Summer Edition #242 DEC 2013
Quarterly Bulletin of The Fellowship of Australian Writers NSW Inc.
Colleen Parker
T introduction. I for one, was thrilled to her award from he Annual Luncheon and Book meet her and look forward to a long Competition FAWLaunch was Annual jam-packed with Awardsassociation with her Luncheon through our FAW. Secretary, Cate activities this year. I am sure we had The usual formalities followed Plink, and then an increase in attendance, so thank and we met three of the competition graciously you everyone. winners of the five. David Campbell acknowledged We attempted some changes to flew in from Melbourne and graced the FAW for the appeal to more members with the us which was a treat because we all opportunity to new venue and earlier date and after know ‘of’ David’s talent … let’s face enter her story. Although only in some teething troubles whereby we it he has won or placed in nearly all Primary school, she spoke with were ushered into a different room of our Branch competitions, which confidence and was applauded to what we had booked, everyone showsWriters what Voice a high and consistent appreciatively for her words. coped with the somewhat cramped standard his writing is. David praised Also with me was one of the conditions and enjoyed the event. our bulletin and wished Secondary level winners, Keeley We were pleased to meet our new they had something similar in McAlinden who was accompanied by Patron, Patti Miller, who we feel has Victoria. her proud mother too. I was thrilled embraced her new role with us and is I sat with two of our Hilarie to meet these families with their keen to support us wherever she can. Lindsay young writer winners, Celine talented daughters and hope they Patti cheerfully read her Foreword Ng who flew from Western Australia enjoyed their special occasioncont. aspage 4… from our new FAW book and also with her loving, supportive parents, much as we enjoyed hosting them. spoke about herself by way of an just for the weekend. Celine accepted In This Issue… State Council News 3 FAW Branch Reports 5 Writers Unleashed Festival Report 11 Workshop: Get The Words Right 13 SWW Literary Luncheons 13 Roundup 14 Poets Voice 16 Literary Achievements 17 Competition Results 20 Writing Competitions 22 Prizewinning Short Stories: – Hilarie Lindsay Section 3 winner 23 – Central Coast Mona Brand winner 24 Branch Meetings and Contacts 26 Official guests at the FAW Annual Awards Luncheon being introduced by MC Trevar Langlands. The event was held this year at the City of Sydney RSL Club. More photos page 4. FAW Members’ Bookshelf 28 FAW NSW Inc. State Council: 2014 Delegates Meetings Fellowship Annual General Meeting
of Australian Next meeting: Saturday May 3, 2014, 10:00am at City of Writers NSW Inc. Sydney RSL Club, 565 George Street, Sydney. ForGeneral 2014 the Membership Executive Committee and and Subscriptions Branch Delegates will meet the first Saturday ABN 59 557 152 715 of May and November. Minutes are mailed to each Branch Secretary. General Enquiries: AFFILIATIONMembership is FEES open – to$40 anyone pa who has a love for writing – writers, whether amateur or professional – or anyone interested in promoting Australian literature. Mail: Branch Treasurer where a member attends Internet:FAW NSW Inc. meetings Full MembershipFellowship ($20 U21/Youth of Aust Rate) Writers. – due by PO Box 488, Rozelle NSW 2039 31Each DECEMBER Branch sets each it ownyear ANNUALand paid FEEto the Facebook: > . Cheques/money orders payable to > FAW Writing Fellows are listed here: Kay Bakon – 4321 0935 This annual award recognises FAW members confidentially recommended by their Branch Committees and approved by the DSA Assessment Committee. DSA Unit 801, Henry Kendall Gardens,> members will be honoured in the following way: a ceremony will be held at the 150 Maidens Brush Road, WYOMING NSW 2250 Outreach Program Convenor: Annual PresentationWriters’ Luncheon Voice and the successful candidates will be presented Writers Voice Marjorie Barnard Award for his entry take this opportunity in our last ‘The Numbers Man’. I will be doing Our DSA awards were announced State forCouncil 2013 to wish one Newsa review of David’s poetry book in at theAlan lunch Russell by Maureen Kelly— and all a Happy Christmas and New the near future. David was most congratulations to all recipients: Year and Happy Holiday. impressed with our NSW FAW and for his work at his It has been a very busy year and it the enthusiastic members as well as local Eastwood/Hills Branch; Alan Iculminated as usual with our Awards the Fellowship amongst everyone. has always been a willing worker in Luncheon at the Sydney RSL. Thank Carolyn Cash and some of her all capacities. Alan has held many you to the many people who came to Isolated Writers were present. positions of responsibility and has join us and what a wonderful day of Wonderful to meet up with Raymond always been a constant support to Fellowship it turned out[see to be. front Beltrami, Jim Norris, Keith Youman, members as well as having a good Ipage cannot report get andover photos the wonderful next page]. Dudley Skelly and of course David background knowledge of the FAW, camaraderie of the