Dr. Derek Pugh OAM is an esteemed educator and award-winning author known for his extensive works on Northern Territory history, science, travel, and young adult fiction (see derekpugh.com.au). His most celebrated contributions include a historical series on the settlement of the Northern Territory, the Overland Telegraph Line, and a memoir recounting his experiences living in Maningrida. Derek also served as the presenter in the acclaimed feature documentary "Twenty to the Mile," which explores the Overland Telegraph Line, and he frequently shares his expertise on Northern Territory history through various podcasts. Derek moved to the Northern Territory in 1982, where he worked in land conservation and with Kakadu National Park. He holds five university degrees or postgraduate qualifications, along with an honorary doctorate from Charles Darwin University. Although now "professionally retired," Derek continues to engage in lecturing and writing books and screenplays focused on Territory history.In addition to his non-fiction work, Derek has authored two novels, including Tammy Damulkurra, which is a prescribed Year 9 reader across the entire nation of Kiribati. Since 2021, Derek has also been a Guest Lecturer with Coral Expeditions, where he continues to share his knowledge and passion for the history of the Northern Territory.
