The collection contains a small amount of correspondence, journal articles, book reviews, typescript articles, photographs, newspaper clippings and transcripts of the radio programmes, "Bookflash" and "Armchair chat". The papers all relate to Dr Roderick's work as a writer with particular emphasis on his publications entitled "Ralph Rashleigh" 1952, "John Knatchbull" 1963, "The lady and the lawyer", and the play, "Jemmy Green in Australia".
Colin Roderick is an author and academic who has written a number of books on Australian history and literature. Between 1945-1965 he was education editor of the Publishing Department of Angus and Robertson. His publications include "20 Australian novelists" 1947, authentic edition of "Ralph Rashleigh" 1952, with memoir of convict author James Tucker, and "John Knatchbull" 1963. In 1965 he was appointed Foundation Professor of English at University College Townsville (later James cook University) and held that position until retirement in 1976. He was active in efforts to create the first chair of Australian Literature at an Australian University. From 1957-1991, Roderick was a judge for the Miles Franklin Award.