We are delighted to announce the release of an updated version of Gordon’s previously self-published memoir, Learning a Trade: 1944-1949. Publishing these memoirs is something Gordon has said gave him a new lease on life, and at 98 years old, to still be publishing books is quite an achievement. We find it inspirational. Gordon describes the memoir as being about, “My apprenticeship as a fitter and turner at the Newport Workshops from 1944 to 1949 which were no ordinary years. World War II was in a critical stage, and the workshops were manufacturing a huge range of armaments, as well as keeping the VR railways running. This book is not only about my apprenticeship, but is a history of how Victorians coped with life, particularly during the war years of 1944 to 1945.” The memoir also covers the campaign for a 40-hour workweek and provides a compelling first-hand account of the struggle and lessons learnt from a difficult war-time and post-war era.

https://www.amazon.com.au/Learning-Trade-1944-1949-Gordon-Smith/dp/1763836827/