David Price in conversation: Launching The Shameful Isles
Join author David Price for the launch of The Shameful Isles, his latest non-fiction release.
In 1907, WA authorities forcibly sent Aboriginal people to lock hospitals on Bernier and Dorre Islands for experimental treatments. Many died in unmarked graves. The Shameful Isles, built on meticulous research and firsthand accounts, exposes this state‑sanctioned injustice and its enduring impact on First Nations communities.
David will be in conversation with respected Noongar educator Kevin O’Keefe at AH Bracks Library + Creative Space on Wednesday 5 November, 6.45–8.00 pm.
About the author
David Price is a Western Australian educator and writer who grew up in the small northwest town of Carnarvon. His first book, Dark Tales from the Long River, was published by Fremantle Press in 2020 and explored some of the lesser-known and sadder historical events of the Gascoyne and Murchison Regions. Now living in Perth, David continues to be intrigued by the unspoken history of his home state and is committed to bringing sometimes uncomfortable truths into the light.
About Kevin O’Keefe
Kevin O’Keefe is a respected Noongar educator and leader with roots in Yued Country. As the first Aboriginal person to graduate from the University of Western Australia, Kevin’s journey reflects a lifelong commitment to educational equity, cultural empowerment and systemic change.
Over several decades, Kevin has held school and system leadership roles within the Department of Education, including serving as principal in a range of schools, and later as executive director and principal adviser on the Department’s corporate executive team. In each role, he has been a driving force in embedding Aboriginal perspectives into mainstream education, leading reforms that prioritise student engagement, cultural responsiveness and inclusive leadership. His strategic vision and community-focused approach has strengthened connections between schools and Aboriginal communities across the state.
In recognition of his contributions, Kevin was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) and granted an Honorary Fellowship with the Australian College of Educational Leadership.
Tickets are free, but please RSVP on the City of Melville Libraries website: https://www.melvillecity.com.au/things-to-do/events/whats-on/book-launch-the-shameful-isles-by-david-price
