Autumn Edition #271 MAR 2021

QUARTERLY BULLETIN O F THE FELLOWSHIP O F AUSTRALIAN WRITERS NSW INC.

Short Story “Well done, Claudia. Practice allows “Daddy you’ve always �ixed things. improvement on last season and You know everyone. I want that lead.” DANCE STEPS that’s what everyone strives for. Keep Taking a breath, she added, “You it up.” know the Producer, tell him it’s by Kaye Christensen, Claudia moved close, delivering a important to me. And to you.” Port Macquarie-Hasting FAW coquettish smile and walked her Her father wasn’t pleased, saying ������ huffed and puffed while �ingers up his arm. he’d speak to, but not coerce his Cpulling off pieces of paper towell- “Perhaps you could give me extra friend. Claudia’s phone met the ing in the ladies’ room. Claudia was practice, showing me how you want kitchen table at speed. easily put-out when cleaners didn’t my moves done?” After their �irst full-dress rehearsal do their job correctly. She wanted the Taking his bag to the table, Marcus it was decision time for Marcus and mirrors in her cornered practice area didn’t look back but replied, Producer John. Marcus had banked clean and un-smudged; offering a “I don’t give private lessons. After hours, studying movement upon better view of her new costume and casting I give extra attention to the movement as each dancer thrust �lawless dance routine. lead roles. In the meantime, we all their best at him. There would be two Not for herself, she knew she was practice as one.” further rehearsals but he was sure of perfectly groomed and postured, it The remaining cast-hopefuls his team and hoped John was ready to was for those about to arrive, �locked through the door, carrying agree. especially Marcus. Claudia knew he bags and greetings and Two days later while addressing arrived early and yesterday asked acknowledging Marcus before taking his dancers before practice, Marcus staff for a spare key, explaining that up positions. Even though she knew enthused over the incredible work she wanted extra practice. An hour they were good friends, Claudia’s achievement that led to their breath- early, she’d relocked the door rebuff multiplied when Marcus taking stage rehearsal. He was met ensuring she’d hear his arrival. slapped Jarryd on the shoulder as Marcus has it all; gorgeous looks, they smiled their hellos. Jarryd is cont. page 5… great body and is a brilliant certainly an excellent dancer and will choreographer, she mused, and last take the male lead again, she thought, season he’d added Co-Producer to his but I must beat Erica. Claudia knew IN THIS ISSUE… name after an awesome theatre little of Erica; only that she kept State Council News ...... 3 presentation. He is having almost full mostly to herself, if not practicing AGM Notice ...... 4 reign this time with the Producer with Jarryd. FAW Branch Reports ...... 6 being rarely seen, Claudia has already Erica was already immersed in her Interview: Rosemary Baldry ...... 13 noted, adding strength to her plan. routine. Practice feeds her intense Networking with Narelle ...... 14 One of last year’s chorus dancers, this focus which delivers near-perfection Vale: Laurie Brookluck ...... 15 time nothing but Lead Dancer would under instruction. Marcus was more Poets Voice ...... 16 satisfy her. than pleased with her last season so Roundup ...... 18 His key turned the lock. Claudia she’s working toward a repeat Competition Results ...... 19 continued her routine, knowing he performance. She has a few things on Vale: Ron Lyons ...... 19 would not interrupt her. Marcus her mind but her professionalism Never Ending Story ...... 20 released his backpack to the �loor. allows nothing to hinder her work. Short Story: Why Are We Here ...... 21 Completed, and turning elegantly, she “Erica, if you please,” said Marcus. Writing Competitions ...... 22 implied a slight surprise when “Plié. And. Assemblé please. Perfect.” Crossword ...... 25 huskily saying, Everyone clapped and smiled. Except Article: Human face of Kokoda ...... 26 “Oh, yes, good morning Marcus. Claudia. Literary Achievements ...... 27 I was so into that �irst-scene practice, Once home Claudia dialled her Branch Meetings and Contacts ...... 30 I didn’t hear you. I hope I have it father. She shouted at and pleaded FAW Members’Bookshelf ...... 32 exactly to your satisfaction.” with him. FAW NSW Inc. State Council: AGM and Delegates Meetings Fellowship The Executive Committee and Branch Delegates normally meet the first Saturday of May andNovember each year. Minutes are mailed to each Branch Secretary. State Council News of Australian The May 2020 meeting and deferred AGM were cancelled. The 2020 AGM, to be held concurrently with the 2021 AGM, is now scheduled forSaturday, MAY 1, 2021. Writers NSW Inc. General Membership and Subscriptions From the President From the Secretary’s desk ABN59557152715 Membership is open to anyone who has a love for writing—writers, whether amateur or � ����� members. �� beginning of another writing Incorporation Number Y12630-47 professional—or anyone interested in promoting Australian literature. HWell here we are in 2021 – year with Covid-19 still AFFILIATION FEES – $40 pa Full Membership ($20 U21/Youth Rate)—due by T General correspondence: let’s hope it’s going to be a much problematic, however, many branches 31 DECEMBER each year and paid to the Branch Treasurer where a member attends better year. Hon. Secretary, FAW NSW Inc. meetings. Cheques/money orders payable to Fellowship of Aust Writers. have resumed meetings. Maybe their 3/91 Main Road I hope branches can get back to meeting format isn’t quite the same McLaren Vale SA 5171 Each Branch sets its own ANNUAL FEE from which the $40 (or $20) affiliation fees are forwarded to FAWState Council for costs involved with printing and mailing Writers Voice, holding meetings and the as in 2019, but they are meeting, public liability insurance and administration. Fellowship we have been missing which is to be applauded. Patrons: ISOLATED WRITERS – $46 pa ($51 overseas, $23 Youth U18)—see inside back page. Please since this awful period of our lives, We are planning an AGM, details Prof. E. Webby AM, FAHA mail subscriptions to the FAW State Treasurer Kay Bakon (address at left). Please make although I am sure it has something Ms Patti MillerBA , MA page 4, and we urge everyone to cheques/money orders payable to‘Fellowship of Australian Writers’. to teach us. PAYMENTS VIA ONLINE BANKING: consider nominating for a position. State President: I think the pandemic has also Trevar Langlands – 0402 209 267 BSB: 082-936 Account: 172389833 Account name: Fellowship of Australian Writers. Your present State Committee is Please include your name as identification for payment. brought us together in many ways. working hard to steer the Vice President: Writing Fellows Many have managed to write more, organisation towards its Centenary in Cate Plink – 0492 833 522 FAW Writing Fellows are listed here: . care for each other and take up new 2028. However, we don’t have the The broad criteria for this class of membership, are that the applicant should have had a hobbies. genes Peter Pan was lucky to inherit Hon. Secretary and Publicity Officer : substantial body of work published and should normally have been a member of the As many know I spent long weeks FAW for at least two years. A committee of the State Council adjudicates on each courtesy of J M Barrie! Maureen KellyOAM – 0417 403 720 application, which should be forwarded to the Registrar of Writing Fellows, FAW State in hospital and have been a bit out I, personally, love my secretary/ Council, 3/91 Main Road, McLaren Vale SA 5171. The application should: of touch with what’s going on. publicity roles and my connection Hon. Treasurer: a) be accompanied by a $50.00 cheque, payable to‘Fellowship Aust. Writers’. Thankfully I am much improved with the entire membership via the Kay Bakon – 4321 0935 b) indicate the Branch where the applicant is currently a member and the number of and graduated to a stick for just one years of FAW membership. State Committee. There is heaps of Unit 801, Henry Kendall Gardens, c) have attached a list of published, performed or broadcast works, with dates and lazy leg, but improving weekly. satisfaction in being involved as a 150 Maidens Brush Road, WYOMING NSW 2250 details of publication. Also list any literary prizes awarded, although such works may Thanks to my wonderful committee member and these days Competition Convenor: be unpublished. Unpaid contributions to newspapers etc. and self-published works Committee members for their you only have to meet face-to-face (unless widely sold and acclaimed) should not be included. Come join me online or on the Cate Plink – 0492 833 522 continued help and especially twice a year – May and November – The one-time fee of $50.00 will be used to cover costs of administration and cost of radio, or go to our website Maureen Kelly for keeping you all please consider. certificate. Excess funds will be used to further the work of the FAW. If the application is <2mcr.org.au> and just click on Acting Membership Registrar: unsuccessful, the cheque will be returned, perhaps with a suggestion to re-submit an up to date with news and other We are also seeking the services of Jackie Laing listen. We are also world-wide, application when a greater body of work has been published. information. a certi�ied auditor/accountant for heard around the world. Distinguished Service Award I look forward to seeing you at 2021/22 – perhaps a member, a General Committee: Photo shows when using walker. This annual award recognises FAW members confidentially recommended by their the AGM and also at some branch family member or a friend? Have you Colleen Parker – 6583 3997 Branch Committees and approved by the DSA Assessment Committee. DSA members Now having just a stick to rely on. meetings, as well as at the Seniors a recommendation? will be honoured in the following way: successful candidates will be presented with Card workshops. And hopefully that too will go. Pamela Ferrari – 4623 4007 certificates acknowledging their outstanding service at the Annual Awards Luncheon Recently, we lost the services of and in addition, a permanent Honour Roll in Writers’ Voice lists the names of recipients, as I am now back on my radio show, Trevar Langlands FAW stalwarts – Rae Luckie and Vince Hatton (Public Officer) well as on the website . Wednesdays 9am–noon, 100.3FM. NSW State President Shirley Goodbar. As personal Guidelines for assessing recommendations for Distinguished Service Awards: 1. Recommendations must be the unanimous decision of a current Branch Committee. commitments are playing a major Isolated Writers Convenor: part in their lives, they have resigned Carolyn Cash – 0427 895 574 2. Qualifications to include the following features: (a) Length of service as a current financial member to be at least ten (10) years. from their respective positions of (b) Required to have a regular attendance record at Branch Meetings. Manuscript Assessor and Poetry sub- Webmaster: (c) Required to have participated in activities organised by the Branch Committee on Ken Driver a regular basis for at least eight years or to have served on the Branch Committee DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD editor(see page 4). for at least eight years. HONOUR ROLL On behalf of the membership I 3. All recommendations to be submitted to the DSA Assessment Committee, wish to sincerely thank them both for 3/91 Main Road, McLarenVale SA 5171, by 30 June of each year. their long and loyal service to the 4. A committee comprising the State President, the Vice President, the Secretary and the Denise Aldridge Beryl Dundas* Johan Luidens Pat Strong WRITERS VOICE ISSN 0817-0746 Treasurer will assess recommendations. The DSA Committee’s decision is final. Carolyn Alfonzetti Joan Dwyer Elizabeth McVie Frank Urban FAW and wish them good luck in their future endeavours. The official Bulletin of the Fellowship of AustralianWriters NSW Inc ISBN Patricia Allen Margaret Ekin Vince Morrison Carney Vaughan is published quarterly. Opinions expressed are those of the A FREE ISBN (one number per publication) is available to members—contact the FAW Ellen Ash Thelma Flower* Esther Osborne Mei-Ling Venning Wollondilly member Pam Ferrari individual authors and not necessarily those of the FAW or the Hon. Secretary Maureen Kelly . Gavin Austin Shirley Goodbar Rosemary Peters Linda Visman has also advised she won’t be seeking editor. The editor reserves the right to edit or delete submissions State Committee re-election in May. for length, content, or policy. All advertisements and items are Public Fund Barbara Aylott Eileen Gray Peter F Pike Margaret Wilkinson accepted in good faith but the FAW NSW Inc cannot accept Donations of $2.00 and over to this account are tax deductible. When there are sufficient Eileen Backhus* Pip Griffin Margaret Robinson* Margaret Young She held a general committee responsibility for misrepresentation by advertisers nor does funds, Branches may approach State Council for an amount for a specific purpose. position. Hopefully, a present Jill Baggett Mavis Gunter Rina Robinson *Deceased inclusion of any item imply endorsement by FAW NSW Inc. Without donations FAW cannot grow and achieve this aim. When a member makes a �inancial member may consider donation, a note of his/her Branch is made. Rosemary Baldry Mavis Hayes* Alan Russell* Editor: Ken Driver.Copy for submission should be sent to: Margaret Barlow Dr Anne Howard Albert Scott* nominating. Thank you, Pam for your The Editor, Writers’Voice FAW Manuscript Assessment Service Miriam Bates Margaret Jackson Bridget Sharp support during your time on the 28/100 Government Road, WYEE POINT NSW 2259 Critical reading with general criticism, editing including interpolation of articles, short FAW NSW STATE committee. stories and novels. A fee applies of $50 ($60 non-members) for a sample assessment of Cyril Bentley* John Jacobs Dr John Sheppard Mobile: 0418 491 739 LIFE MEMBERS two chapters up to 7,000 words and $25 ($30 non-members) for one or two poems of no Meryl Bentley* Maureen Kelly OAM Margot Shugg There were no Distinguished Email: more than 60 lines each. A detailed quote for the critical assessment of the remaining Elaine Burton Lyn Leerson Barbara Snel Trevar Langlands Service Award nominations last year, QUARTERLY COPY DEADLINES: work will be supplied should the author require further editorial or constructive advice. Colleen Parker however, the guideline criteria 15 MAY, 15 AUGUST, 15 NOVEMBER, 15 FEBRUARY Ken Challenor* Pat Lindsay Yvonne Sorensen For manuscripts, please include a synopsis and approximate word count and a stamped include at least ten years’ service by a for June, September, December and March issues respectively. self-addressed envelope for return of all the assessments. For further information phone Jan Dean Helen Luidens* Dorothe Squires-Cooper 0417 403 720 or write to FAW Assessment Service, 3/91 Main Road McLarenVale SA 5171 cont. next page…

