Thiele's literary works ranged from the early 20th century until the very early 21st century until just prior to his death in September 2006. Publications Main article: List of works by Colin Thiele Media coverage of his death was minimal, as he had died on the same day as Australian media personality Steve Irwin. He was survived by his wife, Rhonda, two children, seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild. On 4 September 2006 Thiele died from heart failure in a Brisbane hospital, aged 85. In 1986 he returned to South Australia for a family (the Wittwer family) reunion organised by Cheryal Wittwer, after which he returned to Queensland. Thiele suffered from severe arthritis from 1955 and in his later years left South Australia to settle in warmer conditions near Dayboro, Queensland. In 1977 he was made a Companion of the Order of Australia, the second highest level of the order, for his services to literature and education. Several of his books have been made into films or television series, including Sun on the Stubble, The Fire in the Stone, Blue Fin and Storm Boy. Thiele wrote more than 100 books, which often described life in rural Australia, particularly the Eudunda, Barossa Valley, and Murray River/ Coorong regions of South Australia.

He served with the Australian Army and RAAF attaining the rank of corporal during World War II and later taught in high schools and colleges. He was educated at several country schools including Kapunda High School before studying at the University of Adelaide, graduating in 1941. The young Colin only spoke German until he went to school in Julia Creek.

Thiele was born in Eudunda in South Australia to a Barossa German family.

Sun on the Stubble by Colin Thiele