General News
22 January, 2026
New book to be launched at J Ward
RENOWNED author Gideon Haigh is set to launch his latest book in Ararat. The Book "Who is Wallace- The Enigma of the World’s Oldest Prisoner" tells the story of Bill Wallace who was transferred from Melbourne to J Ward Ararat in 1926 after being deemed unfit to stand trial for murder.
He remained an inmate at J Ward and Aradale from 1926 until his death at the age of 107 years.
At his death he was the oldest prisoner in recorded history .
Alan Stewart, President of Friends of J Ward said it was a huge honour for the book launch to take place in Ararat.
“The organisation is delighted that Gideon has chosen to launch his latest book at J Ward. The fact that Bill Wallace lived until he was nearly 108 and is in the Guinness Book of Records creates a lot of interest from our visitors,” he said.
Gideon Haigh is a prolific journalist who has authored 51 books and edited seven more.
“Gideon has been working on the book for over two years, and we are looking forward to learning more about
the life of Bill Wallace who was a very private person,” Mr Stewart said.
Mr Haigh has visited J Ward numerous times over the past year to research his book.
The launch of the book will take place at J Ward on 25th February 2026 at 2.30 pm. Following the launch, the
book will be able to be purchased on the day.
Members of the public are invited to join the launch and are asked to book ahead by visiting www.trybooking.com/DIKHC
Read More: Ararat