2 WRITERS’VOICE271—MARCH2021 Website: fawnsw.org.au Website: fawnsw.org.au WRITERS’ VOICE 271—MARCH 20213 State Council News From the Secretary’s desk Resignation: Online Banking cont. from previous page FELLOWSHIP OF AUSTRALIAN Manuscript Assessment Service reminder to all branch treasurers/members using the nominee so, even if your branch hasn’t been meeting WRITERS NSW INC. online banking method to deposit their 2021 To the Secretary, FAW NSW A face-to-face since 2019, there may be a member who membership fees. Dear Maureen, �its the criteria for nomination this year (see page 2 Annual General Meeting Please ensure that your name/branch name appears in I wish to advise I will no longer be the FAW for the criteria). I look forward to branch committees, the ‘message’ section of the online payment advice. If this 10am, Saturday, May 1, 2021 Manuscript Assessor. I am now doing a lot of work con�identially, recommending a member for a 2021 is not included, it will delay the arrival of your receipt, for the Australian Society of Authors, including their Distinguished Service Award. at Campbelltown Arts Centre, membership card andWriters Voice while I make ‘�irst ten pages’ assessment and feel it is a con�lict of Lots to consider – please contact me on email 1 Art Gallery Road, Campbelltown NSW 2560. enquiries regarding ownership of the deposit. interest. I am imagining you have a member who – if you are interested Prior to this year’s AGM, the 2020 AGM will be held (as per Please also email details of your payment to Jackie will be more than willing to take it on. I appreciate in any of the above positions. We would certainly love Dept of Fair Trading guidelines). Laing, interim Membership Registrar. Jackie’s email is all the work you have been doing (especially the to hear from you. Please note: At the present time Covid-19 safety guidelines . only permit limited attendance.The State Committee will be branch newsletter). Maureen Kelly OAM Again, if Jackie is not aware of your payment it could allocated seven seats, which means there is only seating for Dr Rae Luckie delay the arrival ofWriters Voice. another 7 attendees.This, of course, may change before May Thank you for your kind co-operation. but should you wish to attend please register your interest NOW with Maureen Kelly Kay Bakon, Let’s keep this in mind… Rae’s contribution to the FAW over the years has FAW NSW Treasurer ELECTION OF OFFICE BEARERS been invaluable. She remains an Isolated Writer and FAW publicity keeping us connected All State Council positions will be declared vacant at the is a Professional Member of the Australian Society � �irst Publicity �lyer for 2021 has arrived in each meeting and new officers will be elected for the 2021/22 of Authors (ASA) and Institute of Professional Financial Members List Mmember’s ‘In Box’ and, hopefully, you all have your year. Any member who wishes to nominate a candidate for Editors (IPEd). �ingers tapping away on your keyboards preparing a office must complete a nomination form. Nomination and Rae was saddened that the FAW Walter Stone Life would like to take this opportunity to thank all centres story/stories to enter in this year’s free Seniors Card Proxy forms may be foundon the BACK of your bulletin’s Writing competition was discontinued but thrilled Iwho have sent me alphabetical lists of members who Short Story competition – that is, of course, if you are ADDRESS SHEET. to hear that Sandie Jessamine, who was short-listed have paid their fees for 2021. This has made my task of a senior? Nominations are sought for: in the �inal 2018 Walter Stone award, will have her ensuring that all members receive theirWriters Voice so The theme this year is:‘What’s age got do to with it?’ ● PRESIDENT bookBorderline mainstream published around April much easier. Treasurer Kay Bakon will issue your member numbers Well, plenty when you �ind it hard to get going in the ● VICE PRESIDENT this year. Rae did a professional assessment of the for this year but if I know who has paid, I can add them to morning because of those wretched aches and pains! ● HON. SECRETARY book, Sandie saying it was entering the Walter Stone my distribution list. It’s nothing to do with old age – it’s more about ● HON. TREASURER which gave her the con�idence to keep going! ‘maturity!’ However, the theme does give you great I have had three WV returned for December so if you ● MEMBERSHIP REGISTRAR Richard Yaxley was the Walter Stone Winner in scope to write up to 1,000 words with ease. Good luck. 2016, His entry, ‘Homecoming’ has formed part of know someone has resigned or moved please let me know. ● GENERAL COMMITTEE MEMBERS I would also urge you to write about your hobby or his latest novelHarmony (coming out in a couple of Happy writing for 2021. pastime and send off to Narelle – ‘Networking with Nominations will only be called for from the floor if there are weeks with Scholastic). Jackie Laing, Narelle’ – details p14, as well as sending in your poetry, insufficient written nominations received. Nominations Maureen Kelly Acting Membership Registrar short stories and anecdotes. must be made in writing, signed by two financial members and the proposed candidate. Our interim Membership Registrar, Jackie Laing is doing a great job. There’s nothing like a ‘baptism of Formsandproxyvotesmaybescannedandsentbyemailto �ire!’ Her takeover from Narelle Noppert went without , or mailed to: a hitch thanks to Narelle’s ef�icient record-keeping. Hon. Secretary, FAW NSW Inc. Dance Steps This information, however, is ever-changing, especially 3/91 Main Road cont. from page 1 McLarenVale SA 5171 at this time of year as your renewal details form the with resounding applause when he how to react. Then quite your talent. We both agree that it only – to be received no later thanApril 26, 2021. basis for the Writers Voice mail-out. introduced his Lead Dancers; Erica unexpectedly, Marcus called her into needs some emotion; some On a ‘list of suggestions for 2021’: For further information, phone the Hon. Secretary, FAW NSW and Jarryd. the of�ice. Why now though, before personality. Erica and Jarryd have (1) establishing a Long Service Award; Incon0417403720oremail “This show will be a success his talk to the extras, she thought, partnered many times; they’re (2) writing competition for Isolated Writers only to because of your calibre, commitment most unusual. excellent together. I know you see enter and and professionalism. From John and “Claudia, you’ve performed well in that. They are joining me for dinner (3) me, personally, I would like everyone to Expressions of Interest are sought for: myself, thank you all; our leads, our chorus. With time, you could become tonight as they announce their consider changing ‘Isolated’ Writers to‘Outreach’ (1) Manuscript Assessor due to the retirement of chorus and especially to our extras an excellent dancer. However, there engagement. I couldn’t be happier; Writers. I �ind the word ‘Isolated’ has taken on a very Prof Rae Luckie who’ve worked, waited and isn’t a place for you in this prod- having my best friend marry my different meaning since the outbreak of the Covid-19 (2) Poetry sub-editor due to the retirement of wondered. I’ll speak to you guys uction.” Claudia was silent. sister.” pandemic and would love to put the wheels in motion Shirley Goodbar shortly about availability.” “Your behaviour has not been Jarryd and his sister? My gosh I to change this. I am ‘testing the waters’ and would love Motionless, Claudia felt and professional with me, or with your missed seeing that, thought Claudia. (3) Appointment of an auditor for 2021/22. to hear from you regarding this and any other ideas observed a craziness everywhere. father. But hear me out please. Keep Continuing, Marcus requested. you may have – email me on If you, a family member or friend is a certi�ied auditor She’d not experienced this before. practicing. Learn from these mistakes “She would like to see you there. Why . and willing to examine our books we would love to hear Erica and Jarryd hugging and and dance yourself into the better don’t you take your �irst dance step; Finally, thank you for your amazing support of the from you. pirouetting non-stop. And she, person your father believes you really towards your best performance, by publicity �lyers I send out ‘keeping us all in touch.’ Please send your details to the Hon. Secretary on Claudia, incredulous but indecisive of are. Erica has told me she believes in joining us?” Maureen Kelly

4 WRITERS’VOICE271—MARCH2021 Website: fawnsw.org.au Website: fawnsw.org.au WRITERS’ VOICE 271—MARCH 20215 FAW Branch Reports BLUE MOUNTAINS FAW Literary Achievements pages. on 16th January. We shall miss our Pauline Walsh Award, due at the suddenly went into lockdown. So far I’ve said no, as I was keeping Kathryn Walls, after years of research little live wire. February meeting. President Maureene and Treasurer my options open, especially in the ��� you noticed how nimble our and rewrites has now published her We extend our best wishes to Phil Our February, 2021 meeting was a Catherine Smith had gone to consid- hope of having it published by a Hcountry has been in the face of �irst historical novel titled Perkins who has endured an return to our usual premises, erable trouble to make sure the traditional publisher. our recent challenges? Like everyone Tallawoladah: on the Rocks which is extensive hospital stay after surgery however, with signi�icant differences. meeting would be festive, despite Last week, I asked them to remove in our writers’ community, we available on Amazon Kindle as an e- went awry. Hope you are back with us In keeping with Covid-19 health restrictions. Sometimes, you just my name from their mailing list. After continue to adapt with creative book. Turn to the Members’ soon Phil. regulations, we all wore masks, used can’t win. I called back, they called me again responses to change. Wanting to Bookshelf page where Kathryn We look forward to another busy hand sanitisers, distanced ourselves Come January and again by just one twice, so I ended up blocking them. invite a larger group to our December describes her novel. and productive year as we compile, and brought all our needed drinks day, we were lucky to be able to hold Then there was this cautionary tale meeting and Christmas party, we Having had three successful edit and produce another anthology and snacks. Furniture was also our meeting, with a (belated) from Mrs D onGoodreads – decided to book a table at the writers, Pat Allen, Rosemary Baldry entitled School Days. cleaned for our meeting. Though our Christmas theme. All those attending . in person after a year where the 2021 competition. During our string in 2018. Carolyn Alfonzetti presented the We begin 2021 with a sense of If anyone would prefer to receive majority of our meetings were via February meeting we focused on the I am delighted to announce that results of her workshop on Microlit. optimism and renewed enthusiasm. noti�ications by e-mail, rather than Zoom. We also took the opportunity elements of writing a good short I am no longer the President, The winning entries were read out. Margaret Zanardo snail-mail, please contact me at to wish John Smith a happy 90th story referring author Joy Williams’ Secretary, and Treasurer. Kerrie Grant Burger’s entry was �irst with as birthday for the following week. John thoughts on the subject. We also Walker is our new Secretary and Eva Sally Maxwell, second and Karen mail deliveries are so slow, especially has been an active member of our revisited how to edit and approach Warren is our Treasurer. Thank you Lieversz was Highly Commended. ISOLATED WRITERS BRANCH in regional areas. group since 2010, has held various rewriting. Other tools not to be so much Ladies. Your help is greatly Congratulations to all. Welcome to all our new members who of�ices including President, Vice Carolyn Cash overlooked are free software such as appreciated. I shall stay on as Two workshops were presented joined in 2021 and those who have President, Publicity Of�icer and has Libre Of�ice which is compatible with President for the time being. with a possible theme of giving renewed their membership. served on the committee for many many platforms. It has spell check, practical advice to writers. The �irst I hope 2021 has been an LAKE MACQUARIE FAW years. John continues to delight us Jennifer Warren thesaurus and word count functions was presented by Laura Davis: ‘Going improvement on last year, and In December 2020 many of our with his writing. to help all writers. Dotty. Colons and Semi-Colons.’ everyone is staying safe, despite members gathered, in person for the We were saddened to hear news of Rosemary Baldry was recently EASTWOOD/HILLS FAW Explanations of the differences in the COVID-19 outbreaks in certain areas. �irst time in several months, for our the passing of former member and interviewed by Jean Kittson for the Though this report includes correct use of the colon and semi- Once again, the Seniors Card Short annual Christmas celebration. We past branch President, Ron Lyons. He Seniors’ Stories Volume 6 launch. December, 2020, we are now in early colon were given with highly useful Story Competition is seeking abided by all the necessary rules and was an integral part of Blue Entering the cavernous �ilm set at Fox months of 2021. Welcome to all and exercises to hone our skills. Ellipses contributions for Seniors’ Stories restrictions, of course, but still had a Mountains Writers from 2001 to Studios, she admitted to having an may this year prove to be quieter and (or dot, dot, dot ie …) were also Volume 7 from Thursday, 1 April, until great time. It was wonderful to catch 2012. Ron wrote short stories, elevated heart rate. Rosemary talks to less dramatic. explained. Did you know that it is 12 noon Monday, 31 May 2021. up, to share some Christmas-themed traditional poetry, haiku and us about the experience in the Our December, 2020 meeting was customary to use only three dots at This year’s theme is‘What’s age written pieces, listen to one of our limericks which he loved to share following pages [see page 13]. on Zoom. It was pleasant to see and one time? got to do with it?’ talented members on clarinet, and to with our group. Some of our Looking towards our March ‘catch up’ with friends. Elizabeth The second workshop, ‘Presenting It’s wonderful when receiving acquire some new reading material members re�lect on Ron’s life in the meeting we plan to read and offer Collins gave us her judge’s report on Your Work’ by Dr Anne Howard, was feedback – whether it is writing for our personal libraries (courtesy of following pages. critique of members’ Seniors’ Stories the topic of Magic Realism. This genre also highly practical. We were advised and/or your website. our traditional Secret Santa activity). Gathering in January, our for 2021 as they take up the challenge involves stories set in the real world to be careful in looking at and Recently, a friend said he was very January is normally the month committee set about making plans for to write to the theme of ‘What’s age with magical elements accepted by conforming to guidelines for compet- impressed with the website’s layout when members look back over what 2021. We realised the growth of our got to do with it?’ Many of us will also this world. The �irst placegetter, itions, how to set out poetry, use of and my article on the Battle of they have achieved in the previous membership has been sti�led due to attend the Seniors’ Stories workshop Kathryn Berryman, and second correct punctuation and spelling, Hastings. year and start thinking about their the restricted numbers permitted in the Blue Mountains with presenter placegetter, Grant Burger, read out word usage, fact checking of your I nearly fell off my chair when I plans for the forthcoming writing under the Covid-19 rules at our Jill Baggett. their winning stories. These were: own work: these were only some of received the e-mail and blown away year. This year we did this via Zoom. regular meeting room. So we cast Although our branch has made ‘Heads in the Clouds’ (1st) and ‘An the topics covered. We were also when he called. Naturally, most of us had not quite about for new options. Our local some plans for this year, we remain essential Clash’ (2nd). encouraged to read our work aloud He was asking who created my ticked off everything we had on our Springwood Sports Club has come to mindful that, as Robert Burns During theChristmas Break, (ie. so as to highlight possible errors. website as he was tossing up whether lists but we felt pretty proud about our rescue and offered us re�lected, even our best laid plans post the December, 2020 meeting and Thank you, everyone for an to do it himself or pay someone the number of things we actually had complimentary use of their meeting may go awry. If we have learned January, 2021) our members were enthusiastic start to 2021. $5,000 to remove the hassle and achieved. Members had published room. It is spacious, well equipped anything from 2020, we recognise the kept busy. The 2021 programme, frustration, by doing the work for him books, completed �inal or �irst drafts, with multi-media facilities, has lovely Helena Hamilton need to keep on our toes and respond which was discussed by the Comm- by setting it up. won competitions, and made quite a garden views and we will enjoy the creatively to change. ittee in November, 2020, was I think that is the question for most, bit of progress made towards their catering facilities of the club. Another completed and compiled. You are FOREST FAW including writers, whether to do the writing goals. One thing that example where a problem has Jeanette Temesvary welcome to visit our website and As writers, we should perhaps be job themselves or save time by members seemed particularly become an opportunity for new read the upcoming events, which list happy that we are living in interesting outsourcing to a professional. interested in tackling during 2021 thinking and solutions! CANBERRA®IONFAW our workshops, visiting speakers and times! However, these are also very Has anyone had any dealings with was understanding the self- At our �irst general meeting in This year we welcome two new competitions open to all. unpredictable times. Xlibris? If you sign-up to their e-mail publishing process – something we February we congratulated our members, Dianne Porter and Kerrie Some members worked diligently At Forest FAW we missed out on list, be prepared to receive calls trying hope to address, from various members on their recent successes Walker and farewell Barbara Horton on their entry for the in-house our December meeting by just one to persuade you to sign up to self- viewpoints, in the forthcoming year. which you can read about on the who suffered another stroke and died day, when the Northern Beaches publish. cont.next page…

