A Memoir of Fandom, Fatherhood, and the Far Side of the World

“In a very real sense, Queensland Origin has been the connective tissue of my life. For years, dates circled on the calendar with two million Sunshine State kin; in more recent times, an annual dose of identity in a foreign land. A jumping-off point with new acquaintances; a safe place to land with old friends. Glorious affirmation that dreams can come true; crushing realization that suffering is inevitable. And, not least of all, the gift of a precious, reliable, indestructible space built for two: myself and my Dad…” 

It’s June 8, 2022. On the outskirts of Vancouver, Canada, my elderly parents and my two younger brothers gather in the living room of my Ladner townhouse to watch an early morning replay of the year’s opening State of Origin. The occasion is full of unknowns. I have no clue as to the result of the game, which concluded just before sunrise, Australian time. I cannot say when we’ll travel from the four corners of the globe to see each other in person again. And, due to the incurable cancer in Dad’s blood, I fear this may be the last time I watch Queensland go round with my father.

Marooned uses this crossroads moment as the spur to look back on my lifelong love of the Queensland rugby league team and explore the role it has played in shaping and affirming my identity. Written as a chronological series of funny, thoughtful and accessible essays, the memoir chronicles my unique journey as a Maroon devotee, the highs and lows on and off the field, the key place the team has occupied in the relationship with my father and my disabled son, and its necessity in connecting me to my state of origin while living far from home. 

“I loved reading Marooned. It’s a heartfelt walk down memory lane shining its brightest light on the importance of family and of love.”
– John Eales, Queensland Legend and Wallabies Icon

“By far the best book about State of Origin and all the emotions, memories and family interactions entwined with it that I’ve ever read. So much more than just a great book about a footy contest. If Origin means something to you, this book will hit you right in the heart. Very highly recommended.”
– Michael Gerard Bauer, Prime Minister’s Literary Award Winner

“Not only did Marooned allow me to reconnect with some of my favourite State of Origin memories, it reminded me there are no straight lines in life, just a whole bunch of squiggles, and it’s how well you handle the squiggles that will determine the quality of your life.”
– Ben Ikin, Maroon Legend & CEO Qld Rugby League

‘A lively coming of age story by a Queenslander raised by State of Origin.’
– Joe Gorman, Award Winning Author of Heartland: How Rugby League Explains Queensland

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