The library hosted former students from Patrician Brothers Fairfield who have done well in their chosen careers since leaving school.

Among the attendees, former student, budding author and nurse Michael Estepa took time away from his busy schedule to speak to current students about his achievements.

``Since graduating from high school in 2003, I self-published my book Purged by Darkness in 2004 when I was 19 years old,'' he said.

``After gaining considerable support from the Fairfield community, I decided to take a chance and send my manuscript abroad.''

Late last year Mr Estepa's manuscript, about Triads, was picked up by a publisher in the US.

``After a long editing process, Purged by Darkness was officially released by Eloquent Books [a New York-based publisher] in June this year,'' he said.

Mr Estepa's book was also featured in the Frankfurt Book Fair in Germany earlier this month.

``I have now been invited by my publisher to take part in the London Book Fair next April and the New York Book Expo next May how exciting,'' he said.