Defying the Gatekeeper

This is the shocking true story of one little girl, Margaret, whose life began in poverty and violence. After the death of her 27 year old father from alcoholism, 18 month old Margaret's mother established a relationship with a violent man who gave her the ultimatum, "if you want to stay with me - you get rid of the brats!" Placed in Australian Government 'care' Margaret experienced the shocking systematic abuse of 'Wards of the State' in institutions such as Winlaton Youth Training Centre and Winberra.


Labeled a 'problem child', and a 'psychiatric case' in adolescence, Margaret's ensuing journey took her to the depths of physical, emotional, spiritual and mental abuse at a time when many kids simply fell through the cracks and got lost within the Australian welfare system of the 1960's and 1970's. From the bottom of the world, living her life through drugs, alcohol and prostitution, Margaret finally emerged triumphant.


This is ultimately a story about hope, and the power of the human spirit.


' …ensure that the most vulnerable of our community is protected against the injustice told in this inspiring book…'

Barbara Holborrow OAM

Former children's court Magistrate

Patron for 'Hope of Children Foundation' 


'A book for every foster carer and government developer of social policies, needs to read'.

Liz Mullinar AM. BTh. M. Couns

Founder & CEO of HEAL FOR LIFE