Mr O’Neill, who is part of a big water skiing family, said he wanted to share his love of the river with kids across Victoria.
“The Murray River has played such a big part in my life that it made sense to use it as the backdrop to a Christmas story,” he said.
“I know I’m not alone in loving the Murray and hopefully the story resonates with people regardless of where they holiday or live along the river.”
The story follows Santa after he crashes into the river at Albury on a pre-Christmas training run.
When he discovers there is a back-up sleigh at Murray Bridge, he decides the best way to get there is to water ski, of course.
Santa skis, wakeboards, barefoots and canoes past the Murray’s many towns and holiday spots, while also reminding us all that there is always time for fun.
In Echuca, he stops for a wakeboard behind a paddlesteamer.
Santa Skis The Murray is the second book from Mr O’Neill, who spends his summers at Torrumbarry and Yarrawonga-Mulwala.
“My first book, The Seagull Who Soared, was based on the Great Ocean Road,” he said.
“I have two kids under three now so writing stories has taken on an added importance and I hope my books will help them and other Victorian children to learn more about their state.”
Santa Skis The Murray is illustrated by Isabella Gagliano and will be available for purchase at Collins Booksellers, Echuca, Shop 2/519 High St.
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