Des Parker is over the moon with the end product. “When you see the end result and you think of all the hours you’ve put into it, you realize it has all been worthwhile," he said.
Des Parker has pieced together the history of Port Pirie in his new book ‘Port Pirie - My City’.
The book will evoke many memories for the older generations, with its old photos and captivating descriptions that capture some of the defining moments in Port Pirie’s history.
Des has always had an ambition to put out a book, although he believes he would need two or three books to cover everything.
“My ambition was to save some of Port Pirie’s history, and I think I’ve done it in this book,” he said.
The book features many photos of old buildings and the events that have shaped Port Pirie.
This includes many photos of the old beach carnival and Smelter’s Picnic at Crystal Brook, when they gave away free oranges, lollies and milk.
Des recommends buying the book because it contains history that older generations will never forget.
“Growing up in town you notice some of the old buildings that have disappeared over the years – it’s incredible,” he said. But he doesn’t feel that one book has done it justice.
“You need two or three books to cover everything,” he said
He self published the book because he wanted to do it his way.
“Even the captions underneath the book reflect how I think,” he said.
The title of the book comes from Des’ love for his city.
“I just love the people,” he said. “They’ve been very good to me over many years.
“I’ve got no wish to go anywhere else.”