6 WRITERS’VOICE271—MARCH2021 Website: fawnsw.org.au Website: fawnsw.org.au WRITERS’ VOICE 271—MARCH 20217 FAW Branch Reports Lake Macquarie to encourage a greater attendance at and ‘The Ming Test’ to English MUDGEEVALLEYFAW competition and an cont.from previous page our meetings this year. To accomplish Woman’sOwn. Congratulations, interested group in ‘novel this, we held a session called “Meet Victoria. We are hoping for an active year in writing’ will form in the With member numbers continuing the Writers” on Saturday 20th I have received a report from 2021. We are planning to host the middle of the year and to grow, our critique sessions are February at the Young Services Club. Macarthur member, Susannah Norman McVicker Youth Literary research the aspects to realise becoming ever more popular. At this event, members of the public Thompson concerning two books she Award for short stories and poems their goal … to write a novel However, as we run only two sessions were encouraged to meet members of has recently read, The Dry and Force once again, with entries open from … a huge undertaking which each month and as time available in the Lambing Flat Writers and to learn of Nature, both by Jane Harper. July to the beginning of October. is not for the faint-hearted any one critique session is limited we about our activities. We hope to Susannah says: “Both books feature Young people up to and including the but an exciting challenge for might need to turn our attention to encourage the good citizens of Young Aaron Falk, a detective, both books age of 18 years will be invited to those who are up for it. participate. As well as cash prizes this other ways of getting the feedback we and district to join our group and are centred around a crime, and both I’ve saved our best news Revesby Writers FAW farewell Carney Vaughan. L–R: Sitting need for our written pieces. then exercise their latent writing are set in Australian backgrounds. I year we are planning to produce a for last on this occasion was Robert Spencer, standing Joe Plaza, James Foster, It has been wonderful to see two skills. am predominately a city person, so to book of all prize winning entries and because it was an extremely Shirley Galloway, and John Rodwell. Sitting down with his trophy was Carney Vaughan, his wife Bev and Millie Mock. more of our members publish books We are planning a workshop in be made aware of the dangers of each entrant will receive a copy. exciting honour for our recently. Jan Mitchell’s Food for eyes, May, hosted by Professor Rae Luckie, drought and dense bushland, written Jill and Pamela are presenting a branch … we were nominated for an Needless to say Carney is still writing a valuable book offering practical on writing family histories. We hope about so vividly, was terri�ic.” writing workshop at Springwood and Australia Day Award in the what could be his fourth book. nutritional advice for eye health, was this will be a success and provide For my own part, I have been another at Katoomba on 28th and community category. We were invited Our February meeting was held on published just before the end of last valuable information to writers of reading non-�iction: Rome by Robert 29th March in preparation for the to attend our beautiful Arts Centre, Saturday 6th in our usual venue the year. Olga Korlevic, a newer member that genre. Hughes (full of amazing stories!), and 2021 Seniors Card Competition. This the Glasshouse, by our council to Macarthur Room with most members of our group, has published a The Lambing Flat branch of the Homo Deus by Yuval Noah Harari, will be the third year we have been receive our Certi�icate for the service there including a new writer in delightful children’s book,Little Lorie FAW usually meets at the Young with its challenging ideas about the involved with this very interesting we offer our residents. Jackie, our attendance. We received �ive apolog- had a farm. It contains ten stories Services Club from 5.30 PM to 7.00 future. project. Beautiful big books of the President, Raylene our Secretary and ies from our regular members. Each designed for children 3-6 years and is PM on the second Monday of each As our AGM is scheduled for this 100 best competition entries are I as nominee to represent us, member had a separate table and was beautifully illustrated by Julia month; except for December, when month, I will take the opportunity to published. A great way to preserve attended and felt honoured to be very well set out, thanks to Simon. Khmyrova. we meet for a Christmas function, and thank those who have served us so senior’s stories for the future. sitting among the excitement of those All our Committee Members from This February we were still holding January, when we take a break. Guests ably during a challenging year: Jill Baggett gathered when we were introduced last year were nominated and general meetings via Zoom, but were are always welcome and any President and Acting Treasurer, with the reason for our nomination to accepted. Simon Kaddissi our delighted to have a fantastic enquiries concerning the branch can Victoria Chie; Vice President, Cathy the short list. We were not President, organised the monthly presenter to join us on the screen. be made to me on 0413 827 217. Hobson; and Secretary, Kim Sami. PORT MACQUARIE HASTINGS disappointed when the Lake Cathie topics which were then voted by the Lauren Daniels, Director of the Peter Symes Your efforts on our behalf are greatly RFS took out the honour because like rest of our writing group. It has also Brisbane Writers Workshop and co- appreciated. My �inal words in our previous everyone else, we were truly thankful been recommended that we go back author of Winning Short Story Our inhouse bulletin, Inkblot bulletin ‘… trust that we can all return for their �ine effort during 2020 to having a 10-minute writing Competitions, gave a workshop on the MACARTHUR FAW (Victoria Chie, editor), has to our face-to-face meetings with our bush�ires. session, which we then read out to short story genre, its value to us as Once again, this year, our monthly reintroduced the idea of member �irst meeting in 2021’ did in fact Happy 2021 Everyone! members in attendance. It was always happen. writers (whatever our preferred meetings will take place at the pro�iles, in which people are invited Colleen Parker very interesting previously and can genre), and how we could turn out Campbelltown RSL Club. We are to write a summary of their lives as We did meet face-to-face but not in be challenging! stellar stories which might lead to grateful to the club for providing us they relate to their writing, a great our usual Meeting Room, rather we Madeleine Pizzuti has been success in competitions. We also with such pleasant and modern way for us to learn more about one drove about 60kms south to the REVESBY WRITERS FAW requested by Bankstown Library to touched on the interesting concept of premises – air-conditioned with another. Contributions in the way of delightful coastal township of It was with much regret at our last talk to school children about her motif in writing. coffee and cakes available downstairs, book and �ilm reviews, poems etc are Harrington to the home of one of our Christmas Luncheon on Saturday 5th recently published book entitled members who travels all that way Pam Garfoot as well as for their support through- also invited. Coincidentally, this December we had to say ‘Goodbye’ to BEAR during the next school holidays. out the pandemic. Thanks also to month’s edition contains a review by every month of the year. We wanted Carney Vaughan who decided to Madeleine is now working on her Secretary Kim Sami, for the vital work Paul Phillips of the �ilm, The Dry, to show our appreciation to her and retire from our Writing Group after fourth book and doing extremely well LAMBING FLAT FAW she has done liaising with the club. mentioned above. There is also a recognise some of the many sacri�ices more than twenty years’ service as with her writing. our members make to ensure their February saw the �irst meeting of the Our long-running in-house short wealth of advice on writing as well as our President and helpful writing Shirley Galloway Lambing Flat Writers for 2021. An story competition continues to be items of general interest. commitment to our branch. advisor. He was presented with an eager attendance at the Young well supported, the theme of the To �inish on a light note, Victoria We used the opportunity to Award for his many years of service Services Club worked through an current competition being ‘Haunted’. Chie tells me that the training course brainstorm ideas to include plenty of by John Rodwell the Revesby Workers SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS FAW agenda that addressed activities for I am still waiting for the spirit to provider, Knowledge Academy, has variety to write, read and critique this Vice President/Director and watched Membership: As COVID-19 the year and re�lected on last year’s take me. compiled a list of the best word rates year. We intend to invite a Presenter by all of our writing group members. requirements ease, members have successful writing competition. We Not so Kim Sami, who won �irst paid to living authors. At the top of or two, to hold a National writing Simon Kaddissi our President took been slowly returning to meetings. In looked at nuances of punctuation and prize in the Oran Park Parish Short the list is J K Rowling with earnings of competition, to research various the photograph. addition, we are still maintaining exercised our writing skills by Story Contest on the theme of ‘A Good 1,563.47 pounds per word on The genres and experiment with them, to The rest of our members were all contact via our web site for those presenting short stories we had News Story’, the title of her piece Philosopher’s Stone… not dif�icult, produce an anthology and welcome watching Carney holding his trophy members unable to attend meetings; written as ‘homework’ – an exercise being ‘A New Beginning’. really; just a matter of choosing the two new prospective members in for them to see. He has been members are encouraged to submit that was completed by all members. Good news, also, from Victoria Chie right words. February. So our year is looking very travelling up to Revesby from their work for uploading. President exciting indeed. Of course we will be We have recently welcomed a who has sold two more stories: ‘More Bernard Smith Thirroul for many years and sadly Greg Baker with his other, web couple of new members and we wish Fool Her’ toEnglish Woman’s Weekly, writing our short stories to submit decided it was time to give it away. manager’s, hat has been working to for Volume 7 of the Seniors Card cont.next page…

8 WRITERS’VOICE271—MARCH2021 Website: fawnsw.org.au Website: fawnsw.org.au WRITERS’ VOICE 271—MARCH 20219 FAW Branch Reports

Southern Highlands Baker, Uta, Greg Tome, Olive Spiers dec. cont.from previous page Ruth, Debbie, Pamela, Brian, Paula and Decima. and her inspirational keep everyone electronically Doug and Nellie did a words of wisdom and connected. We expect that meetings wonderful recitation of ‘To unwavering humanity in 2021 will continue to show an a louse’ by Robert Burns. were always delivered increase in numbers. Nellie wore a very in her own quiet way. Our monthly 100-word challenge decorative hat with a A homework piece was sitting on her desk has continued. The prompt for the louse attached and used At the Southern Highlands Christmas meeting. November meeting was ‘eating an her phone to make louse Left: Doug and Nellie. Right: Paula on the cello. the night she passed away, the topic apple’; ten members wrote pieces for noises. Paula played her was “Where will I be this time next sharing. We held over this challenge cello and managed to have members Meetings again included year”. Olive’s family has given us for our Christmas meeting and sing along to a variety of tunes. As the presentations by our members of permission to share her words here… resumed in February with a prompt conclusion to this festive occasion their written work. “A hard question to answer, for I from Nellie; she wanted us, Brian sang the song ‘Smile’ for us. Since our last report, our poet and have no idea. Who could have possibly hypothetically speaking, to provide Our February meeting featured cruciverbalist Greg Tome has created dreamed that 2020 would turn out the the title of our next published work member Pamela Waugh’s play writing four more challenging crosswords way it has? Drought, bush �ires, �loods Winners of the Sutherland SPARK competition with the president of Tradies Gymea and high school organiser of SPARK, Samantha Hill. and to write 100 words to promote it. workshop. Using her 10-minute play and, of course, solutions. Having and covid all came our way. Again these challenges exercised our ‘Those thorny Roses’ as an example, circulated a set of etymology I have dreams for the future, guidance of the Sutherland Shire FAW At the end of 2020 members of the minds and showed a wide range of she led us through the elements of a exercises before the February winning Lotto, writing a book and Festival Committee to hold the Sutherland Shire FAW also judged the approaches. This popular 100-word good play including plot, meeting, Greg talked us through the having it published, we all can dream. I Writers Unleashed Festival on SPARK competition for high schools �lash �iction challenge may be rested characterisation and, importantly, answers and then supplied new have been studying for years to enable August 21st 2021 at Gymea Tradies in Sutherland Shire. This competition in 2021 or perhaps be morphed into dialogue. Pamela explained how she activities to try for the March meeting me to use my imagination and come Club, Gymea. It will be an outstanding had over 70 entries and shows the an even tougher 50-word challenge. had come to write this piece and two [Crossword page 25]. up with a classic. I read and read and day with a full program for all depth of writing that students in the Chain Story. At our Christmas members, Kathryn and Jim, together Special interest groups. These are convince myself that I am studying–lol. attendees to see and meet with Shire are capable of. It was very meeting, Greg Baker read a synopsis with local actor Mark, performed the proving popular, with poetry and My biggest problem is procrast- various published authors. The impressive to read the entries. of the story so far, then read his �inal play; Pamela �ielded questions at the prose meeting being held at the Old ination. How do you overcome this ? audience will listen to a variety of Presentation of the winners instalment. The promised blood bath conclusion. The meeting decided that Post Of�ice Café in Moss Vale. Poetry Why, with discipline of course but do authors at the festival. The quality of happened in February 2021 at Gymea did not eventuate but Greg left us, like such workshops and other skill is held on the �irst Thursday of the you know what? I do not like rules and the presenters is very exciting. Tradies Club, Gymea. much �iction, with as many questions enhancing exercises would be a month and the prose gathering is on I think they are meant to be bent. Hopefully there will also be an Thank you to all the judges Sylvia as answers. Members who took up feature of the branch 2021 activities. the third Thursday of the month. I must make a greater effort I see opportunity for some attendees to Vago, Julianne Miles-Brown, Fiona this chain story challenge were Greg Ten-minute unseen written exercises These gatherings provide the but I am �inding that a little dif�icult at present their manuscripts to well- Johnstone and Helen Armstrong and Baker, Morag, Uta, Ingrid, Kathryn, were again included in our November opportunity to share work and the present time. known publishing houses and receive to the coordinators of the Decima, Sandy and Gail. The authors and February meetings. In November, receive positive and constructive Where will I be next year ? feedback. This is a very important competition for encouraging the were presented with a printed copy after a colourful and dramatic feedback. The Bundanoon Crash Test Do not know I fear, step in the writing process. Of course, writing development of young of the story with Sandy’s story title ‘A entrance, Paula supplied us with the Drama has continued throughout the Maybe I’ll be lined up at the all this depends on the pandemic’s writers in the Shire area. The future chain of events’; 2021 may yet beginning of seven Melbourne Cup pandemic. The format has been Pearly Gates, progress in containing it. of writing is in good hands. present the opportunity to begin a stories and also a list of cup horses as adapted to COVID-19 protocols with Waiting to meet some of my mates? A couple of the authors could be This year the FAW Sutherland Shire new chain story. prompts. In February, President Greg plays being videoed and made But do not despair, available on digital platforms. More will also be having guest speakers at Our November meeting included a Baker, having discovered an online available on YouTube. Course I’ll be here, news on the planning for the festival some meetings. The �irst speaker for For a while yet discussion of poetry. Words of random word generator, asked Greg Baker and Uta Purcel and the presenters will be available in the year will be in March with Alan wisdom from our poets included a members to write for ten minutes Too much to do before I forget.” the nextWriters Voice. Baxter speaking on speculative quote from an American poet saying using all three words ‘recover’, ‘smart’ Olive Spiers 2020. This year Sutherland Shire FAW �iction. Cost is $10 for visitors. that poetry is the history of the and ‘wisecrack’. STROUDFAW In true Olive style her last piece has a will also be publishing their next Anyone is welcome to attend. human heart. Our resident poet Greg Books members have been reading. A very warm welcome to Peter; very important message for us all. anthology on the theme, There is a plan to have other Tome suggested that the reader These included Uta reading A another published male has joined Don’t get tangled in the web of ‘undercurrents’. Our editor, Helen speakers at future meetings with our should not worry about what the poet thousand splendid suns by Khaled our ranks and we are really looking procrastination, don’t wait for Armstrong, has already started the vice president Christine Sykes is trying to say instead worry about Hosseini; Greg Baker The shapes of forward to hearing your stories and tomorrow, write that story now, editing process with members discussing her new book,Gough and one’s reaction to it. He said that to sleep by J B Priestly, Moon at perigee getting to know you. create the classic and publish that submitting their short stories. The Me, which will be launched in April. write poetry one needs to read poetry by George Johnston andExactly by As we welcome a new member, we book. After all “Tomorrow is never anthology will be launched at the One thing I have found in the last and aloud if possible. It was decided Simon Winchester; Greg TomeThe also bid farewell to a long term promised” (Walter Payton). Writers Unleashed Festival in August. year as I have tried to write different that one of our guest speakers in well by Elizabeth Jolley; Pamela, member. Meggz B ThePicture Book Competition stories is that procrastination is a real 2021 should be a poet and in the Jessica by Bryce Courtney; Sandy, Enid SadlyOlive Spiers passed away under the leadership of Sylvia Vago is issue, whether it is just watching meantime, members could perhaps by Robert Wainwright; Kathryn,Long unexpectedly on the 11th of in the planning stages. More Net�lix or Stan or reading other try their hand at writing some poetry. walk to freedom by Nelson Mandela; December 2020. SUTHERLAND SHIRE FAW information on dates of the people’s stories. I am really amazed Our December Christmas meeting Jim,The fall of the House of Byron by Olive joined Stroud Writers in 2021 has started and what a competition will be available soon on how writers can write at all. was excellently emceed by Ingrid and Emily Brand; and Uta,Too much lip by 2016 and has been a highly valued beginning it has been worldwide. the Writers Unleashed Festival Fiona Johnstone included poems, stories and readings Melissa Lucashenko. member of our group. She always Plans have been made by the website. Last year’s entries were from Ingrid, Kathryn, Pamela, Greg looked on the bright side of things Sutherland Shire FAW under the outstanding. cont.next page…

10 WRITERS’VOICE271—MARCH2021 Website: fawnsw.org.au Website: fawnsw.org.au WRITERS’ VOICE 271—MARCH 202111 FAW Branch Reports Interview WOLLONDILLY FAW WYONGWRITERSFAW Group. Jan and I took turns to provide Bush�ires: the event, outcomes, recovery, and the the group with details about Wyong Jeanette Temesvary talks to Blue Mountains ongoing effects. Hello All, Happy New Year to everyone. Let’s Writers, then to read short stories to FAW member Rosemary Baldry, who was one of The in�luence of COVID-19 on the creative process. We held the Launch of our branch hope 2021 will be less stressful than them. All in all, it was a successful four successful writers to be interviewed by Resilience: where it comes from, does it change over a AnthologyWollondilly Matters back last year. Who would ever have day, and Jan and I were both emcee Jean Kittson for the launch of lifetime, is there a type of resilience speci�ic to seniors. on 6th December 2020. Due to Covid- believed that one little virus could presented with a hand-made gift in Seniors’ Stories Volume 6. We thought you Adversity, trauma and tragedy. 19 restrictions we were only allowed spread so much disruption and might enjoy hearing about her experience. appreciation. Q:What was it about your story that Jean admired? to welcome 30 people to the Tahmoor misery? On the �lip side, it certainly Here at Wyong Writers, we were Inn back room for the launch at 11am gave us as writers plenty of fodder A: Jean said my story was powerful, moving and well more than thrilled to be able to get Q:I expect that you were already pleased to be one of 100 with lunch following. Congratulations for stories! written. She felt the emotion, trauma, tragedy and ups and back into our normal venue for our writers published. What went through your mind when you and thanks to everybody who made Wyong Writers ran a Pandemic downs as if she was there. She also liked that it was a January 2021 meeting, and the fact were contacted to do the interview with Jean Kittson at this a very proud day. Writing competition towards the end story about the community pulling together, helping and that we welcomed new members was Fox Studios? We are looking forward to the of 2020, with a �irst prize of $100. supporting each other. very gratifying. Our small original off- A: ‘Why me?’ was my �irst thought. I knew there would be Seniors Stories Volume 7 Competition The winner was Alison Ferguson, shoot critiquing group managed to Q: Being over 60 there would be many moments in life which is looming, as well as the free with her story ‘Covid Corpse’. The lots of good stories in the book and wondered why I had where your resilience may have been tested. Why did you keep going throughout 2020, and been selected to be interviewed. I also thought, ‘Jean workshops. judges looked for plot, when our President asked for choose the Blue Mountains bush�ires in 2013? We have booked a table each characterisation, con�lict, style, Kittson, wow! What a privilege to be interviewed by Jean.’ expressions of interest for a second And indeed it was! A:It was a story I had tried to write a few times since the month in the back room at Tahmoor mechanics, setting, and dialogue. group, hands went up 2013 bush�ires that devastated my street. The theme Q: How did you feel when you entered the Fox Studios? Inn for high noon lunch, with Using a point system, we found we enthusiastically. It seems Covid ‘Resilience’ gave me a different point of view. I thought Wollondilly Branch FAW meetings had a tie. So then we looked at doesn’t have a say as far as keeping A: Excited, nervous and overwhelmed. Fox Studios in about why our street not only survived but became following since March last year. We literary devices, descriptions and creativity down! Sydney are huge, occupying 32 acres which includes �ilm stronger, property values increased and people moved in will continue to do so until this ease of reading, which brought Our focus for January was Poetry. stages, sound studios, technical support, workshops, from out of area when it could have gone the other way. pandemic loosens its shackles enough Alison’s story narrowly to the fore. We had a guest speaker, Oriel Parker, restaurants, cafes and more. There was a queue getting I believe it was because of the community spirit, caring to enable us to get into our new The quality of writing was high, from the Central Coast Poets Society. through security, COVID checks and onto the site. I was and supportive neighbours. premises at Taara Gardens which made the judging an exacting Part of Oriel’s presentation was a wondering how we’d �ind the correct studio. Fortunately Q: In your interview you mention that writing makes you Community Hall at Thirlmere. task. Congratulations, Alison. section on Haiku, a Japanese style of security gave our taxi driver a map and the Senior Events We have not let this trying time A special mention must be given to “think”. Did the experience of writing your story give you poetry, usually (but not always) Of�icer from the Department of Communities and Justice new insights to the nature of resilience? sti�le our output. Our members (now) member Jessica Anscombe for written about the four seasons. We was waiting to greet us. A:Yes, very much so. As adults we help our children build creative stories and poems have been her successful inclusion in the long- have selected this style of poetry for Q: You mention the Green Room. Few of us would have sat resilience. We do the same with family, friends, work published in our monthly in-house list of winning stories for Furious our next in-house competition due in inside there, was it really green? Did you feel like a colleagues, and others. Writing ‘The Phoenix’ made me magazine calledScribblings . We Fiction for November, 2020. March 2021, and Oriel was gracious celebrity? think about the resilience of a community and I realised conduct gentle critiques and simple Considering the popularity of the in giving us hints and examples, so A: Sorry to disappoint you but the Green Room was not that part of resilience is helping others and also accepting writing exercises at our meetings contest, over 1,100 stories members got a better grasp on what green. It was light and bright, quite a large room with a help, being in an awful situation together and working which has helped our learning internationally, this was no mean feat. to write. She also gave Wyong Writers kitchenette at one end, tables arranged in the middle of through that for the good of all. It also made me think experiences enormously. This competition is particularly a folder she had put together on ‘Ta-Ra’ and ‘Hoo-Roo’, dif�icult in that the time frame is so the room with suitably spaced chairs to meet COVID about adversity, trauma and tragedy. While these are different forms of poetry to keep as a requirements. I wouldn’t say the room made me feel like a Jean E-D Mills,Pandemic President, short, the word length also short and challenging they are part of life, can give you a different reference. Many thanks go to Oriel for celebrity but the staff from the Department of Wollondilly branch distinct criteria have to be included. perspective and even enrich your life. her great presentation and Communities and Justice certainly made me feel special. Well done, Jessica. generosity. Q: Your husband Roger accompanied you. What was his Also, in November 2020, member Q: Can you describe the �ilm studio for us? impression of the day? Below: Wollondilly Anthology Launch. L–R: 2021 is lining up to be a busy year, Jan Forrester and I had the pleasure with topics such as Pitch/Synopsis, A: My strongest memory of the studio is heavy black A: Rog loved it! He particularly enjoyed chatting to the Deputy Mayor Michael Banasik, President Jean of being guest speakers for the Mills, Anthology Coordinator Narelle Noppert Copyright, Editing, Family History, YA curtains, bright lights, lots of cameras and technical gear authors in the Green Room and found them interesting and (with book) and Mayor Robert Khan. Wyong Neighbourhood Discussion Fantasy, Place and Time, Travel and Jean’s warm welcoming smile. The photo on the cover articulate. He was delighted to be invited into the studio Writing, Romance and Crime on our of Seniors’ Stories Volume 6 was enlarged and formed the when I was being interviewed and was fascinated with the agenda. We had a guest speaker for backdrop in front of which were two chairs facing each technical side of that. An experience not to be missed! Poetry, as mentioned previously, and other, a pot plant behind each chair and a table and glass Q: Will you be entering the Seniors Stories Competition have more guest speakers for of water beside each chair. There were rugs on the �loor again in 2021? Romance, Family History, Pitch/ and a low table holding copies of the book. A: De�initely. 2020 was my �irst experience of Seniors’ Synopsis, Copyright, and Place and Q:I understand that the YouTube video is just a snippet of Stories and I’m keen to repeat that and encourage others Time set to talk at future meetings. As your conversation with Jean Kittson. How did she put you at to do the same. Seniors have amazing stories that when this goes to Press, negotiations are ease and what topics did you discuss? told enrich life for all. underway to secure more guest A: Jean is a people person and easy to talk to. It was like Well, I will be eager to read your next story Rosemary! speakers for the remaining topics. talking to a friend. She asked thought provoking From all at Wyong Writers, we I know we are encouraging all our seniors at Blue questions. Mountains FAW to enter. Thanks for chatting with me. wish you the very best for 2021, and We talked about writing and storytelling: why it’s hope those creative juices keep important, the process, my writing journey, writers that You can watch Jean Kittson interview Rosemary here: �lowing. have in�luenced me, how writing helps in breaking down Kindest Regards, stigmas and stereotypes… Contributed by Jeanette Temesvary, Patricia Webb Blue Mountains FAW

