Craig Hamilton speaking on ‘A Better Life’
Location
Craig Hamilton was born and raised in Singleton and spent 16 years working as an underground coalminer in the Newcastle area before embarking on a radio career fulltime in 1999.
He’s now a popular ABC Hunter presenter, having hosted Saturday morning breakfast for a number of years. Craig is also one of the ABC’s favourite sports broadcasters, forming an integral part of ABC Sport’s rugby league calling team. He’s worked on the past 17 Grand Finals, State of Origin series and a number of Test Matches as well as covering international rugby union and cricket.
Craig is a sought-after motivational speaker who works tirelessly for mental health issues. He was diagnosed with bipolar disorder following a psychotic episode on the eve of the Sydney Olympics in 2000 where he was to work as a broadcaster. His account of this episode, the healing process and the fundamental change in his life and outlook since is detailed in his 2004 book Broken Open.
He has just released his second book A Better Life. The book not only acknowledges his own illness and how he manages it, but it tells the stories of others in an uplifting way. A Better Life is aimed at men in particular, offering encouragement to those battling their own issues. He now regards the year his world broke as the greatest thing to have happened to him.
I have survived but so many others with a mental health issue are tempted to give up. I know it because I was there too. I write this book because I want them to know that I, and so many more people in our increasingly educated society, understand. You're depressed? I know how you feel, buddy. I've tumbled into pits of depression so severe that I never thought I would ever climb out. You're suicidal? I've been in the deepest, darkest, ugliest places you can imagine, but here's the moral to my story: I have clawed my way free. Which means you can, too.
Books will be available for sale and signing. Bookings are essential and can be made in person or by phoning the library on 6578 7500.
Enquires:
Jennifer Pritchard
Manager Community & Cultural Services
02 6578 7510
0409 657 430
Alexander Mills
Library Coordinator
Singleton Public Library
02 6578 7535
0427 432 402
