Brahminy

'The bird hung in the air above the river. It was so low that Luke could see it clearly, a big nuggety bird with strong talons and curving beak. Its feathers were beautiful – a lovely chestnut colour on the back and sides and bright white on the head and breast.'

That was the first time Luke had ever seen a Brahminy kite, or sea eagle. He didn’t know then that another Brahminy – a helpless, abandoned chick – would soon change his life.

COLIN THIELE, AC, was one of Australia’s most distinguish...