By Brendan Morris and Stephan Wellink

The Natural: Richard 'Dick' Thornett

Regular price $36.99
Regular price Sale price $36.99

18 March 2025

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Payment in full is required for pre-orders. A book on pre-order will be shipped approximately one week prior to its official release, but may be delayed due to circumstances beyond our control. You will receive an email when the book has been shipped. Pre-orders cannot be cancelled, but may be returned in line with our returns policy. 

The Natural is a captivating biography that shines a spotlight on one of Australia’s most extraordinary sporting talents, Richard ‘Dick’ Thornett.

A prodigy from his school days, Richard’s exceptional abilities blossomed in adulthood, cementing his legacy as a world-class athlete in the 1960s. The youngest of three remarkable brothers, Richard’s achievements are nothing short of astounding. By the age of 22, he had represented Australia in water polo at the Rome Olympics, toured with the Wallabies to South Africa and New Zealand alongside his brother John, and, with his brother Ken, played a pivotal role in the historic success of the 1963-64 Kangaroos.

While The Natural celebrates Richard’s unparalleled sporting accomplishments, it goes beyond the scores and records to explore the profoundly human story behind the athlete. This is a chronicle of greatness and a compelling account of the triumphs and trials that defined Richard’s life. The book weaves in the bond he shared with his brothers, John and Ken, creating a rich narrative of family, camaraderie, and shared glory.

What sets The Natural apart is its raw honesty and emotional depth. It delves into Richard’s journey, not only on the summits of global success but also through the valleys of personal struggle.

Written by Brendan Morris and Stephan Wellink, both of whom have a profound connection to their subject, this biography offers an unparalleled perspective that captures the heart, soul, and complexity of an exceptional life.

More Information

  • Format: Paperback
  • Published: March 2025
  • ISBN: 978-1-923236-22-6, 978-1-923236-23-3 (ePub)
  • Weight: 400g
  • Size: 234mm x 156mm
  • Pages: 280 + images (estimate)
  • Imprint: Fair Play Publishing

About Author

Brendan Morris is an English teacher of 35-years standing who also has played and coached a variety of sports.

Stephan Wellink is a filmmaker and writer who has written and produced a number of feature documentaries.

Shipping Information

We offer standard postage services at cost provided by Australia Post to all destinations, which varies by weight and destination (Australia, New Zealand, and Rest of World). 

We aim to dispatch Australian book orders within two working days and worldwide orders within five working days. 

Australia Post standard delivery schedule is between 3-5 days after postage within Australia; up to 7 working days to New Zealand; and up to 15 working days elsewhere in the world. You will receive an email from us when your order has been despatched.

These times may be slower due to the Covid pandemic.

If you do not receive your order within the anticipated delivery time, please let us know and we will make inquiries of the postal service. 

We also offer a self pick-up option at Balgowlah Heights Shopping Village in Sydney.

Returns Policy

You may return most new, unopened items within 10 working days of delivery for a full refund. We'll also pay the return shipping costs if the return is a result of our error (you received an incorrect or defective item).

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Regular price $36.99
Regular price Sale price $36.99