12 WRITERS’VOICE271—MARCH2021 Website: fawnsw.org.au Website: fawnsw.org.au WRITERS’ VOICE 271—MARCH 202113 Vale Networking with Narelle LAURIE BOOKLUCK ello, I was initiated into the show world and absolutely Years passed and my dogs lived their lives-always Sutherland Shire branch member HIt is hard to believe we are so far loved it. I travelled to all the country shows, mostly home companions who just happened to be show dogs, ny strong organisation is dependent upon its into the new year. Hope a better one agricultural shows where, along with dogs, all manner of not the other way round like in some places, where they Afoundation pillars and the FAW is no exception. all around. farm animals, crafts and local produce were exhibited. were treated simply as commodities-and we enjoyed Laurie Bookluck from Sutherland branch passed in I started the year with positive I amassed an impressive camping kit and some great our mutual companionship whilst going to shows, September along with decades of FAW history but creations, picking up an old leadlight, friends and their varied dogs. It was a great way to spend camping and having fun. thankfully, some of which he shared with me when dresser door and giving it new life on time, meeting your friends at the various shows, In between, we rescued a lovely �ive year old female I called for submissions to our planned Centenary book the front of a box my bar fridge stands arranging where next to get together. Bully named Jessie. She was pedigreed and registered in 2028. Narelle Noppert on. Chloe became Australian ChampionGilavon Gellion and with the Canine Council, but never saw the inside of the Laurie was a very proud member because his father I cleaned, repaired, painted, shortly after she attained her title, I decided to become a show ring, being used solely for breeding. Most of her was so in�luential in our organisation’s formation days added a new handle, then making a registered breeder and a search for a worthy stud dog for puppies had been, quite illegally, attributed to other back in 1928. �it I was more than pleased with. her was launched. Chloe produced six puppies, one of females, unfortunately highlighting one of the shadier In 1938, the Fellowship of Australian Writers I didn’t know it was to be my last which became Verity(Aust. Ch. Eddystone Xcelsior), who aspects of the dog showing world. We took her home project for some time! lived with me for all her 10 years. Sadly, Chloe died just and gave her the best two and a half years of her life, as amalgamated with the Writers Association which had Now, anyone who knows me, before her fourth birthday from acute renal failure, then sadly she succumbed to cancer, aged only seven and developed into an extremely active body. The FAW knows the creations I enjoy having a prevalent in the breed. I was devastated, but at least I had a half. through inactivity was falling into decay. A meeting of go at using all sorts of materials and her daughter. Our next potential show dog was Daisy(Stardom the joint membership was called and the amalgamation tools. So you would think if I was to Verity was a stunner to look at but was very dominant Silver Dollar), an all-white small build Bully, who put through. The united body took the name Fellowship do myself an injury, it would be and, in the wrong hands would have been a lethal weapon, developed juvenile arthritis at the age of six months. of Australian Writers. Katharine Prichard and Roderick doing one of my beloved DYI so not willing to put her in strangers’ hands, I kept her. This, of course, stopped her show career even before it Quinn the poet, were made patrons. The executive projects, WRONG. With me she was a sweet and loving girl, but not many began. She became our ‘special needs’ girl, living with committee sparkled with leading names of the January 18th, I tripped on a quilt others saw that side of her. About this time I went into her disability well into old age, dying at 12½ years. She Australian literary �ield. Laurie’s father was made one of I was pulling off the line… tripped, partnership with a friend and fellow exhibitor, co-owning was a wonderful friend and funny as they make them. the four vice-presidents who writes about how he found tried to save myself going further into its folds and falling a white medium/ heavy female named Jordan(Aust. Ch. Next came Esther(Aust. Ch. Stardom Sterling Silver) much pleasure, in the companionship of his writer head �irst onto the concrete. After an Ambulance trip and Bracklyn Bright Star). She was the comedic foil to Verity’s who, although we didn’t know it when we brought the friends, and in the social gatherings of the Fellowship – a night in hospital, scans and X-rays, I came home black more serious personality, but they hated each other at little demon home, was to be our last show girl; our last the cocktail parties, the monthly ‘socials’, the meetings and blue with a broken arm. Tough head I think! So �irst sight and after their one and only �ight had to be kept Bully. Essie was funny and smart, but quite dif�icult to of members. hopefully our wonderful editors will correct any of my apart from that time on. show. She wasn’t interested in treats or the other dogs, He was particularly, delighted in the company of one handed typing errors; a whole new skill there. I’ll Over time my bullies won many Challenge certi�icates, being happy to snooze in her crate. Her �irst show was at Marjorie Barnard, Flora Eldershaw, Frank Dalby Davison keep you updated. Best of Breed and Best of Group ribbons and even sported Milton, in dreadful 42 degree heat, but she did well. and Miles Franklin. The quick reactions of those brilliant My guest, from my branch, is Kerry Joseph. Kerry is a some wins at the Royal Easter Show, and I enjoyed the Better than me, actually! Her illustrious show career intellectuals, the erudition and discernment of their relatively new member, but produces many great items thrill of it all. The best part was, we still had fun, even on came to an end when she was �ive years old, due more to conversation, stimulated his cognitive faculties. He came for our monthly magazine. Her enthusiasm is infectious. the days we were unsuccessful and came home empty my work hours than anything else. She didn’t care. Kerry is a dog lover, has written many stories about their handed. My favourite memory of showing Esther was at Yass, to love Marjorie Barnard dearly, for her softness and antics, and was an exhibitor of English Bull Terriers. where we camped overnight. As I made up my camp bed generous nature. I hope you enjoy her story. for the evening, having showered and fed us both, I saw Laurie’s love of poetry and ‘tongue in cheek’ style of To keep this column alive please email your feedback or that my bed had been taken over! some of them, gave an insight into his wonderful sense photos and interest to That night the two of us snuggled together, zipped up of humour and his memoir will be archived for See you again in June 2021. like sardines. She was a puppy all her life, never quite generations to come. Narelle growing up and constantly creating havoc with her One of the strongest pleasures received from serving devilish sense of fun. Esther succumbed to heart disease on the State Committee is the opportunity of meeting so shortly before her 12th birthday, three years ago. many of our fabulous members whether in person, or on Jessie (left), Daisy (above) and I didn’t love any one of my Bullies more than the the phone. Hon. Secretary’s recent remark, ‘I found Exhibiting Beautiful Monsters Esther (below). other, but among the strong personalities of them all, Laurie, warm extroverted and funny full of knowledge in hilst not active anymore, for some were larger than life and they were Chloe and fact a great bloke! I was always happy when he phoned Wmany decades I was a keen Esther. My �irst and my last. me which was often. Condolences to Anita and family’. exhibitor of English Bull Terriers. There are no Bull Terriers living in my house now. ‘Tales from Clarence Street’ (where the original F.A.W. I was a resident of Port Macquarie Like their rescue companions they shared their lives used to be) and ‘How I received the d.c.m.’* (Once I held with, their time with us has passed and a couple of when I met a couple who were active a valued position as cleaner to the Fellowship of rescue greyhounds keep us company today. in the world of dog showing, with Australian Writers room.) are just two of Laurie’s poems I love them both but they will never replace the Dobermanns their main interest. that he submitted to me. I was dogless at this time but my wonderful years I spent living with and showing my *d.c.m. was ‘don’t come Monday’ a slang used when a new friends convinced me a canine beloved Bull Terriers. worker was sacked. companion would be good for my Kerry Joseph Kerry Joseph I join with Maureen Kelly and all members who knew soul. They were right, and I �inally opted for an English Bull Terrier. Her house name was Chloe, and she was born Laurie in offering our condolences to Anita on the sad at one of the top Bull Terrier kennels of the day (Gilavon loss of one of Australia’s true-blue funny ‘blokes’. Kennels, Catherine Fields). I fell in love with her, �inding With fondest memories her intelligence, loyalty and humour irresistible. Colleen Parker

14 WRITERS’VOICE271—MARCH2021 Website: fawnsw.org.au Website: fawnsw.org.au WRITERS’ VOICE 271—MARCH 202115 Poets Voice Poets Voice Winter Song To A Teacher Release Infants School Playground Ordinary Days When fields lie fallow under an eiderdown The clinging hand Quick quick slow of frost and fog and ice. Quick quick quick slow Break Away Like a plague of mice they scamper We have crept out of our caves I once pried loose from mine Where watery sun peers through leaden, sombre sky. The irregular pa�ern repeats. in all directions away from Zoom meetings and trusting - placed in yours My little child you prattle on When dark night closes in and street lights dim Moments of calm, Their laughter home-made coffee now holds the future in its palm. Moments of fear. your words I try to hear, garlanded by coils of mist. squealing washing-up The frightened eyes but in my mind another voice Winter Song comes deep and rich and true. Imprisoned in this cage is calling sweet and clear. create moments sealed off take-aways I vainly dried of bone and flesh from on the first morning When all is stripped bare go deep into the wood when last goodbyes were said Reminding me of myriad things A body so weak, a soul in pain. envy fright spite after the stroke of the designated midnight search out the dry logs of life’s chances lost and past. gaze past today and seek tomorrow. Wai�ng, wai�ng of grass and birds and trees, from any sense of care Kindled with sticks of the games of life In hope of release into a coffee shop The feet, unwilling, that I led of waterfalls and glistening rocks The sight of their hats and the crumpled papers of life’s plans gone awry Which never seems to come. (no more than ten people seated) time and again to your door (oh please be quiet – please!) with wide floppy brims Winter Song builds a fire, use hand sanitizer first and no cash now stride with confidence A monotonous metronome I’m held a captive in this bus as much as their subtly varied uniforms where ashes fall and embers glow Set in mo�on to sit on a chair at a disinfected table through a lifetime. by circumstance – and you, brand them as tribal members be served a cup of flat white with crema harbingers against the hoary days. From birth, a heart that beats but thoughts are free and can escape In adult life will they remember Forging all broken, shattered things The young hearts Now so broken near distanced friends Hands cruelly rewound. out where I want them to. this purity in fierce energy and strangers. We smile refined and strong and new. innocent and fresh the minds absorbing Here again, it comes I know Your words are bouncing off my ears this uncritical acceptance of life? in turn at them all and chat When days grow short and memories long all you said and did Hurry, hurry, I await your call! I can’t grasp what you say If only there were some machine renewed. heartbeats metronome counts down the hours. go armed with what you taught them Quick quick slow ‘cause in my mind I’m running free able to freeze such moments Where from the embers and the ash Quick quick quick… stop. None of us thought that we’d miss into adulthood. in hills far, far away. fossilise aspects of adult lives the habits of ordinary days Winter Song stokes the fire within Ingrid McCulloch Rhonda W Rice© 1996 Rhonda W Rice © 1970 inside the resulting ice. so much. crackling and roaring into life, setting fire to ice. FAW Southern Highlands FAW Ingleburn NSW FAW Ingleburn NSW Greg Tome, Wendell Watt, When illuminating beacons breach dark night Southern Highlands FAW Moocooboola FAW soaring flames sing Winter Song strong and clear and true. © Jennifer Haynes, Lambing Flat (Young) FAW NEW POETRY EDITOR REQUIRED Shirley Goodbar has resigned from the position of honorary Poetry Editor, effective Hedgerows Encounter Cold Case Shifting Goalposts from this March 2021 issue. Hope Each June she’s remembered. An encounter in a long-ago time. In a place of much renown Disappeared at eighteen The goalposts all shifted through most of last year. Shirley says,“I have done my best these six is a tree Frail memories still know. It was brief and wonderous, albeit in a red-stained beach town but hope remains eternal But regardless of that, a new year is here. or so years, and now, at 90, I think I should standing tall Who are you her Father tested June 6th? Of the sodden young man very late at their door for the one left behind. So now we’ve a choice – step right or step left pass it on to someone else. I thank you for sprouts I was dropped last evening. An American paratrooper. Lost. Unable to find our War The longing‘to know’ to outsmart those goalposts that left us bereft. your consistent assistance and your of new growth Then you are so welcome said Father. We knew we’d need help in the long run if he fulfilled his life’s dreams friendship. It’s been a wonderful experience on charred limbs We’ve prayed to meet you. Much more of Mr Hitler and we’ll all be undone. or met an early demise? I’d like to kick goals and to do this, I must and a valuable one.” believe in myself and in doctor’s – place trust – Hope Cold Case has reopened Would any poetry afficionado like to He had been blown off target. Shaken. No direction. Numbness. Already lost friends as they are the ones who are keeping us well. is the sapling tree and with the availability volunteer? The role involves vetting and Papa said Daughter be quick. With clothes food and drink. On him you must tend We should do as we’re asked, not rant, scream or yell. untouched Her eyes down on approach, then up to him. Shyly. A tired face smiled right back of DNA Testing, compiling member contributions by flame considered suitable for publication and First landing. I am most fortunate to find you. Through those hedgerow tracks will he be found in an So, I’ll be home for a conference that’s zooming me in, Hope sending them in by the quarterly deadline. Roosevelt and Churchill miscalculated some. We’ll not let that take us down aged care facility I’ll read all those books that I’ve yet to begin. the blade of grass Weather was bad. They’ll work it out. I can just imagine Churchill’s frown. or a mortuary amongst I’ll be planning my trips for the year twenty-two, Meanwhile, until we have a replacement, in blackened soil skeletal remains? I’ll follow the rules – and no doubt I’ll get through. poetry contributions for this page in future the gentle She understands Encounter. It’s to run into, be up against, come across. Meet face to face A sister’s heartache of 62 years issues can be sent to theWriters Voice editor soaking rain She caressed every meaning. When she looked at him. This unexpected paratrooper ace But what should I do so I know I’m on track? wanting only‘to know’ . Hope He drank more. Taking French bread. He reasoned a moment while touching her hands Perhaps just look forward with no turning back? where not why? Please provide author name and FAW the china teapot I’m now in Normandy. But why? Ah, I recall. Roosevelt said we must all take a stand Continue to try and live life day by day. Lyn Yates branch, and remember that poems accepted in the wreck Papa is leaving. Eat. Get sleep young man. There’s tomorrow. Then we’ll all talk Don’t sweat the small stuff, know things are okay. Lambing Flat (Young) FAW for publication under the‘Poets Voice’ of a burnt-out home Not a soldier, the man. Saw what she felt. Hats off to Papa silenced his thought. So, if I’m rejected, I’ll not get upset. banner will be deemed to have been If I miss out on grants, well, there’ll be no regret. Hope the sound of chooks Boats also came. Atop rough bloodied waters, and below. Much loss trying to turn the tide published and therefore are not eligible for scratching Generals Dwight and Monty ensured its success. Time called it a victory. For the right side For I tried and got in there and just had a go. entry in FAW competitions. And that’s kicking goals in this great writing show. in an unburnt vegie patch The measured purpose-built encounter turned a War. Releasing an interval for all to grieve We hope to publish contact details for a new Hope History says epic encounter. Halting one man’s insatiable quests for all the wrong needs So, during the year, I’ll be pleased if I write, Poetry Editor in June issue. Poetry lovers, the people Meeting again. Hand touches, face to face. Within the hedgerow tracks after the War and if I am published – I’ll probably skite! help us to keep this page going. going back Brief and indeed wonderous. Moments soothing the recall. Of the atrocities they saw. But if every day brings back those goalposts that shift. Any takers? to start again. I’ll look on good health as a wonderful gift. Kaye Christensen, Port Macquarie-Hastings FAW Many thanks Shirley, for your time and Eileen Dillon-Smith Caroline Tuohey, Griffith Riverina FAW assistance in this role. Eurobodalla FAW Ken Driver, Writers Voice Editor.

