Born in Scotland. Worked in merchant navy, then as a police officer. Emigrated to Africa. Worked in South Africa, Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) and Protugese East Africa (now Angola). Began acting and writing in radio. Moved to Australia for his wife's health. Acted in amateur theatre, and moved into radio. Became a radio writer, novelist and TV writer, although would occasionally act. Helped establish the Australian Writers Guild.