Contributor

Simon Royal

Articles by Simon

The understated SA historian lassoing history’s myths

He grew up in a tiny South Australian town famous for its rodeo, but historian Robin Prior has made his career roping in the myths proliferating around Australia’s war efforts. His huge new undertaking, however, is being hampered by cuts to our national archives, and politicians’ priorities which favour hagiography over history.

The 'sin' of simply being yourself

The heartwrenching television series It’s a Sin has evoked memories of the AIDS epidemic in Adelaide, when young men died and were commonly buried in rejection and shame. Simon Royal wonders if the real, terrible, sins of that time can be remedied.

Abigail Sutherland with Sam Harvey: “It’s infectious isn’t it? Her enthusiasm is just infectious."

The art of changing lives

A gift made possible by two of South Australia’s most significant arts figures is changing the lives of vulnerable LGBTQI+ people. Simon Royal explains how one scholarship rescued the dreams of the young person who received it.

The witches of Milendella

In the craggy hills of the eastern Mt Lofty Ranges, live the witches of Milendella. Simon Royal explains what they tell about our history – both recent and ancient.

Pictures of power: Mortality, mercy and malevolence

The mystique of the American presidency owes much to photography. Simon Royal reflects on powerful images of the past and how everything has changed in the Trump era.

The Snapshot

An old photograph brings up memories of love, loss and chance encounters for journalist Simon Royal.

The beautiful fools who love dogs

A few months after the death of his beloved dog Hayley, Simon Royal writes about the absurdity and beauty of the fleeting relationships between humans and their dogs.