16 WRITERS’VOICE271—MARCH2021 Website: fawnsw.org.au Website: fawnsw.org.au WRITERS’ VOICE 271—MARCH 202117 Roundup

2021 Australia Day Awards BARGAIN BOOKS FOR SALE Vale CERTIFICATE FOR COMMUNITY SERVICE CATEGORY Christine Sykes, Sutherland FAW FOR GIFTS OR SELF INDULGENCE RON LYONS �������������� to members past and present in thePort Vice-President, Travel in your armchair across Australia. Macquarie Hastings branch which was short-listed in 2021 for its e were saddened to hear news C won the fiction See the beauty of our landscape 43 years of community service. that Ron Lyons had passed away prize from Society andthemightofouroceans. W Our January 2021 branch meeting in Harrington at member, Kaye on 22 January 2021. He was a former of Women Writers Christensen’s home, proudly celebrated the honour with the members CONTRASTS / TRAVELLING VERSE / FLORAL LANDSCAPE member and past branch President of for her novel,The and thank everyone from its inception in 1978–2021. $10.00 per copy to ANZ A/C 641341665 and BSB 013 701. Blue Mountains Writers FAW from Changing Room. 2001–2012. Ron wrote short stories, FOLIO FORMAT traditional poetry, haiku and Stories and Plays published in the A4 size. limericks which he loved to share with us. Ideal for Amateur Drama groups / Senior Citizens We have received emails from Recreation Days / Disability workshops. members with personal recollections CENTRE STAGE: 10 One-Act Plays $20.00 of Ron and his contribution to our FOLIO OF FIVE: Murder Mysteries (five). group. They also refer to another well TitleIt’s Murder She Said $15.00 loved and respected member, the late COFFEE TABLE TALES: A collection of 9 short stories $15.00 Joan Vaughan-Taylor, a poet… ‘Like the thought of he and Joan LOVE REIGNS: A collection of 44 love poems $15.00 having some good chats. Brings back Contact Joan Lane memories too of committee meetings or Tel 0484 504 334 at Ron and Beryl’s kitchen table‘.Kate Santleben. ‘I’m sorry to hear this news, I enjoyed Ron’s work’. Susan Robinson. ���� � ���� celebrated the anniversary in November of ‘Ron was president not long after My good friendHazel Phillips, Pthe �irst edition (1993) of his magazine for writers, I joined FAW. And I remember Ron our past Literary Awards lunch FreeXpresSion. The magazine is now in its 28th year of loved trains, having worked with them guest whom many of you met, publication and is also distributed in an online, interactive for many years. He was quite generous sends greetings. Latest photo format for subscribers. by letting me accompany him to the from Hazel now in her early 90s, The March supplement ofFreeXpresSion features Africa. FAW meetings in town and we had lots taken on her birthday. There are some interesting views expressed by writers of good conversations about writing. Trevar Langlands from many African nations. Apart from the interesting poetry, the links I was fond of Ron and he let me see provide much more information about the history, geography, social, �lora through the window of his passion for Port Macquarie Hastings Australia Day Community Service Award. and fauna and life in general about this often overlooked continent. poetry. I’m sorry he has passed, but BACK ROW: L-R Walter Van Hoorn, Treasurer; Brian Tolagson, Vice President. I think he and Joan will be setting up MIDDLE ROW: L-R Emma Gaulton; Kathy Robison; Colleen Parker, Publicity; Kaye Christensen. FRONT ROW: Raylene Austin, Secretary and Jackie Laing, President, holding our new writers’ meetings in a quiet Australia Day Award Certificate. corner of heaven. RIP Ron xx.’ RESULTS: LAMBING FLAT COMPETITION 2020 Annette Brown. National Cherry Festival Writing Competition ‘Ron was a band master and had a Lambing Flat FAW branch: Celebrating 38 years at Young 1982–2020 sense of rhythm which he taught me. I remember him sitting at meetings ADULT SHORT STORY SECTION Canberra and Region Anthology tapping out the rhythm on the table First Place:‘Mad Molly’,Jenny McLoughlin, Arundel, QLD when members read poetry. His Call for Submissions shirewritersfestival.weebly.com Second Place:‘Menopaws’,David Dodd, Sapphire Beach, NSW limericks were fun and he happily ������� ��� R����� FAW members, past and present, are invited to Highly Commended:‘I Mean’,Colin Campbell, Holt, ACT shared the secrets of limerick writing Csubmit two items for inclusion in our anthology entitled‘School Days’. Highly Commended:‘How Did That Happen’,Janice Williams, Stawell, VIC with our group. I also remember Short stories are limited to 2,500 words and poetry to 50 lines. Commended:‘Layers Of Conflict’,Janice Williams, Stawell, VIC committee meetings at his home and Commended:‘Arthur’s New Diggs’,Narelle Noppert, Picton, NSW Entries to be submitted by 30 April 2021. one evening when we arrived to a Its aim is to re�lect personal experiences of schooling as a student or ADULT POETRY SECTION freshly cut lawn in which Ron had staff member. First Place:‘Feeding Time’,David Campbell, Airey’s Inlet, VIC mowed a message to his wife, ‘Ron This anthology will be launched at the University of Canberra to Second Place:‘Epitaph To Democracy’,Robert Winston, Mitchell’s Island, NSW loves Beryl’. Rosemary Baldry. coincide with the 25th Anniversary of the Australian National Museum Short Story Highly Commended:‘Between Two Wars’,Colin Campbell, Holt, ACT A lovely way to be remembered. of Education in October 2021. submissions open Highly Commended:‘The Great Unravelling’,Pippa Kay, Hunters Hill, NSW We offer our condolences to Ron’s Inquiries to Jenni Warren (President) from 1st April Highly Commended:‘Platform One’,John Egan, Ashfield, NSW family and friends. Commended:‘Saltwater People’,Catherine Lee, Mona Vale, NSW . Phone 0408 434 954 or 02 6293 2120. fawnsw.org.au Blue Mountains Writers FAW Please leave a message and Jennifer will call you back. Commended:‘Beset By Dire Strait’,Terry Norwood, Bowral, NSW Commended:‘Another Dawn’,Brenda Joy, Charters Towers, QLD

18 WRITERS’VOICE271—MARCH2021 Website: fawnsw.org.au Website: fawnsw.org.au WRITERS’ VOICE 271—MARCH 202119 ELCOME again to theNEVER ENDING STORIES Never Ending Story Wpage. Short Story Covid still hasn’t let us get back to normal but BEN’S STORY Maureen, Narelle and I have been busy with our stories.We hoped other members would join in but WHY AREWE HERE? by Narelle, Jill and Maureen you’ve all been very quiet. By Vera Zegarac “I’m innocent, I’m innocent. I know nothing!” Ben yelled We have been sending our stories to sites inda took a seat in a secluded spot near a window and Men get �ickle, and it’s easy to lose them if we let over and over as the PCs pushed him into the back seat of advertising for content and are very thrilled checked her watch. The café Paradiso was buzzing with ourselves go,” she shut her compact, smiling unpleasantly. Kyabram Town Hall Writers are publishing our story L the police car and drove him to the Port Fairy lock-up. Sunday brunchers. “I’m not sure what you mean.” ‘The Pink Cushion’ in their International Women’s When the waiter came to take her order, she said she The sergeant shoved Ben into the interview room. Ben Day anthology. Amanda took a long gulp of her water. “I saw Martin, was waiting for a friend, and he moved to another table. yesterday afternoon.” She put down her glass and stared pulled away from him, responding with an angry, We are now on the way to having written 25 stories. belligerent look. He �lopped down onto the wooden chair Most are between 5000 and 10,000 words but here What does she want? Linda mused, chewing on the at Linda with glee in her eye. looking at the meagre surroundings. It was a dark, is one of our earlier ones of 1000 words. We hope inside of her mouth. Waiting, she focused on the street, “Where?” depressing room. Old-style timber walls, chairs and a you enjoy it and feel inspired to start a group with spotting Amanda—�ifteen minutes late. “At the Town Hall.” table which, if it could talk, could probably tell a milliard other writers. Wearing a �loral dress in hues of blue, Amanda walked “You couldn’t have,” Linda said tersely. chilling tales! It’s fun, believe me. I love the feeling of expectation con�idently in her stilettoes as if she was born wearing “What do you mean I couldn’t?” A short time later Detective Mark Whitehead came in, when I turn the computer on of a morning them. She guarded her face against the sun with a broad- “Martin’s in Melbourne.” introduced himself, sat down, dropping a folder on the wondering if it is back to my turn and finding out rim hat and the inevitable Prada sunglasses. As she “I’m sure it was Martin walking with a tall blonde table. what the characters have been up to since I last entered the café, she looked around, so sure that Linda woman—I thought it must be you, but no…” Amanda “Ben Miller?” the detective established, opening the pressed“send”. would already be there. broke off and cast her eyes over Linda, a sneer on her face. folder ready to question him. Jill Baggett “Hi Linda,” she said. Acting like her lateness didn’t “The woman he was with was beautiful. And I know “Yes, but I don’t know why you have me here? I keep matter she drew the chair and sat opposite Linda. Martin. Too well actually, if you remember,” Amanda telling them I am innocent, I swear!” “You are late,” Linda returned with an edge. persisted. The detective studied Ben’s face. He had years of “Did you leave the café together?” “Sorry.” “How could I forget that?” experience, and there was something about Ben that “I got up and paid the bill but as I turned to leave she “It’s been a long time since we’ve seen each other. It “I know what I saw, Linda.” made him feel he was innocent. He didn’t know what it started yelling at me, said I was just a creep and should be surprised me when you called,” Linda said. “No, you don’t. I took Martin to the airport a day before was, but his instincts were often right. ashamed of myself. It was embarrassing and I hurried out “Not exactly. I mean, I saw you the other day. Didn’t I?” yesterday, spoke to him when he arrived, and he called “Settle down Ben, we just need to get to the bottom of and went down the road. She started following me, calling Amanda took off her sunglasses. Linda scanned the last night to tell me that the project he’s been working on this. Julia Kelly is missing and you were the last one to me all sorts. I saw a car pull up beside her and she botoxed landscape in front of her shielded with perfect for six months has been approved. I’m so proud of him.” have seen her.” Ben wriggled in his seat but settled down stopped to talk to the driver. I thought it must have been makeup. Amanda’s forehead reminded her of a plasma Amanda was quite seething with the anger that had once he felt the detective’s calming approach. someone she knew.” screen, her plumped lips of a gold�ish. She thought about never been too far from the surface since Martin had “How long have you been in town, Ben?” He questioned. “What make of car? Think carefully,” Detective the time Amanda must spend on such perfection, which dumped her for Linda some years earlier. Filled with “I arrived last week, it is true I had come to meet Julia. Whitehead interjected. would beg for more time to remove it before bed. Makeup jealousy and hatred she’d come uninvited to disrupt their We have been talking on social media for some time, we “I’m not sure, I was too anxious to get away from her, was something Linda rarely used, just a dab of lip gloss church wedding. It didn’t work. After the ceremony, Linda arranged to meet, but at a safe place, a safe place,” he dark blue or black, medium sized…” and a touch of blush on the apples of her cheeks. and Martin’s guests had ignored her, some laughing, as repeated in a convincing voice. “How many occupants?” “Where? Where did you see me?” she scurried to her car like a mouse running from a cat. “Okay, settle down Ben, what place, day, time were you “Two I think, I didn’t take much notice.” “Oh, Linda, it doesn’t matter, does it?” “This is not the end of it, Martin,” she mumbled under her to meet?” “And is that the last time you saw her?” “But can you at least tell me why we are here? Why did breath before driving off in a squeal of tyres. “I’m not one of those awful ‘groomers’ that you hear “Yes, I swear,” said Ben rubbing his ear. you want to see me?” Linda’s voice broke the silence. “You were going to tell about. Julia and I are around the same age, she isn’t a The detective got up and spoke to the two constables, “We’ve been friends since high school, haven’t we?” me about Martin and this tall blonde woman—the beauty. minor. I am careful of that, and we have spoken on video “keep him locked up for the night.” He turned back to Ben, Amanda said. What about them?” so we knew exactly what each other looked like.” “Julia was reported missing by her boyfriend three days “Yes. But we went separate ways.” “Oh, never mind,” Amanda said almost in a whisper. Her ago. Our investigations into her movements have all “I know. Last time I saw you was two years ago at your face reddening, her eyes �lashing with the anger she’d “We arranged to meet at the seafront café, we planned ended with several witnesses remembering your row at and Martin’s wedding. I wanted to meet you, to rekindle been trying to hide. on going to the Folk Festival, we are buskers and both the café. We can �ind no trace of her since.” our friendship.” “I’m picking him up from the airport at 5:30 PM, and we wanted to experience this event for years, decided to do it “Her boyfriend?” stammered Ben. “What boyfriend?” A waitress with a tablet in her hand came to take their are going to have dinner at the Casa Ristorante Italiano at together, good way to get to know each other, have fun order. Darling Harbour. His entire team will be there to and not be under any pressure if it didn’t work out.” “She didn’t mention him? Interesting? We’ll talk to you “Flat white, please,” Linda said with a smile. celebrate.” “And… did it work out?” prompted the detective. again in the morning,” promised Mark as Ben was “Mineral water,” Amanda said without looking up. She Amanda grabbed her tote and took her phone out, Ben shifted uncomfortably in his chair, rubbing his ear, escorted to a cell. focused on Linda’s hands, the unpolished nails cut short. checking her messages. “It was nice talking to you, but I’ve as he tended to do when stressed. Mark Whitehead made Detective Whitehead and his sergeant, Charlie “And we are here because you want us to be friends got to go,” she said dropping the phone back in the bag. a mental note of the body language. Drummond returned to the café to further their enquiries. after all that time?” “Oh, what’s the rush? I thought you wanted to rekindle “Not really,” Ben was aware it didn’t make him look good “Yeh! I remember that couple, they were disturbing all “Well, yes,” Amanda said, taking her Chanel compact our friendship.” but decided to tell the truth. He’d never been a good liar, my customers, not good for business, yer know? The car from her tote. She clicked it open and checked her lipstick, “Sorry, something’s come up; I’ve really got to go.” he thought, dejectedly. “The chemistry just wasn’t there. was dark blue, a Ford.” looked at her face from side to side and smiled at her “I’ll stay and enjoy my coffee. Are you sure you don’t She had a really irritating laugh and… she kept making “You didn’t get the number, I suppose?” re�lection in the mirror. They were deliberate and mean- want to �inish what you were going to tell me tell me these slurping noises when she was drinking her coffee. “No, I didn’t mate, I run a café, I’m not a cop, but old Jack spirited gestures; Linda instantly recognised them as about Martin?” Linda said with a wry smile. I made an excuse, said I had a 7pm gig at the hall and over there might tell you more.” such, and their impact was not lost on her. She took a sip Amanda ignored the question and walked off, her heels needed to get down there. She got pretty shirty, said why “Hey, mate, wake up,” said Charlie, shaking the old of coffee and waited for Amanda’s next move. click-clacking as she slammed her way out of the café. hadn’t I told her, said I was making an excuse to ditch her dishevelled man, slumped in the doorway of the empty With the compact still open, Amanda leaned toward Nice try, Linda thought, her smile widening as Amanda before we even got to know each other. I never was a shop opposite the café. Linda: “A woman must keep her looks up, doesn’t she? melted into the crowded street. good liar…” cont. page 22…

