Crime writer and Miles Franklin award winner Peter Temple has died.
Mr Temple, 71, died on Thursday at his Ballarat home after battling cancer for the past six months, Fairfax Media reports.
Born in South Africa, he came to Australia as a journalist in the 1980s.
As a crime fiction writer won multiple literary awards, including the prestigious Miles Franklin literary award in 2010
Mr Temple also created the lawyer Jack Irish for a sting of novels, which were later adapted for television with Guy Pearce playing the lead role.
Mr Pearce tweeted on Sunday night: "My sincerest condolences to Peter Temple's family and friends. It's truly an honour to play one of your most beloved creations. Thank you for all the colourful characters you've introduced me to and the dark paths you've led me down. Respect and Peace PT.....xxx."
Australian Associated Press
