Pentridge Prison -Gregory David Roberts in conversation with Michael Veitch

National Trust of Australia (Victoria)

Join us at Warders Upstairs for a conversation between two wonderful authors.

Pentridge Prison Tours

Pentridge Prison Tours - Tickets

Explore the sombre complexity behind this heritage-listed prison’s past with our National Trust guides and the contemporary use of immersive audio.

<h3>Gregory David Roberts in Conversation with Michael Veitch</h3><h3>Join the author of Shantaram Gregory David Roberts (live from Jamaica) in conversation with Michael Veitch, author and former ABC television and radio presenter, as they discuss Melbourne, freedom, life choices and the power of redemption.  </h3>Gregory David Roberts, known also as GDR, is a renowned author, songwriter, composer, and artist. His bestselling novel, Shantaram, has achieved great success, selling over 7 million copies and being translated into 44 languages. The novel is based on the raw elements of his life as a fugitive, which has captivated readers worldwide. GDR’s journey has been tumultuous, from student activist to a period of drug addiction which led to criminal activities, imprisonment at Pentridge Prison, and eventual escape to India. Despite his past struggles, GDR has made significant contributions; including establishing a medical clinic for slum dwellers and using his artistic endeavours to support charitable causes. Currently residing in Jamaica, GDR continues to write, make music and create art, while a TV series adaptation of Shantaram is available on AppleTV+. Michael Veitch began his career in the 1980s writing and performing in television comedy with programs such as the D-Generation and Fast Forward before working as a newspaper columnist and regular broadcaster for ABC radio in Melbourne and Tasmania. Between 2005-2010 he presented the national TV arts program on ABC Television, Sunday Arts. In addition to numerous television, film and theatre credits, Michael has published eleven books on subjects including travel, history, marine exploration and military history. His most recent work, Australia’s Secret Army was released in late 2022. This event is part of a new free exhibition ‘Shantaram: A Journey from Punishment to Peace’ which has been curated with GDR and opens in Warder’s Upstairs at Pentridge Prison tours from July 21. In this immersive exhibition discover GDR's inspiring life story, from a convicted criminal who served time at Pentridge Prison to becoming an acclaimed novelist, public speaker and philanthropist sharing his personal story and life philosophy.  All ticket proceeds go to The National Trust of Australia (Victoria), the state’s premier heritage and conservation organisation, helping conserve and protect Victoria’s heritage for future generations to enjoy.  Date: Sunday 13th August 2023 Time: 10am – 11am Where: Warder’s Upstairs (Pentridge Prison)Prefer to join via Zoom livestream? Purchase one of our Zoom only tickets to this event. The Zoom link will be sent out by 3pm on Friday 11th August. Optional: combine your in-person event ticket with a tour of H Division, led by one of our National Trust Guides.This event is part of a new free exhibition ‘Shantaram: A Journey from Punishment to Peace’ which has been curated with GDR and opens in Warder’s Upstairs at Pentridge Prison tours from July 21. In this immersive exhibition discover GDR's inspiring life story, from a convicted criminal who served time at Pentridge Prison to become an acclaimed novelist, public speaker and philanthropist sharing his personal story and life philosophy.  All ticket proceeds go to The National Trust of Australia (Victoria), the state’s premier heritage and conservation organisation, helping conserve and protect Victoria’s heritage for future generations to enjoy.For In Person attendance, bookings are essential as places are limited.

I﻿MPORTANT VISITOR INFORMATION: <ul><li>Check-in at the tour office, located in the Former Warders Residence. Warders can be found in the grassed courtyard area at the Clock Tower entrance at 1 Champ St, Coburg.</li><li>Parking can be found under the shopping centre via Whatmore Drive. As you come out of this car park, make your way to the ground floor via the elevators. Make your way towards the south sliding doors next to Cobrick cafe; and walk towards the Clock Tower, which should be on your right-hand-side, and you will find the tour office in the grassed courtyard area.</li><li>The parking area features multiple designated parking spaces for individuals with mobility disabilities. All tours have been equipped with ramps and other access points to ensure access for wheelchair users.</li><li>Please arrive 15 minutes early for check-in. </li><li> In the instance of changeable weather, we recommend bringing a jacket and possibly an umbrella.</li></ul>