20 WRITERS’VOICE271—MARCH2021 Website: fawnsw.org.au Website: fawnsw.org.au WRITERS’ VOICE 271—MARCH 202121 Writing Competitions

Closing date 31 August 2021: 17 Normal Competition FELLOWSHIP OF AUSTRALIAN WRITERS Conditions apply[see p 24]. NEW SOUTH WALES INC THE AWARD MARJORIE BARNARD PRIZE: $500 SHORT STORY AWARD 2021 THE WINNER will be announced at the Annual Luncheon TERMS AND CONDITIONS Opens 1st April – Closes Noon 31st May 2021 to be held in Sydney. All Enquires to Failure to comply with the terms and conditions will mean . Phone 0492 833 522. SENIORS CARD SHORT STORY COMPETITION 2021 disquali�ication. 1 The Award is for Short Stories up to 3000 words he NSW Dept of Communities and Justice and FAW are Due to the requirement of the printer, entries to be in 2 Entrants must be permanent residents of Australia. Tagain conducting a Short Story Competition. The Top digital form. (Help for non-computer users available on Closing date 31 August 2021: 100 stories will be published in Seniors Stories Vol. 7 and 0417 403 720 – leave your name and contact number). 3 Submitted entries must not have previously been published, nor be under consideration for publication. launched in November 2021. Stories showing senior years Entries must be aWord document, not a PDF or JPEG. FELLOWSHIP OF AUSTRALIAN WRITERS Entries may have been entered in other competitions NEW SOUTH WALES INC are when age doesn’t matter and are worth sharing. Tap Entries sent in a format other than Word not accepted. into your memories, ask family/friends for their but not won a monetary prize. Receipt of entry will 2021 HILARIE LINDSAY YOUNG WRITERS Entries should be typed in 12pt font, double spaced. anecdotes, or maybe you are witness to others who love not be acknowledged. SHORT STORY COMPETITION FOR living every day to its fullest —and create a short story for AUTHOR NAME SHOULD ONLY APPEAR ON THE 4 Multiple entries are permitted, a separate Entry Form AUSTRALIAN SCHOOL CHILDREN ENTRY FORM… NOT THE STORY. must be submitted with each entry. others to enjoy. Entries are sought in the following categories: 5 Entry Fee is $10.00 per entry. TERMS AND CONDITIONS Queries please contact: Maureen Kelly ��� 0417 403 720 SECTION 1: Years 10, 11 & 12 6 The closing date is 31st August 2019. 1. The competition is open to all New South Wales or email . Up to 2500 words Prize $150 Seniors cardholders. 7 Entries are to be submitted via the online form WORKSHOPS available on the FAW website at SECTION 2: Years 7, 8 & 9 Up to 2500 words Prize $125 2. Seniors Card Membership Number must be included Workshops are being held around the State for Seniors 8 The details for direct Deposit are as follows BSB: 082 on the entry form. new to writing who would like to participate in the 574 Account Number: 177 603 608. Please use the SECTION 3: Years 5 & 6 3. Seniors Card Membership, competition entry and competition. Upcoming workshops are at Sydney City competitor’s name, and the competition as the Up to 1500 words Prize $100 Workshops are FREE. Mar 16, Goulburn Mar 23, Albury Mar 25 and Katoomba payment details (ie. J Doe Marjorie Barnard), and SECTION 4: Year 4 & under Mar 29. They have already been held at Port Stephens attach a copy of the receipt to the entry form. Up to 1500 words. Prize $50 4. The theme for this year is‘What’s age got to do Feb 24 and Coffs Harbour Mar 9. Attendance is FREE. with it?’ 9 For those unable to use the online form, a separate The entry fee is $3.00 (please note that entries that do not BOOKINGS – Maureen Kelly��� 0417 403 720 form will be forwarded on request by email from include the fee will be disquali�ied). 5. Story length max. 1,000 words (Poetry not accepted) Please share this information with your senior family and should be Entries should be typed on A4 paper, double spaced in The [excess word count will be disquali�ied – however the members, friends and colleagues. accompanied by a receipt for the direct deposit, a student’s name shouldNOT appear on the entry. title is exempt.] Bring with you: cheque made out to the Fellowship of Australian Entries should be made via theonline entry form foundat 6. Multiple entries may be submitted but only one will Writers, or a postal note. . Writing paper and pen be published. None will be accepted outside the stated 10 The author’s identity must appear on the Entry Form The details for direct Deposit are as follows BSB: Personal water bottles with caps. competition dates as the link will close. and Cover Sheet ONLY. The author’s name must NOT 082 574 Account Number: 177 603 608. Please use the 7. The top 100 entries will be published in the Seniors COVID-SAFE PRACTICES appear on either the manuscript or the Title Page. competitors’ name, and the competition as the payment Card anthology to be released in November 2021. Sign in on arrival or use QR code on phone. Face mask in 11 Only page number and title of the entry is to appear details (ie. J Doe Hilarie Lindsay), and attach a copy of the case you can’t keep your distance from others. Wash your receipt to the entry form. 8. The judge’s decision is �inal, and no correspondence on each page of the manuscript. hands often, and use hand sanitiser on arrival. Should online submission not be available students may will be entered into. 12 The results, and the judge’s report, will be emailed to For more information visit the NSW Government website all contestants after the Awards Luncheon in request an entry form . 9. TheEntry form is available from the FAW website or call the National Older November. Email must contain the entry, the entry form, and the . The forms are interactive from Persons COVID-19 Support Line on 1800 171 866. 13 The author retains copyright to all work submitted, Direct Deposit receipt number. Posted entries will be 1st April, and the entry can be attached. although prize-winning entries or a precis must be accepted, and should be mailed to the address on the entry available for publication in the Fellowship’s bulletin form, and be accompanied by a cheque or postal order Writers Voice and on the FAW NSW website. made out to The Fellowship of Australian Writers NSW. BEN’S STORY Unsuccessful entries will not be returned unless Entries must be student’s own work, unpublished and cont. from page 20 accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope not having won any competition at time of entry. Normal Having established Jack had seen the car, and yes he looking for a missing woman – Julia Kelly, last seen talking of appropriate size and postage. Competition Conditions apply [see page 24]. Winners will be announced at the FAW NSW Annual remembered it had a sign on it, Happy Valley Health to the occupants of a car bearing this resort’s name.” 14 Entries must be original, creative and inspiring works Presentation Luncheon in November. Should it not be Resort, Mark dropped a few coins in Jack’s cap by way of The clerk gave a loud laugh. which present to the audience an engaging work of possible to have a Luncheon again this year, then the thanks and they set off down the highway to the resort. “Hey, this is no laughing matter, young man.” literary excellence. The resort’s entrance was impressively lit up, a “Look, mate Julia’s a regular, she’s a sometime busker, certi�icates will be sent directly to the schools for 15 The judge’s decision is �inal and no correspondence multitude of lights illuminating the driveway to a large sometime loopy rich bitch! Gets on social media, can’t presentation, and the prize money deposited in the will be entered into. There will be no individual mansion, probably once owned by someone of wealth, help herself, makes dates and disappears. She’s been gone school’s bank account via direct debit. appraisals. now catering for yuppies obsessed about their image! three days this time. Her long-suffering boyfriend and our Results will be published in Writers Voice and on the 16 FAW NSW reserves the right not to award any prizes Displaying their police warrant cards, Mark addressed driver brought her back a while ago!” FAW NSW website. if, in the judge’s estimation, no entries of suf�icient the �it young man behind the reception desk, “We are Mark and Charlie sighed! Enquiries to Cate Plink merit are received. Phone 0492 833 522.

22 WRITERS’VOICE271—MARCH2021 Website: fawnsw.org.au Website: fawnsw.org.au WRITERS’ VOICE 271—MARCH 202123 Writing Competitions Closing date 15 May 2021 Crossword EASTWOOD/HILLS Closing date 15 May 2021 ACROSS FELLOWSHIP OF AUSTRALIAN WRITERS 1. Statue used as a suppor�ng column in a building. (8) EASTWOOD/HILLS BOREE LOG AWARD FOR BUSH VERSE 2021 4. Middle name of poet who wrote Ode to the West FELLOWSHIP OF AUSTRALIAN WRITERS First Prize $100 plus a trophy and certi�icate. Entrants are Wind. (6) LITERARY COMPETITION 2021 eligible for one award only. 7. Paddle. (3) All categories Open Theme. Ballads to be in perfect rhyme and metre with max 80 8. An�gone’s unforgiving, unyielding uncle. (5) Category 1: Flash Fiction lines and an Australian bush theme. 9. Country contracted to assist another if threatened. (4) Max 500 words. Entry Fee: $8 per entry—maximum 4 entries per entrant. First Prize $150, Second Prize, $50 Cheques or money orders payable to: Fellowship of 10. Male swan; head of maize. (3) Category 2: Philippa Holland Award for Poetry Australian Writers. Fees can also be sent electronically. 12. Sharif. (4) Max 80 lines per poem. (Includes all forms of poetry Enquiries: Frances Moon . 13. Of, same quality, type, thing, person. (3) except Bush Poetry—seeBoree Log competition on Each entry must be accompanied by a separate signed 14. Persian king who invaded Greece with success un�l a defeat at sea ended his plans. (6) this page). entry form. Electronic entries accepted. Please email a 15. Range of understanding, knowledge. (3) First Prize $150, Second Prize $50 Microsoft word �ile (.doc or .docx) with a separate Category 3: Alan Russell Award for Memoir scanned signed entry form to . 16. Mouth throat or gullet, usually of a voracious animal. (3) Max 1,500 words. Conditions of entry and entry forms can be found on the 19. Shipboard prison. (4) First Prize $150, Second Prize $50 Eastwood-Hills FAW website: . Category 4: Pauline Walsh Award for Short Story 20. Young of monotremes. (7) Max 1,500 words. 21. Possessive pronoun, first person, singular. (2) First Prize $150, Second Prize $50 Closing date 31 March 2021: 23. Ancient life symbol, most o�en Egyp�an. (4) Entry Fee: $8 per entry or $30 for 4 entries. Cheques or 25. Producing electricity; having an effect from an Call for submissions electric charge. (8) money orders payable to: Fellowship of Australian EUCALYPT: A TANKA JOURNAL ISSUE 30 Writers. Fees can also be sent electronically. 28. Unusual middle name of a disgraced U.S. president. Thanks to Greg Tome, Southern Highlands branch (7) Enquiries: Frances Moon . Please submit up to six original, unpublished tanka (one 30. Soothing for the stomach (less common spelling) (8) Each entry must be accompanied by a separate signed will be selected) in the body of your email to theEucalypt editor, Julie Thorndyke 31. Bairn; newborn. (6) entry form. Electronic entries accepted. Please email a Closing date 14 April 2021 (8pm): Microsoft word �ile (.doc or .docx) with a separate For subscription information visit: . eucalypt-a-tanka-journal/> HUNTER WRITERS CENTRE Conditions of entry and entry forms can be found on the For information about the tanka form please refer to: 2021 NEWCASTLE SHORT STORY AWARD Eastwood-Hills FAW website: . 2000 words maximum. Entry Fee $16.50 ($15.00 + GST). DOWN 1St Prize $3,000 cash. 2nd Prize $1500 cash 1. Small tapering bone at the base of a human’s spine – named a�er its shape resembling a cuckoo’s beak. (6) 3rd Prize $1000 West�ield voucher. 2. Greek goddess who resented having to marry a Finalists will be published in an anthology, to be announced human, mother of hero warrior who killed and was on the promoter’s website and across its social media killed at Troy. (6) channels. 3. Put on (a garment). (3) For full Terms & Conditions and online Entry Form, visit NORMAL COMPETITION CONDITIONS 4. See 19 down. hunterwriterscentre.org/newcastle-short-story-award-2021/ Unless stated otherwise, these conditions apply to any subsequent competitions if the writer is advised prior to 5. Lewis Carroll nonsense word; a cri�cal remark. (5) ALL WRITING COMPETITIONS the closing dates that the entry was successful elsewhere 6. Australian dancer, choreographer and actor, with a cash prize. interna�onally renowned. (8) ● Entries should be submitted in English, using one side of A4 paper, typed double-spaced (except poetry) in a standard ● Cheques and/or money orders should be made payable to Closing date 30 April 2021: 11. Liberal poli�cian, Chief Jus�ce of the High Court at the �me of Whitlam dismissal. (7) typeface (12 pt min.), using generous margins. the organisers, unless otherwise stipulated. Multiple entries FURPHY LITERARY AWARD 17. Eager, expectant. (4) No fancy fonts, clip art or decorations of any kind. may be paid with one cheque or money order – do not send NATIONAL SHORT STORY COMPETITION coins or stamps. 18. Largest and most populous con�nent. (4) ● NO names or addresses to appear on manuscripts. A This year’’s theme is ‘This Australian Life (in all its diversity)’. ● Copyright remains with the author. Entries will not be 19 & 4 down. Nineteenth century English wit, dandy, separate COVER SHEET must be attached, containing the The competition welcomes �iction and non-�iction entries returned and will be destroyed after the announcement of leader of fashion and injudicious gambler. (4,8) title of the entry, competition name, section category if under 5,000 words from writers aged 18+. results. 20. Suburb where the power sta�on was located which applicable, word or line count, author’s name, address, First place wins $15,000, second place$3,000, and third lit Sydney streets with electric ligh�ng for the first �me telephone number and email address (if available). Title and ● The judges’decisions will be final and no correspondence place$2,000. Select �inalists will receive publication in the in 1902. (7) page number (ONLY) of the entry should appear on each will be entered into. 2021 Furphy Anthology. 22. Chide, upbraid. (5) page of the manuscript. ● If you require a copy of the results mailed to you, please Storytelling is part of Furphy’s DNA. During WWI, Australian 24. Another name for Ancient Greece. (6) send a standard DL-sized stamped, self-addressed envelope ● Entries must be original work and must not have won a cash soldiers would trade wild tales (known as “furphies’) behind 26. Disappear. (6) prize in any other competition nor been published in any (SSAE) with your entry. Furphy water carts. The Awards honour both the ‘furphy’, and 27. Papal ambassador. (6) form, as at the closing date of the competition. These are general guidelines. For complete conditions relating to Joseph Furphy – brother of Furphy founder John Furphy, and 28. Plant used in cooking, or making money. (4) ● Entries may be entered in more than one competition at the individual competitions, and to obtain entry forms (where author of the Australian classicSuch is Life. required), contact the relevant competition organisers. To enter, and for full Conditions and more info, visit 29. Garment worn by women in South Asia, wrapped time of entry HOWEVER the entry must be withdrawn from around the body. (4) Answers page 28

