AFTER winning awards for films screened across Australia and internationally, Carrajung-based filmmaker, Luke Robson has turned his creative lens to the written word with the release of his debut novel, This Incredible Xennial Life.
Described as a “raw and nostalgic coming-of-age odyssey,” the novel spans four decades and follows Benji Mathews – born in 1979, caught between Gen X and the Millennials – as he navigates love, loss, rebellion, and a rapidly changing world.
From 1980s video stores to AI-driven chaos, from young romance to off-grid solitude, Benji’s journey blends humour, grit, and reflection, with just enough mystery to keep readers turning the pages.
Many of the book’s chapters are set right here in Gippsland, inspired by the region’s landscapes and communities.
Luke’s local ties run deep – he lives off-grid in Carrajung, while his family are based in Loch Sport, the coastal town where he filmed his feature A Small Punch in a Little Town six years ago.
With multiple awards for filmmaking and editing – including work on Hollywood features such as Cash 2 and the upcoming Cash 3 – Luke is no stranger to telling stories that connect with audiences.
“For me, it doesn’t matter if it’s a camera or a pen – it’s all about creating something that resonates,” he said.
“I hope this book hits the same emotional chords with readers that my films have with audiences.”
Luke Robson is a filmmaker, writer, drama teacher, and former plumber who built a home on a mountain in Carrajung and then wrote a book in it.
Born in 1979, he’s spent a lifetime chasing waves, questioning everything, and balancing analogue roots with a digital future. His debut work, This Incredible Xennial Life, is a nostalgic, reflective, and occasionally wild ride through a generation caught in the middle of it all.
When he’s not writing or making films, Luke teaches drama, edits other people’s movies, brews his own beer, talks to lyrebirds, and gives his dog Kat a good belly rub.
This Incredible Xennial Life is available now on Amazon, or – in true country style – straight from the boot of Luke’s car.
Luke can be reached via: l_robson@hotmail.com
Read: Luke Robson’s debut novel explores
love, loss and rebellion.
