Name:
Peter Machell (rhymes with Rachel)
Chapter:
Fortitude Valley
What’s your story?
I've been on this planet for just over half a century. But I still learn stuff every day. I've been called an over-opinionated geek but I generally prefer analogue to digital. I'm a keen amateur musician and enjoy collecting beautiful guitars. Went back and married that girl from high school, dad to a blended family.
How long have you been with TGBC? First Book?
I found club and joined pool hall sometime in 2016. But I didn't go to chapter until Neuromancer which was December 2018.
How did you end up coming to TGBC?
I just thought there must be a book club for guys and found it online. I didn't love or finish many of the books until I discovered how good the meetings are. In hindsight I can see that it took a significant event - the death of my father - for me to realise that I didn't have close friends anymore, and I had to change something in my life. I tried a number of communities but TGBC was where I felt the most genuinely included. I was very grateful to find this club and I've been all in ever since.
What is your favourite TGBC book?
We've read several books that I consider masterpieces. The Eye of the Sheep is the best Australian book I've ever read. Others I've loved are Home, Cannery Row, Last Exit to Brooklyn (brutal!), For Whom the Bell Tolls, Small Gods, Steppenwolf and A Clockwork Orange.
Why are you a member of TGBC?
I'm very invested and involved in my work and my other responsibilities. TGBC is a place where I can be myself and be apart from all of that, get some respite from it. It's become the most important social community for me.
What do you think a "Tough Guy" is?
Somebody that does the right thing even when nobody is watching, and even if it hurts.
What is your favourite library?
The Brisbane Square Library is wonderful.
What book have we not read that you'd like to do at TGBC?
Rhubarb by Craig Silvey. A wonderful tale of misfits and how they relate to others.
What is something people wouldn't know about you if they judged you by your cover?
Sometimes I worry that I'm getting outgrown by my friends, cause I still love drinking and I still love sleeping in.
What is your favourite drink?
A nice cold lager.
