Tony Squire is the creator of Buckley, the world's favourite Yowie, who appeared in his first story, Buckley the Kilcoy Yowie, in 2019. Although originally intended to be a character for primary/high school children, the tales of Buckley the Yowie soon became popular with younger children when the author began to write short stories and picture book readers. Buckley is fast becoming one of the best loved pre and primary school characters of all time, and his stories and adventures are enjoyed the world over.Tony was born on 6 November 1962, in Reading, England. Being the son of a professional soldier, Tony lived in five different countries, and was educated at sixteen schools worldwide. At school he particularly enjoyed history and art, which later resulted in his creation of Buckley, both in word and shape, and the insertion of his character in to real historical events. Tony's intention was always to create a fun story in which children have a both enjoyable and learning experience, whether it be about history, diversity or just plain good old fashioned morals and attitudesThe design of Buckley the Yowie was inspired by the statue of the Kilcoy Yowie in the town of Kilcoy, Queensland, Australia, which depicts the Yowie as a man, not a monster. Tony hopes that through Buckley's innocence, fun spirit, and magic, children will enjoy reading and learning at the same time. The magical Buckley is becoming hugely popular and a series of adventures has followed, including the introduction of Buckley's friends and adopted family. Buckley has expanded from the original short stories, to a novel about Buckley's friendship with the notorious outlaw Ned Kelly, and several reading books. Tony is the sole driving force in the development of all Buckley the Yowie projects at every stage. He and his wife Sheila reside in Woolmar, Queensland, which is just outside of Kilcoy; Yowie country. Conversations and memories from their childhoods provide continual inspiration for the Buckley stories.Tony hopes that children of all ages will grow to love his stories and pass on the love to their own children.
