This is one helluva book, indeed one of the best books I’ve read for a long time.
“Lucky You’re Tough” is an auto-biography, crafted by noted Marlborough author Ron Crosby, about a remarkably brave New Zealander.
Mark Law grew up in the back blocks of inland Taranaki and hunting featured strongly in his upbringing. Physically fit he was an adventure-addicted young man.
Not surprisingly he embarked on a career as a badged soldier in the NZSAS which was physically and mentally testing to an unbelievable degree. Mark came through gruelling tests with flying colours.
He then jumped into working for the British SAS and as private security in active war zones. The potential for dangerous situations was high and there were repeated brushes with death, including an ambush involving diamond traders. Somehow and remarkably he survived.
Like the proverbial cat with nine lives!
Mark then returned to New Zealand to start his own helicopter business, Kāhu NZ. Then in 2019 the White Island disaster happened where in a split second decision Mark fearlessly carried out a daring rescue mission which ensured that he and the other pilots were able to comfort the injured, as well as flying twelve stranded survivors off the erupting volcanic island.
Mark’s decision and vital quick actions at the time led to himself and his fellow heroic pilots being awarded medals for bravery by the New Zealand government.
But unbelievably despite government’s recognition of the incredible bravery involved, bureaucracy then kicked him in the guts with WORKSAFE fining him almost $200,000.
So much for damned bureaucrats!
While there’s some very good chapters on commercial deer hunting in South Westland and the Ureweras, it’s chapters on SAS work and then the White Island saga that make for maximum gripping reading.
Despite the life threatening situations and then the body blow by faceless WORKSAFE bureaucrats, Mark always had a sense of humour underlying the incredible adventures and seemed to revel in surviving under extreme pressure..
Very highly recommended. adventure, resilience, bravery, daring exploits – there’re all there.
You must buy a copy. I guarantee you won’t be disappointed.
