Central Victoria's self-proclaimed 'book man' says he was saved from a traumatic childhood by books. Now, he returns the favour, rescuing and re-homing books by the thousand.
Help keep family & friends informed by sharing this articleShareThe 62-year-old has made it his mission to rescue books that would otherwise be destroyed.
"Eventually, I heard about a bookshop in Castlemaine closing down. I heard all the books would end up at the tip, and I thought, I can't let that happen."Then after 10 ute loads worth of books, I brought them home. Then came an estate with a lot of books, and I saved them too."Books have been collected across Victoria. Wherever possible, Mr Reid passes them on to other people. Sometimes they are gifts, sometimes he has one-dollar sales just to help cover costs.
"My whole childhood was under their care until I left at 17 years of age. A lot of horrible stuff happened but I can't talk about it without depressing myself. He even worked up the courage to play football and cricket for the first time as an adult, becoming a stalwart at the Merbein and South Mildura football clubs. He played his last games as a 60-year-old.
His wife Kathy has also had multiple challenges and his two sons have complex health issues, including scoliosis, autism and Asperger's syndrome.
Malaysia Latest News, Malaysia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Commonwealth Games could be pushed back to 2027 after Victoria's cancellation, senate inquiry hearsCommonwealth Games Australia has been accused of a lack of urgency by a senate inquiry as it searches for a new host for the 2026 games.
Read more »
‘A Games anywhere is better than no Games’: Victoria’s call could move it to 2027The Commonwealth Games could be delayed one year and scaled down as multiple inquiries grapple with how Victoria’s rushed and extravagant event spun out of control.
Read more »
Rescue efforts stepped up after deadly floods in central GreeceGreek PM tours area amid fears death toll could rise as water levels continue to rise in some places
Read more »
The best homes for sale in Victoria right nowLooking for your next home in Victoria? We’ve got you covered, from stunning period homes to an over-sized, inner-city crowd please.
Read more »
Live: Saints and Giants meet for winner takes all elimination final at the MCGSt Kilda and GWS have enjoyed rapid rises in 2023, but one of their journeys will end at the MCG this afternoon. Follow the action in our live blog.
Read more »