The Diggers' Doctor - Ashley Mallett

A man of substance in war and in peace, Dr Donald Beard, AM, is a leader, and known for his compassion, humility and charm. The Diggers' Doctor tells of his extraordinary life as a surgeon, as well as his love of cricket and deep friendship with cricketers, including Sir Donald Bradman. It was in the Beards' backyard that The Don faced Jeff Thomson and hit his last cricket ball.

Dr Donald Beard has embraced those from all walks of life and considers himself enriched by the experience. Surgery, cricket, music, theatre, reading and his love for Margaret, the greatest love of his life, has warmed him to thousands. It has indeed been a fortunate life.

'Don Beard - 'the Doc' - is a familiar and much-loved figure at cricket grounds around Australia and the world. In another part of his extraordinary life, as an army doctor, he is equally revered. His role as a doctor tending to soldiers in combat in Korea is a byword in the Australian Army. At the Battle of Kapyong in 1951 his inspirational care and leadership contributed to the love the soldiers had for this strong man of peace and compassion. His invariable good humour, stamina and great professional skill made him a wonderful role model for further generations of medicos in uniform. I am delighted that one of Australia's great cricketers is writing about the Doc, one of nature's gentlemen.' - General Peter Cosgrove, AK, MC (Retd)