a better life for their children?” David has travelled the world as an engineer installing pipelines across sea floors where many contingencies can happen – including having their boat washed ashore in a massive storm. Some of the countries he has worked in include, Australia, New Zealand, New Guinea, South America and on the sidelines of the Yom Kippur War in the Middle East. Snippets of dry humour add to the read. David recounts an incident when one of his five travelling companions on a train to London every day, failed to appear in his usual seat in the evening. On inquiry, they were told their companion had died during the day and was travelling home in the freight car. One “wit” sarcastically commented – “When he had a first class Ticket?” The history of fox hunting is mentioned to further enhance the cover. It is refreshing to read of a life well lived and recounted beautifully. Congratulations David.