Vale Robert Macklin

Writer and director Robert Macklin died on 16 January, aged 84.

Macklin was the author of more than 30 books, including Dark Paradise (Hachette), Hamilton Hume (Hachette) and 4 works focusing on the SAS and Australia’s Special Forces: SAS Sniper, Redback One, SAS Insider and Warrior Elite (all also Hachette). His most recent book was The Man Who Planted Canberra (NLA, 2025).

A graduate of the Australian Film, Television and Radio School, Macklin also wrote and directed documentary films in 32 countries of Asia and the South Pacific.

Hachette Australia writes:

All at Hachette Australia are deeply saddened to learn of journalist, columnist, and bestselling author Robert Macklin’s recent death. The Hachette team, and publishers Matthew Kelly and Vanessa Radnidge, worked with Robert on many of his bestselling and award-winning books – from Hamilton Hume and SAS Sniper to Dragon & Kangaroo and Castaway – and Robert’s storytelling talent and work ethic were inspiring to all he worked with.

All at Hachette send their condolences to Robert’s wife, Wendy, his sons, Rob and Ben, and his family and friends.

Category: Obituaries