Everald Compton is a 91-year-old Australian who has led a high-profile life as a relentless advocate of public issues relating to longevity, religion, infrastructure and community service, particularly in rural Australia.

Catching the Linville Train tells the story of his life experiences, all since his first train journey from his home village of Linville in the Brisbane River Valley way back in 1937. They include his perspective on world events, impressions of people he has met, nostalgic memories of pleasant experiences and reflections on his life’s achievements. It’s a fascinating story of a boy from the bush who had no money, nor a university degree, but was able to find a challenging place in the huge world far beyond Linville.

His contribution to society has been acknowledged by two awards: the Order of Australia (AM in 1993 and AO in 2021) and the Centenary Medal in 2001. The Uniting Church in Australia elected him in 1976 as an elder and lay preacher for life. Everald was the Founding Director of National Seniors Australia and is widely recognised as the Father of the Inland Railway. He worked as an international fundraising consultant for 40 years, undertaking assignments in 26 nations.

Everald married Helen 64 years ago and they have four children, eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild who live and work around the globe, a long way from Linville. He is the author of four bestselling books: The Man on the Twenty Dollar Notes; Dinner with the Founding Fathers; A Beautiful Sunset; and The Power Gift. 

"An easy and enjoyable read which will leave you feeling better informed of people, places and events; show you the impact one man can have; and inspire you to grab every opportunity and live a rich and varied life". - Spencer Howson, Radio Broadcaster

"History is fascinating, but never more so when it’s delivered by an eyewitness of events.
In “Catching The Linville Train’’ Everald Compton is our eyewitness, taking us through the 20th Century not as bystander, but as participant in extraordinary events, many now fading from living memory.
From the freeing of Nelson Mandela to insights into the mind of Sir Edmund Hillary to breakfasting with a naked Bob Hawke in a Canberra hotel room, Everald has mined nine decades of living to unearth gems which make for an enthralling read.
Born in the Brisbane Valley at the height of the Great Depression the author developed a genius for fund raising led him to assignments across 26 nations and the opportunity to become personally acquainted with every Prime Minister since Bob Menzies.
There are few books like this, and fewer men like Everald Compton whose humour, insight, generous spirit and kindly nature infuse the pages." - Michael Madigan, The Courier Mail