An Unlikely Diplomat

“An Unlikely Diplomat is an intriguing autobiography that shows us the workings of Australian Embassies, sometimes in difficult countries for our diplomats and travelling Australians. George Knox takes us on a journey to Canada, USA, USSR and Chile (during the time of Allende’s Presidency!). An Unlikely Diplomat arouses our empathy for the author, because of the hardships he faces during his lifetime, which include his time as a ward of the state and a family tragedy. Above all else, however, we develop admiration for the triumph of his human spirit.”

- Ken Price, author of Kokoda Mist

“A remarkable tale of inner strength, courage and hope. From abject poverty and childhood abuse to a successful future filled with ambition, pride and adventure.”

- Vivian Waring, author of When Tears Ran Dry

“I had to write my thoughts the second I turned the last page. I LOVED the book. It was such a great read that I read it in four sessions. It was so hard to put down. I laughed, and I cried as I was taken on a personal journey of a life well lived. So raw and honest.”

Greg Dunk, Brisbane, Businessman working with Olympic Games persons with disabilities.

“The author’s words paint the pictures in my mind so well that we share his incredible life experiences with him. It is an eye opener, and it’s brilliant.”

Graham Bryne, Beaudesert, Qld. Former Queensland State Manager of Warner Bros, films and Video.

“It’s a really great story. A thousand thanks for sharing with us all.”

Ian Dudgeon, Canberra, Australian Strategic Studies, and formerly a senior Foreign Affairs Officer

“George has lived and witnessed many historical events. Compulsive reading. I highly recommend this astonishing memoir.”

- Judith Flitcroft, author of Walk Back in Time

I have found that writing about one’s own life experiences has been emotionally draining, so much so that I had to leave it at times for several years. I shall endeavour to provide at least some clarity and understanding of the impact on one family in Western Australia during the Great Depression and Second World War (WW2) and the day-to-day struggle within the orphanages where my brother Robert (Bob) were placed.

Despite the above, I set myself goals that I was fortunate enough to achieve in the years that followed, at Clontarf Boys Town, by serving in both the Royal Australian Air Force, in Australia’s Foreign Service as a career overseas officer and finally by returning to Federal government service as a protocol officer with the departments of prime minister and cabinet and foreign affairs and trade. Some may disapprove of my referring to Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade officers and staff from other departments serving at Australian overseas missions as Foreign Service officers. However, while writing this memoir, I have found that it has simplified and encapsulated the core name of the many Australian Government departments that often serve at our diplomatic missions overseas.

I should have devoted so much more detail in this book to the wives and children of Foreign Service officers and the single staff who commit themselves to leave their family and friends for years at a time to face the difficulties, disruptions, illnesses, and dangers that so often occur while working at overseas missions. However, that would have been a book in itself.

George J. Knox

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