He is the son of a pro wrestler father and diplomat mother and the co-founder of Stab magazine. Derek worked as a blackjack dealer and bartender before becoming a full-time writer. Wednesdays with Bob is his first book. Bob Hawke is the 23rd prime minister of Australia. Born in Bordertown, SA, he joined the Labor Party in 1947 and became leader in 1983 after a decade as ACTU president. As Prime Minister 1983-91, Hawke won four elections, becoming the longest serving Labor PM in history. At 87, Bob is Australia's oldest living prime minister - and still its most popular.