At a young age Bill was separated from his twin sisters and placed in foster care and other institutions.

Then, at the age of 14, he was able to escape. Sleeping on the streets of Kings Cross, he remembers the kindness of prostitutes who would give him food and protect him from those who preyed on young boys.

At 23 he almost lost his life through alcohol addiction and 10 years later suffered a complete mental and physical breakdown.

Bill suffered abuse and trauma that no child should endure - and only at the age of 57 was he able to tell his story.

Close to retirement, and after a successful career, Bill and his wife Dawn built a Foundation that supports children and young people in need in the Illawarra and Shoalhaven.

The William Campbell Foundation was established in 1998, an out-of-home-care agency with a focus on keeping siblings together.

He has also published a book about his life.

Bill will speak about his journey on Saturday, March 7 from 2.30pm at the Library Auditorium Railway Parade, Kiama . Members $5 Visitors $8