He's also a a passionate and long-term monarchist who has more books on the subject than most small-town libraries.

Mount Isan-born and bred and here for the long haul, Barry also has firm views on Australia's failed bids to become a republic.

"The Commonwealth arrangements have served Australia well over the years and will continue to do so.

"There should be no desperate urge to become a republic.

"The Commonwealth laws have made Australia a very good and sound country."

Barry's self-taught education of the monarchy enables him to list the people, years, tours, places to visit and momentous events in the royal family for the past two centuries, and perhaps beyond.

That's why he has chosen to celebrate the Queen's 60th jubilee of her ascension to the throne following the death of her father, King George VI, on February 6, 1952.

"This is a historical occasion that deserves to be recognised," he said.

To that end, Barry is hosting "a small morning tea" in the Mount Isa City Council offices from 10am-1pm on Monday February 6.

There he will display many of his books on the then Princess Elizabeth's rise to the throne and her rushed trip back to the UK from an African tour with her husband Prince Phillip on hearing of the death of her cancer-ridden father, the King.

"Immediately she was elevated to be ruling monarch by an authoritative ascension council, but her coronation was not until June 1953."

The 26-year-old Queen and Prince Phillip then toured Australia and most other Commonwealth countries in 1954 - the first time a ruling monarch had done so.

Barry invites anyone with other royal memorabilia to bring it along to the display or call him on 47439527.