24 WRITERS’VOICE271—MARCH2021 Website: fawnsw.org.au Website: fawnsw.org.au WRITERS’ VOICE 271—MARCH 202125 Article This story has been published in the Papua New Guinea Literary Achievements Assoc of Aust quarterly magazineKundu (formally Una Voce)andalsoappearedasablogonJune8,2019onthe BLUE MOUNTAINS FAW The Human Face of Kokoda author’s web site by Suellen Holland, Lake Macquarie FAW Pat Allen, Rosemary Baldry and Margaret Onus ������������ present themselves all the time and it’s our The Japanese felt the shame of surrender after WWII so Their stories were included in Seniors’ Stories Volume 6 Ochoice whether we act upon these ‘opportunities’ or not. acutely that, even today, there is little recorded, much less which you can read here: . the Kokoda Trail. I admit I am not a person who enjoys camping insight as to what it wasreally like for the Japanese soldiers Jeanette Temesvary or ‘living rough’, I am far too used to modern day conveniences, forced to take Kokoda; the mission was doomed to fail, the ‘good Had her short story titled ‘Counting on You’ included in however, after much thought, I decided to take up the challenge. road’ between Buna and Kokoda was non-existent, the promised the ‘Blue Mountains Stories: A Year Like No Other’ I conveniently put aside my misgivings of the ‘experience’ supplies never arrived, at times the soldiers were so hungry exhibition. This will be displayed in their virtual gallery people told me I would remember for the rest of my life; bile their ‘stomachs stuck to the inside wall of their backs’ and and retained as part of Blue Mountains City Council rises in my throat at the thought of a long drop toilet, cold water conditions of the track, lied about. I learned of the desperation to historical archives. Read her story here: showers leave me well,cold and I know that a leech will smell me hold their (Kokoda) position at all cost, the breakdown of human In many aspects the Kokoda Trail of today is as it was back . a mile off, I wonder if leeches like Diors’ Dune, I hope not. Aside decency when faced with defeat, the lack of medical supplies then, a well-used highway. The Owen Stanley Ranges still Kathryn Walls from all that, I felt myself drawn to the idea. and the accepted demise of the wounded left behind. ‘A path of echo with the sounds of battle; cries of anguish pierce the air, Successful publication of her historical �iction novel titled Almost from day one, I decided that I just didn’t want to in�inite sorrow’.A Human face traumatised for life. heavy footed, rubber soled boots shake the ground, and the Tallawoladah: on the Rocks on Amazon Kindle as an ebook. scramble up a couple of hills that had a ‘mean’ reputation and And of course, there is the story of the ‘Bone man of Kokoda’ rattle of water bottles announce the arrival of another group Read more about her novel on the ‘Bookshelf’ page. I certainly had nothing to prove, nor did I really care that people another young Japanese soldier who fought along every foot of of bloodied and weary ‘troops’.The path is full of trekkers, all thought I was ‘brave or tough’ because I had committed to a the blood-soaked path. He was the only one from his platoon to decked out (as I was) in their state-of the-art gear; fancy FOREST FAW gruelling twelve months training schedule. What I really wanted survive. After he was evacuated, he made a promise that one day expensive hiking boots, pure wool socks, waking sticks and Maureene Fries was to �ind the ‘human face of Kokoda’, if she had one. Was she he would return to Kokoda, �ind the remains of his fallen brightly coloured day packs. They sweat, groan and stumble just a dirt track in the Papua New Guinea jungle that happened comrades and bring them home to Japan for a proper burial. Maureene’s novel, Stones, Bones and Hollyhocks: Life and and as darkness falls, crawl into their warm sleeping bags Legend Collide, was published in January. to have ‘war history’, a dirt track, that one nation revered and Thirty-seven years later he returned to Kokoda, this time he and sleep like the dead. Butwhat if, the clothes they wore was another sought to forget, or was she more than that? carried a shovel and garden hoe instead of a grenade launcher a bull’s eye for the enemy,the water they guzzled was muddy Sophie Chenoweth These days the KokodaTrail is known as the Kokoda Track. and ri�le. Over the next 17 years he ‘worked’ the track and and full of mosquito lava and their childhood mate lay in a Sophie has self-published two full-colour books of poetry Kokoda Trail is the correct name, for the track. It seemsTrail unearthed hundreds and hundreds of Japanese remains. Many a hastily dug shallow grave further up the track; oh God how through Internet site Story Jumper:The Ballerina and The sounded American, so Track was (unof�icially) adopted instead. time he faced opposition, but he kept his promise and now many am I gonna tell his Mum he took the bullet for me. What if? Paperbark King. The Kokoda Trail story has been told and re-told well. In of his friends rest in eternal peace in Japan.A human face that And what about the locals, the Papuans who call Kokoda Colleen Russell 1942, the savage campaign fought between Australia and Japan rattled authorities. home; they run along the track in bare feet, often with a child Colleen’s poem ‘Moon of my Delight’ was shortlisted in the is one of the most epicand documented episodes of (our) war What of the ‘Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels’, the Papuans who lived on their hip. Leap from log to slippery log and step off the Positive Words End-of-Year Short Story and Poetry history; a few short months when two mortal enemies pushed along the Kokoda Trail. The villagers lived a wholly traditional path to let you (and a hundred others) pass. They shelter Competition 2020 each other back and forth along a muddy,precipitous bush track existence before the war, however in 1942 everything changed. under a leaf when it rains, drink from a stream that gushes Short Story ‘Run, Marlee, Run’ was commended in the Port over a mountainous spine in southern Papua New Guinea. A few The young men were recruited to ferry supplies to the front line from the hillside. Fill their string billums with yams and Stephens Literature Award 2020. short months when both sides �louted war conventions, shot and carry the wounded back to base; their old and in�irm, as well coconuts and offer you a banana and a hand when you Margaret Zanardo prisoners, tortured the local villagers for information, raped, as their women and children, were left to fend for themselves. As stumble. Much the samereally as in 1942. What is that Margaret has had the following poems published: pillaged and plundered. A few short months where at times, the the �ighting encroached the villagers’ land, the soldiers both about? Said no one ever. ‘Ophelia’, inPolestar Writers’ Journal #39, November 2020; conditions were so inhuman, men were reduced to a primal Australians and Japanese trampled crops, destroyed huts and I am happy to say I found my ‘Human Face of Kokoda’.The level that, quite literally,left a nasty taste in their mouths. stole food.A human face that accepted the inevitable. ‘Barefoot Ballerina’, inPositive Words, December 2020; Australian Troops and the PIB who stopped an almost ‘Sleepyhead’, inPositive Words, December 2020; ‘Ain’t The courage and sacri�ice of our soldiers (mostly unblooded There were �ive of us in my Kokoda party.We started our trek invincible enemy,the Japanese Imperial Army who sacri�iced militiamen) supported by the Papuan Infantry Battalion (PIB) is at Owers Corner ‘the bottom end’ near Port Moresby and for the Misbehavin’, in The Mozzie, October 2020; ‘The Wind from themselves for their living deity and the Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels the South’, inThe Mozzie, October 2020; ‘this other legendaryand they suffered greatly. The mountainous terrain next 8 days ‘walked’ and I use the term loosely up to Kokoda. We who so many owe their lives to. Let us cross the boundaries was foreign to the Australians, they had little or no support from waded through rivers, splashed our way over streams and normal’, inThe Mozzie, October 2020; ‘In My Blood’, in The and remember whatever their colour or their creed, they all Mozzie, January 2021; ‘Aretha’, inThe Mozzie, January ‘21. their superiors and to add to the confusion, our troops didn’t scrambled over huge fallen trees. On day 3 the thunder rolled had aHuman Face. But in my mind the true ‘Human Face of even have a ‘proper’ uniform. They had ‘sand coloured’ cast offs around the Maguli Range, the heavens opened, and the track Kokoda’ are the Papuans both past and present. The Porters, LAKE MACQUARIE FAW from our desert campaign, the light colour clashed with the dark became a mud bath. We skidded and slithered our way through guides and local peoples who carry our packs, clean our Alison Ferguson green of the jungle and made the men an easy target for the Marani and Neuro and then there was Brigade Hill. Little did I boots of mud and nourish our tummies with food. Tend to enemy; it is documented that the 96-kilometre track claimed the know, I was about to face my biggest challenge. The gruelling our wounds, �ill our water bottles and offer words of Awarded �irst prize in the Wyong Writers 500-word lives of over 600 Australian and PIB soldiers, with well in excess climb left me, dehydrated and vomiting with exhaustion. That encouragement when the going gets tough. All without a Pandemic Story competition, short story ‘COVID corpse’. of 1600 wounded. The little-known local jungle path between night, I crawled into my tent and dreamt of evacuation. Personal murmur of malice and they graciously share their Kokoda Pam Garfoot Owers Corner and Kokoda became a blood-stained path for hygiene became a distant memory and the kilos dropped off. with us, just as they did in 1942. Published inMorisset and Peninsula Bulletin, No. 94 Dec supremacy. A path where many earned the respect of an awe- Blisters bled and for one of our party,a tummy bug threatened a They are thetrue Human Faces of Kokoda. 2020, short story ‘Any other name’ inspired (grateful) nation and for many more, the absolute right medical evacuation. Tempers �lared and harsh words were My admiration and respect are heart felt for the local Published inMorisset and Peninsula Bulletin, No. 95 Feb to wear a medal on their chest. A human face, I’d say so, spoken and a long-standing friendship, fractured beyond repair. guides and porters from Kokoda Spirit who not only 2021, poem ‘Statis’ wouldn’t you. Onward and upward we climbed and trekked and climbed and attended myevery need and shared their Kokoda with me, Published inHunter Professional Arts Magazine, Issue 5 But what of the shadowy enemy lurking in the dense wet trekked again. We passed through Myola, Templeton’s Crossing but showed me that the Kokoda Trail has many,many human Nov 2020–Feb 2021, article ‘Focus on writing’ and short undergrowth. The smart, smug, sullied and blooded, highly and at Isurava rested a while in quiet re�lection. Kokoda was faces, both past and present, not just one. story ‘Washing day’ trained, elite 144th Regiment of the Japanese Imperial Army, an �irmly in our sights. Finally, on the afternoon of day eight we Lest We Forget. Shortlisted in January 2021 in theNewcastle Herald Short armybetter known for their atrocities other than their walked through the hallowed arches that marked the entrance Suellen Story Competition 2021, short story ‘Living the blues’. participation in battle. to Kokoda. Our mission complete. cont. next page…

26 WRITERS’VOICE271—MARCH2021 Website: fawnsw.org.au Website: fawnsw.org.au WRITERS’ VOICE 271—MARCH 202127 Literary Achievements Lake Macquarie Plays, ‘Covid Bandits’ and ‘You Can’t Die Twice’ accepted SUTHERLAND FAW Democratic Poetics subtitled A Gathering of the Finest . for performance in Mudgee Shorts 2021. cont.from previous page Helen Armstrong Poems published inPoetry Matters from 2006 to 2019 . Jill Baggett Editor, Oatley Writers’ Group 2021 Anthology. Blurb written for back cover of poetry collectionNow and Elizabeth Horwitz Short stories, ‘The Blue Umbrella’ and ‘Matilda’s Friend’ in Then by Joanna Van Kool December 2020 Fiona Johnstone Published in Hunter Professional Arts Magazine, Issue 5 Celebrating Women book from Kyabram International Nov 2020–Feb 2021, editorial. Women’s Day Short story in Oatley Writers’ Group 2021 Anthology. Book Review of Hildegard of Bingen: A poetic journey, Olga Korlevic Play, ‘Move Over Picasso’ accepted for performance in Pat Ruell reviewed by Beatriz CopelloWomen’s Ink March 2020 Published by Languedoc, children’s story bookLittle Lorie Mudgee Shorts 2021. Short story in Oatley Writers’ Group 2021 Anthology. A poem, ‘Platypus Spotting is Fun!’ and short story, ‘I was had a farm. Elaine Staples Lost’ in Society of Women Writers, NSW Inc 95th Tony Lang PORT MACQUARIE HASTINGS FAW Published a book of her short stories illustrated with anniversary anthologySplash, Splish, Squawk 2020 Published in Hunter Professional Arts Magazine,Issue5 Ian Keast reproductions of her oil paintings for her 90th birthday. Poem, ‘Sydney to Melbourne’ inMozzie Vol 27 May 2020 Nov 2020–Feb 2021, poem ‘Mother moon, father sun, Tanka published in Eucalypt Journal, November 2020, ‘To Christine Sykes Poem, ‘Ritual’ inMozzie Volume 28 July 2020 Venus child’ and article ‘Marley’s ghost’. a Child’s Eye’ Won Best Fiction Award from The Society of Women Poem ‘Pandemic’ in Womens Ink, SWW July 2020 Bronwyn MacRitchie 2 Tanka published in Kendall Chronicle, December 2020, Writers for her novel,The Changing Room Poem ‘In search of Hildegard’ translated into German and Shortlisted in January 2021 in the Newcastle Herald Short ‘Coffee Moods’ Her memoir,Gough and me to be published by Simon & made into a Podcast as part of the Pilgrimage in honour of Story Competition 2021, short story ‘Blank’. Poem (Anthology) published Poetica Christi Press Schuster Australia in May 2021. Hildegard of Bingen, Germany in September 2020 Melbourne 2021, ‘Early Enough’, inJoy in the Morning Poem ‘Gardeners of Hope’ published inHoly Shenanigans Kristen Mair Sylvia Vago Podcast of Pastor Tara Eastman Central New York Shortlisted in January 2021 in theNewcastle Herald Short Jackie Laing Published a short story in Oatley Writers’ Group 2021 Mists of Time co-edited with Decima Wraxall. Ginninderra Story Competition 2021, short story ‘A grave mistake’. Published in NSWSeniors’ Stories Volume 6, ‘The Sixtieth anthology. Birthday Treat’ Press Chapbook Jan Mitchell PMH, In-house competition Short Story Winner, ‘A Week- New collection of poetry, working title Salty Beachcomber Published in Hunter Professional Arts Magazine, Issue 5 SYDNEY CITY FAW end Away’ for publication mid 2021 accepted by Ginninderra Press. Nov 2020–Feb 2021, article ‘Phosphorescence or Pip Grif�in bioluminescence? Some musings, part one’ and short Brian Tolagson Margaret Caro, the extraordinary life of a pioneering WOLLONDILLY FAW story ‘The missing sapphire’, also review ‘A morality play Published in Seniors’ Stories Volume 6, ‘All Quiet on the dentist, New Zealand 1848-1938, Pohutukawa Press, was Andy Renella set to music’ Eastern Front’ Highly Commended in the poetry section of the Society of Playwriting member Andy made it through to the yearly Published, bookFood for eyes: nutrients for ailing vision. Jill Schuler Women Writers’ Awards 2020 at a ceremony at the State Library of NSW on 10 February 2021. �inals with his entry to the Bundanoon Crash Test Drama Rina Robinson Published in Seniors’ Stories Volume 6, ‘My Father’s Story’ The Covid-postponed launch ofMargaret Caro held at the Play competition for 2020. Published in Hunter Professional Arts Magazine, Issue 5 Kaye Christensen Leichhardt Town Hall on 21 February 2021 Narelle Noppert Nov 2020–Feb 2021, poems ‘Desires’, ‘Tribute’ and ‘Why PMH, In-house competition Poetry Winner, ‘Tis Our Two entries accepted (along with Jill Baggett from Christmas?’. Two poems in the anthologyDemocratic Poetic: the �inest Centenary My Darlin’. poems published in Poetry Matters 2006-2019, Issue 40 Mudgee) by Kyabram Town Hall Writers in Victoria for Margaret Young December 2020 their book written for women or about women for Published in Hunter Professional Arts Magazine, Issue 5 REVESBY WRITERS FAW Currently working onHarriet Webb: My Adventures in New International Women’s Day 2021. The launch of the book Nov 2020-Feb 2021, poem ‘Simpson Desert: a sestina’. Madeleine Pizzuti Zealand, a �ictional verse narrative about a sixteen-year- was on 6th March at Kyabram Town Hall. Bear which has had excellent reviews by Goodreads was old housemaid who migrates alone from Portsmouth to Narelle, Maureen Kelly and Jill Baggettas joint writers, MACARTHUR FAW scheduled to be promoted in a local café KaDeli at Panania NZ in 1863. also had a joint story accepted for the same publication, Kim Sami on Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th March.Bear is a story of a Colleen Keating Celebrating Women. much loved teddy bear and his young companion. 1st Prize in the Oran Park Parish Short Story Competition Hildegard of Bingen: A poetic journey won two awards at on the theme of ‘A Good News Story’. Diana Jabbour the Society of Women Writers NSW Biennial Book Victoria Chie Bankstown Library are looking forward to Diana’s next Awards: SWW Poetry Book Award 2020 and SWW Non- Two short stories sold to English magazines: ‘More Fool book regarding the history of Georges Hall and local area �iction Book Award 2020 Crossword Answers Her’ toEnglish Woman’s Weekly and ‘The Ming Test’ to such as Bankstown Airport. Desert Patterns Highly Commended Poetry Award at the [Puzzle page 25] English Woman’s Own. SWW Biennial Book Awards Feb 2021 Bernard Smith SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS FAW Brush of Birds by Colleen Keating: A Picaro Poets collection, Winner of end-of-year 2000-word short story competition Lorraine James January 2021published by Ginninderra Press Australia with a story entitled ‘A Good Book’. Short story ‘Spring rain’ published inWriters Voice, and can be purchased from December 2020. MUDGEE VALLEY WRITERS Deborah Ritchie Poem ‘summer anguish’ in Mozzie Volume 28 Jan. 2021 Kevin Pye Poem ‘Susan in a photograph’ to be published inBurrow, Blurb written for the back cover of poetry collection –The TSA Lyrics Award at Tamworth for ‘The Sepia Soldier’. 2nd edition. mathematics of love by Sonia Hunt January 2021 Haiku in Windfall #9 2021, ed. Beverley George Pamela Meredith Greg Tome Two poems, ‘face of verity’ and ‘no virtual meeting here’ in ‘Shiloh Grace Has A Problem’ published inFreeXpresSion . Play ‘The three sisters’ best play and best director Mozzie Vol. 28, 2021 Marilyn Sayer awarded at Bundanoon Crash Test Finals 2020 Poem ‘Ophelia drowning’ to be publishedBurrow, 2nd Ed Five poems ‘escape with cezanne’, ‘seeing eyes’, ‘not ‘The Donkey’, ‘Trying To Diet or Dying To Try It’, ‘Covi narcissus’, ‘marilyn’, ‘memory’ inPoetry Matters. What’? and ‘The Farmer From Mudgee’ published in Book of poetry ‘Tilting at time’ reviewed favourably by FreeXpresSion Plumwood Mountain Literary Magazine

28 WRITERS’VOICE271—MARCH2021 Website: fawnsw.org.au Website: fawnsw.org.au WRITERS’ VOICE 271—MARCH 202129 Branch Meetings and Contacts

BLUE MOUNTAINS FAW HUNTER FAW MUDGEE VALLEY FAW We list on this page, our 1st Sunday – 1.45 to 4.45 pm 1stWednesday – 10.00 am 2ndTuesday – 12 Noon branches and their contact Note new venue: Hudson Room of Sydney Junction Club Mudgee, details for members, visitors Fellowship of FAW ISOLATED WRITERS BRANCH Springwood Sports Club Hotel, Beaumont St., Hamilton Mortimer Street, Mudgee. and writers keen to meet with Australian MEMBERSHIP ENQUIRIES: Enquiries: Jeanette Temesvary Enquiries: Christine Brotherson Enquiries: Jill Baggett 02 6372 0743 other writers for support, Writers NSW Inc. Phone: 0423 908 199 (Sec.) 0412 030 427 PO BOX 356, Mudgee 2850 Carolyn Cash, Isolated Writers Convenor critique and to develop skills. ABN 59 557 152 715 91 Buena Vista Rd, Winmalee 2777 Web: New members are particularly Email: ISOLATED WRITERS FAW wordpress.com> General correspondence: Hon. Secretary, FAW NSW Inc. Facebook page: This group of writers do not meet in welcome. 3/91 Main Road, McLarenVale SA 5171 MEMBERS’ACHIEVEMENTS: person but keep in contact through NORTH ARM COVE FAW Internet:< www.fawnsw.org.au> The Editor, Writers Voice Carolyn Cash, their Convenor, either 3rdThursday – 6.30 pm NOTE:WhileCOVID-19restrictionsarein Facebook: 28/100 Government Road, Wyee Point NSW 2259 CANBERRA & REGION FAW through the state FAW website place,normalscheduledmeetingslisted Community Centre, The Ridgeway, Email: Second Sunday – 2:00 pm or email North Arm Cove. heremaynotbeheld—pleasecontact . The National Library of Australia Enquiries: Lee Clayton 0411 883 264 therelevantbranchformoredetails. ABOUT THE FAW AFFILIATION FEES: See Isolated Writers page (inside (Friends’Room) Email: The aims of the FAW are: FAW NSW Affiliation Fees are due 31 December Parkes Place West, Canberra. ACT. back cover) for full details. FaceBook: North Arm Cove • to foster and endorse the growth of Australian writing each year. Enquiries: Fellowship Of Australian Writers STROUD WRITERS FAW KIAMA FAW • to promote excellence in writing Jenni Warren 0408 434 954 Fortnightly Thursdays Isolated Writers: $46.00 pa Email: 4th Saturday – 10am to 12 noon PARRAMATTA FAW 9.00 am to 12 noon • to encourage writers, and those interested in writing, to join the Under 21/Youth Rate: $23.00 pa Kiama Leagues Club 1st Saturday – 12.30 pm Stroud Library, Church Lane, Stroud Fellowship and enjoy the support, help and knowledge of Overseas Members: $51.00 pa 109 Terralong Street, Kiama. Room A Level 2, 1 Fitzwilliam Street Enquiries: members Enquiries: Sandra McCarthy (Sec.) Mail subscriptions to the FAW State Treasurer Kay EASTWOOD/HILLS FAW (RAFFLES building next door to the Dianne Foster 0429 487 601 • to expand the Fellowship across the State 0409 366 723 Bakon (see page 2 for address). Make cheques/money 1st Saturday – 1.30 pm library, across from Parramatta Stn). Email: • to provide an organisation to assist writers unable to attend Email:< [email protected]> orders payable to Fellowship of Australian Writers and Pennant Hills Community Centre, To gain access to the 2nd floor ring the Branch meetings Cnr Yarrara & Ramsay Rds, Secretary, Lyn Leerson 0421 188 770. SUTHERLAND SHIRE FAW enclose SSAE for receipt if required. LAKE MACQUARIE FAW • to take the Fellowship into the 21st century and take advantage Pennant Hills Last Saturday – 12.30 to 3.30pm 2nd Saturday – 2.30 to 4.30pm of technology and its new role in writing and publishing. At the same time, please advise the Membership Enquiries: Frances Moon (Pres.) PORT MACQUARIE- Sutherland Multi-purpose Centre Please note the slight change of time, HASTINGS FAW Registrar thatyou Email: 123 Flora Street, Sutherland Branch Meetings with meetings beginning at 2.30 for have paid.This will ensure that you are included on the or Laura Davis (Sec.)Email: Last Saturday – 1.00 to 4.00pm Enquiries: Sylvia Vago a trial period. The branch fellowships hold regular meetings; conduct workshops mailing list to receiveWriters Voice. The Mac Adams Music Centre All postal mail to 43 Jellicoe Street, Toronto Multi-Purpose Centre, and tutorials; hold writing competitions and publish anthologies of Web: 33 Lord Street, Port Macquarie Caringbah South. NSW. 2229 9 Thorne Street, Toronto. members’work. Visitors are most welcome to attend meetings or to ELECTRONIC ROUND ROBIN (ERR): (behind the Players Theatre near Email: Email: contact the Fellowship through their respective branch (see EUROBODALLA FAW the pool carpark) This consists of manuscripts submitted by members, Facebook: opposite page) or by contacting the FAW NSW State body (as above). 1st & 3rd Wednesdays– Enquiries: Web: sent as email attachments for reading and comments by Website: 10.30am to 2.30pm and Jackie Laing (Pres.) 6559 5387 other members. They are collated and at least two 1stTuesday 6.30–8.30 pm PO Box 67 Port Macquarie 2444 parcels of the manuscripts are sent to members as listed, Twitter: @lakemacfaw2 McKay Centre, Page St, Moruya. Email: SYDNEY CITY FAW who in turn read, comment and send them on. The last Instagram: #lakemacfaw2 3rd Friday – 4.00 pm The Fellowship of Australian Writers Enquiries: RosieToth 0437 627 756 PORT STEPHENS FAW person on each list sends the parcel back, at which time Email: LAMBING FLAT (YOUNG) Sydney Mechanics School of Arts, INTERSTATE BRANCHES the items are reviewed with comments and each 3rdThursday – 10.00 am 1st Floor, 280 Pitt Street, Sydney Web: 2nd Monday – 5.30 to 7.00pm manuscript returned to its author. Poems, articles, short Tomaree Library, Salamander Bay (close to Town Hall Station, Victoria: (Except December and January) Enquiries: light rail and buses). Fellowship of Australian Writers (VIC) Inc. stories, plays and chapters of books are acceptable. The Young Services Club FOREST FAW Christine Gregory (Pres.) 4982 2004 Open to all writers, all genres. 453 Bourke Road, KatamatiteVIC 3649 Please limit your submissions to: Cloete Street, Young 3rd Saturday – 2.00 pm Email: Enquiries: Pip 0406 627 855, Colleen VENUE: The Hive Creative Centre, Enquiries: Peter Symes (Pres) • 1 short story, maximum 5,000 words, or Forest Community Arts Centre ,or 53 Summerhill Road, Reservoir VIC. 3073. 0413 827 217 • 2 short stories, total maximum 5,000 words, or Darley Street, Forestville. Web: John 02 8920 8690. Phone: 03 9478 1942 Email:< [email protected]> • 1 article of similar length, or Enquiries: Maureene Fries Branch email: • 3 poems (or 1 poem, maximum about 80 lines), or 0421 551 157 com> WOLLONDILLY FAW Web: REVESBY WRITERS FAW Tasmania: Tahmoor Community Centre, length). 1st Saturday – 1.00 to 4.00pm Fellowship of Australian Writers (TAS) Inc. MACARTHUR FAW 6 Harper Close, Tahmoor. These guidelines are flexible. A combination of several GRIFFITH RIVERINA FAW Macarthur Room, PO Box 234, North HobartTAS 7002 3rd Sunday – 1.00 pm Enquiries: Jean Mills (Pres.) of the above can be offered if the items are only short. Last Thursday – 6.30pm Dixon Lane, Revesby 0427 213 300 Phone: 03 6234 4418 Campbelltown RSL Club Web: Apart from your comments, your contribution to the Family Funland Rooms Enquiries: Shirley Galloway 9709 4117 (Jade Room), Carberry Lane. Bunnings Complex, Email: [email protected]> Western Australia (FAWWA): scheme is no more than the time required to send the Enquiries: Victoria Chie 4862 2771 Kidman Way Web: WYONG WRITERS FAW Fellowship of Australian Writers (WA) Inc. parcel of manuscripts on to the next person on the list— Email: 4th Saturday – 1.30pm Enquires: Cara Anderssen SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS PO Box 6180, SwanbourneWA 6010 a small price to pay for the value that can be derived Phone: 0424263412 Woodbury Park Community Centre Phone: 08 9384 4771 from others’constructive remarks on your work. MOOCOOBOOLA FAW 2nd Saturday – 10.00am to 1pm Email: 3rdThursday – 1.30 pm 1 Woolmers Cres. (off Woodbury Email: New Venue to end of 2020: Park Drive), Mardi. Web: ERR Closing Dates Gladesville Library Welby Hall, Welby. Enquiries: The ERR closes at the end of each month. Pittwater Road, Gladesville. Enquiries: Uta Purcell (Sec.) Mei-Ling Venning (Pres.) 4333 7489 Queensland (FAWQ): Enquiries: John Egan 0435 835 346 02 4862 1793 85 Oaks Road, Shelly Beach 2261 Fellowship of Australian Writers Queensland (FAWQ) ERR Submissions Robert Dickins 9713 8088 Email: Email: Send your submissions to the ERR coordinator, Dai FeiWang 0422 432 130 This page has been updated Web: Web: Web: Brian Armour. Email: as at 15 February 2021—Ed.

30 WRITERS’VOICE271—MARCH2021 Website: fawnsw.org.au Website: fawnsw.org.au WRITERS’ VOICE 271—MARCH 202131 FAW Members’ Bookshelf

MAUREENE ANN FRIES Stones, Bones & Hollyhocks RECENTLY PUBLISHED BOOKS FOR SALE Stones, Bones & Hollyhocks reveals what can happen when Life & Please send updates and details for inclusion in this section of Legend Collide and the footsteps of today, �ind the footprints of the Writers Voice to:< [email protected]> past. Set in southern England, both iconic and secluded sacred sites play centre stage to a life changing adventure and uncover a tale of or mail to:The Editor, Writers’Voice, powerful vengeance reaching across the ages. The reader is taken on 28/100 Government Road, WYEE POINT NSW 2259 a journey across England but the story begins well before. It slowly For the FAW NSWwebsite, members should also send a reveals the bizarre events leading up to the trip and those that cover image and blurb to the webmaster: continue to happen. These experiences open up a new or perhaps forgotten world and provide the catalyst for a magical tale, spanning The FAW Bookshelf web page address is: almost a thousand years. Fuelled by legends, events and imagination, the history of a cursed Druid amulet, winds its way across the centuries. Available as an eBook on (KDP) Amazon Kindle ($5.99) COLLEEN KEATINGand PIPGRIFFINMood Indigo and Paperback ($21.99 plus $5.50 postage). Available direct from A collaboration of poetry by Pip Grif�in and Colleen Keating,Mood Author Indigo is a Picaro Poets chapbook published under the umbrella of MADELEINE PIZZUTI Bear Ginninderra Press. It is composed of 24 succinct and lyrical poems When bear �irst meets baby Michael, they get off to a shaky start. which are perfect for the reader wanting to retreat into a pocket- From close encounters with ceiling fans to confrontations with sized poetry book with an inner covenant of peace. slobbery dogs, Bear’s life never lacks adventure! But through the Colleen and Pip’s poetry transports the reader to Alice Springs, to bad times and the good, friendship grows—a bond not even time Lake Ainsworth, pleads for an end to war and �inds renewed hope in can break. Suitable for 7–12 years, and bedtime stories for younger the return of a single red wattle bird. children. Available through Amazon or by emailing $5. Order your copy online from PIP GRIFFIN Margaret Caro, the extraordinary life CAROLINE TUOHEY Piper Picks the Perfect Pet of a pioneering dentist in New Zealand, 1848-1938: her story in verse. “My dad says I can choose a pet, but I’m not sure which pet to get. A dog, Margaret Caro, the author’s great aunt, was unusual among New a cat, a �ish, a rat?” Zealand middle-class women reformers of her time in that during How can Piper pick the perfect pet when there are so many appealing her married life she worked continually and with �inancial success possibilities? A rhyming picture book for the 0-8 year old age range. in a male-dominated occupation. Illustrated by Nicky Johnston and published by Ford Street “This is a truly astonishing book with its depth of scholarship… Publishing it’s available in both hardcover (RRP $24.95) and (showing) a profound understanding of the family history (and) a paperback (RRP $16.95). Able to be sourced from all good picture of late 19th century and early 20th century New Zealand bookshops. Signed copies can be purchased from the author’s culture, dentistry processes, Adventist rites, dress and Western and website atwww.carolinetuohey.com Maori medical techniques. There is something for everyone in this book”—Les Wicks, Australian poet, publisher and editor. VALERIE PARV AM 34 Million Books Available from the author, , $25.00 plus Part memoir and part writing guide, Valerie Parv’s book takes you $7.00 postage within Australia. inside her world of words, from the drama of Parvgate to being made a Member of the Order of Australia. Published in �iction and JULIE THORNDYKE Watching Through The Day non�iction since the age of fourteen, she’s sold over 34 million books Beautifully interpreted by illustrator Nandina Vines, this book is one and ebooks translated into 29 languages. Each chapter includes a day’s visual journey with a young photographer who observes small “writing takeaway” for those interested in how she works her story creatures encountered in the southeast Australian coastal magic or would like to follow in her footsteps. landscape. “Valerie is one of the world’s most widely read romance �iction writers,” “Watching Through the Day is an exquisite closer look at all that �lies, New Woman Magazine. creeps, weaves and �loats about the Australian bush, backyard and ISBN 978-0-6489168-0-2 Published in September 2020. Available in seaside, a visual sensual feast that satis�ies both nature-lovers and paperback and ebook formats with purchasing links at those with a fondness for detail.”—Dimity Powell, Managing Ed, Kids Book Review. IPKidz, 2020. ISBN 9781922332073 (HB, 32pp) $26. LAKE MACQUARIE FAWBeneath the Surface An anthology of writing from Lake Macquarie. This volume is a collection J GAULTON Our Tom of short stories, poems and experiences written by members of the Lake Tom Middleton sees the outbreak of war a chance to escape his Macquarie Branch of the Fellowship of Australian Writers. We were humdrum life. Upon hearing of the sinking of theLusitania, Tom decides to enlist not only to get away from his lonely life but to inspired by the lake we live by and what lurks beneath its surface. protect his family and the country he loves. Tom and his new friends UPDATE: This anthology is now available in paperback, ebook, and are catapulted into the heat and dust of garrison duty in Egypt. A large print versions. country where disease is rampant, debauchery just around the ISBN 978-1-876409-63-0 Available through all major online book corner and death hides in plain sight. Amid the turmoil, he meets a retailers, including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Kobo. �iery young nurse, Ella, who helps him come to terms with the death JAN DEAN Intermittent Angels of his friend and shows him what love is. As the eve of the third battle Intermittent Angels is a wonderful, varied collection from the poet for Gaza looms, Tom and Ella are torn apart by the rigid rules and a Jan Dean using several poetic forms including tanka, pantoum and hidden secret. Will their love survive the desert storm that is about to sestina. As she says in her quote: “The angels in my life are either hit them, will they be together at the end? wondrous or wicked; often both.” Available in Paperback, Hardback and eBook formats from the This is a collection with surprises and delights on every page. It is Publisher, Xlibris and from Amazon; or in Paperback only (Cost $20 + witty, poignant, gloriously visual and daringly original. Even if the $5 postage), direct from the Author angels are only ‘intermittent’, this is a wondrous account of an intensely experienced earth-bound life. Copies are available for $20 plus $3.50 ordinary postage, by cheque or bank transfer for 100 plus pages of poetry. Registered, express and tracked mails are more expensive. For further details please email Jan Dean

32 WRITERS’VOICE271—MARCH2021Typeset byKen Driver for the Fellowship of Australian Writers NSW. Printed in Australia.