day Campbell who is also an Isolated havingGavin been Austin on the State Committee Writers member. Thank you to so many years. We also launched our new writers’ many Branch members for being part of Bondi Writers resource book by Colleen Parker. Thanksof a wonderful to all Committee day. members Group (Eastern Suburbs FAW). Colleen has put over 2 years work Gavin is Secretary and has been a into the book which will be of great member of the FAW since 2001. He help to all writers. Thank you so I would like to thank all the Committee has regularly attended meetings and much Colleen. The book looks super. for the past year—you have all been has held office bearer positions since I am sure it will be a terrific HELP to a fabulous Committee and have done 2004. He has always given valuable writers—it’s like having a little helper such a lot of hard work. I must say that support to members. sitting on one’s shoulder when you I have received many compliments on AlsoEileen to Backhaus:four DSA recipients from need that little extra inspiration. your behalf from various quarters. Eurobodalla FAW … It was nice to see Dr Hilarie I thank Members and Committees Member for 14 Lindsay AM and Dr John Shepherd in our Branches for keeping the dream years; Committee Secretary 12 years; at the lunch, always good company. going, this historic organisation which EditorialMavis CommitteeHayes: member 3 years Thank you to Hilarie who bought a is steeped in Australian literature and and Publicity Officer for 2 years. round of wine for everyone so we its wonderful personalities. So many 18 years a member, could toast the 85th birthday of the famous names have been associated with regular attendance; head of FAW. Wonderful! with the FAW over its long years. catering for 16 years; Editorial I thank Patti Miller for being a It’s wonderful that some of our Committee 3 years; involved with Patron and being so hands-on with Branches have managed to include AnthologiesMargaret and Barlow: organising Judges for everything; you can learn a lot from younger people into their groups; not competitions for 5 years. this lady. I hope you can inviteChild her to an easy thing to do but most essential member for Theyour mind Branch of a meetings thief for a workshop. as none of us are here forever— 15 years, President for 6 years; head Patti Miller’s current books and except in spirit! of EditorialMargaret Committee Ekin: 3 years; ran are for sale. I wish all the winners of our workshops; Publicity Officer 2 years. I was delighted to meet David Competitions warmest congratulations A regular for 19 Campbell from Melbourne. David and hope that you will continue on years; Treasurer for 6 years; Publicity was winner of the esteemed FAW with your writing dreams. Officer for 2 years. TrevarAll these Langlands, wonderful, Statepeople President keep the wheels turning … thank you one and all. Apology: Distinguished Service Award Irene Acland* Meryl Bentley* Mavis Hayes Dr John Sheppard Unlock the Writer Within Denise Aldridge HonourElaine Burton Roll Margaret Jackson Margot Shugg is available Patricia Allen Ken Challenor John Jacobs Barbara Snel at only $30, postage and handling Gavin Austen Jan Dean Pat Lindsay Dorothe Squires- $10. Members will note that pre Barbara Aylott Beryl Dundas Peter F Pike Cooper book launch, this cost was quoted as Eileen Backus Margaret Ekin Margaret Robinson Frank Urban $7. It was hoped we could continue Margaret Barlow Thelma Flower Alan Russell Margaret Wilkinson this ‘special’ but due to higher than Miriam Bates Eileen Gray Albert Scott Margaret Young predicted postage charges to mail Cyril Bentley* Pip Griffin Bridget Sharp *Deceased the book to you safely and securely, weMaureen have been Kelly, forced, Hon. regrettably, Secretary to increase postage and handling to $10. Visit us on the Internet at www.fawnsw.org.au WRITERS’ VOICE 242—December 2013 3 Dr Hilarie Annual Awards Luncheon Lindsay am cont. from front page proposes and presented with a box of flowers a toast to by Maureen for my contribution of celebrate the State Council Newsproducing the book. Then a surprise 85th year of Finally I want to congratulate each toast to me which humbled my effort the FAW. of my fellow committee members for because although it was over two the volunteer work they do because years of work, I loved doing it. From it takes many hours, days, weeks and Helen Luiden’s concept to produce a For those who have already got their months working behind the scenes Resource Book, I was single-minded copy please use it, don’t just let it sit to make all these things happen. On in the goal being achieved. I owe a on your bookshelf and for those who such a day as we just experienced huge debt of gratitude to our Writers have not taken the opportunity yet one could be forgiven for believing Voice editor who was there all the to order for yourself, your branch that it was just a simple luncheon, but way with me. Ken was involved in and your library, we look forward to without my wonderful co-committee the selection of the original topics, receiving your order soon. it would not be so. Thank you Trevar, the layout, the cover production Thank you everyone for entrusting Helen, