Michael Noonan (1921-2000), novelist, author of children's books, scriptwriter and playwright, had work published, produced and broadcast all over the world in a career spanning 50 years. His first published book, In the Land of the Talking Trees, was written while he was on active service in New Guinea with the AIF. After being discharged, he studied Art at the National Gallery, Melbourne, and humanities at University of Sydney.
Michael Noonan first became established as a radio script writer. His radio series and serials, totalling thousands of episodes, include: Space Patrol, Superman, Clancy of the Outback (BBC) and Flying Doctor in Africa (BBC). Michael Noonan's numerous radio plays have been produced in over 20 countries. He helped pioneer Australian filmed television production for international markets with the first half-hour and hour series produced in this country. These include the original Flying Doctor series, Wiplash, Riptide, Sergeant Cork, S.S. Jezebel, Mr Tumbleweed and Black Beauty. Michael Noonan also wrote numerous novels and works of nonfiction for both adult and younger readers. Among these are six Flying Doctor books, McKenzie's Boots (UQP 1987), Magwitch and a biography of E.J. Banfield, the Beachcomber of Dunk Island - A Different Drummer (UQP 1986).
In 1957 Michael Noonan moved to England, but made frequent return trips to Australia on assignment. He moved back to Australia permanently in 1979 and lived in Brisbane.
The Patchwork Hero and The December Boys, both timeless Australian classics, were re-released by UQP in 1990.
