John O’Brien
Australian Author and Bush Poet
Father Patrick Hartigan (1878-1952), also known as “John O’Brien“, was a best-selling author, poet and Catholic priest. He wrote four books (two of which were published posthumously). O’Brien is best known for his first book of poetry, Around the Boree Log and Other Verses (1921).
John O’Brien, made a significant contribution to Australian literature, one which is worthwhile celebrating. As The Cairns Post once said,
“John O’Brien bears an honoured place on the scroll of Australia’s most popular versifiers”.
Lest he be forgotten, his memory is celebrated bythe annual “John O’Brien Bush Festival” in the town of Narrandera, where Father Patrick Hartigan served as parish priest for many years. The festival celebrates Australian rural culture, puts on performances of the poetry of John O’Brien, as well as hosting a roll-up of modern bush poets.
John O'Brien Heritage Museum
The John O'Brien Heritage Museum is a dedication to Father Patrick Hartigan, who was the author of many Australian bush poems. He was renowned for imprinting the spirit of the bush within his poems. He wanted to share with everyone the history of the early Irish catholics and colonial history by looking at how they lived their lives. Step back in time and explore a piece of Australia's history at the Heritage Museum!
The Museum is located next to the St Mel's Roman Catholic Church in Audley Street, Narrandera New South Wales. Tours can be taken by prior arrangement.
Phone the Museum - (02) 6959 2080