Remembering Hilary McPhee: A Legendary Figure in Australian Publishing

Australia's publishing industry is mourning the loss of a legendary figure, Hilary McPhee, who left an indelible mark on the country's literary landscape. McPhee, a trailblazing editor and publisher, co-founded McPhee Gribble in 1975, a small publishing house that would go on to play a significant role in shaping Australian literature.

With her partner Diana Gribble, McPhee set out to challenge the male-dominated publishing industry of the time, promoting the work of Australian writers and championing feminist literature. Their venture was met with skepticism by some, who warned them of failure and suggested they focus on publishing books on topics such as pornography or horses.

McPhee's impact on Australian publishing cannot be overstated. During her time at McPhee Gribble, which lasted until 1989, she worked with some of the country's most renowned authors, including Helen Garner and Tim Winton. The publishing house was known for its commitment to promoting the work of women writers and exploring themes relevant to Australian culture.

"She was, need I say, a brilliant editor. Legendary," said Carmel Bird, an author who worked closely with McPhee. Bird recalled her experiences with McPhee at the old converted sewing factory at 66 Cecil Street, Fitzroy, where they would sit on a little couch at a low table with Hilary while going through manuscripts.

McPhee's storied career spanned multiple roles, including her work as a history student at the University of Melbourne, where she was involved with the literary journal Meanjin. She later became the first woman chair of the Australia Council for the Arts and inaugural Vice-Chancellor's fellow at the University of Melbourne.

In 2001, McPhee was awarded an Order of Australia for her service to literature and the arts. Her legacy continues to inspire new generations of writers and publishers.

Bird remembered McPhee as a complex and multifaceted person, with a "commanding presence" and a "seductive husky voice." She also recalled McPhee's vulnerability and sensitivity, particularly in the face of criticism.

About her own writing, McPhee once said, "I sat by his humidicrib and stroked his little red limbs, and he gripped my finger." This poignant passage, from her memoir Other People's Houses, offers a glimpse into McPhee's personal life and her experiences as a mother.

In her later years, McPhee continued to write and publish, including the release of Other People's Words in 2001 and a revised edition of the book in 2025, with a new final chapter titled Twenty-five Years On. This piece, which explores the impact of artificial intelligence on writing and reading, may be one of her last published works.

McPhee's boundless legacy and broad, indelible mark on literature and lives will continue to be felt for years to come.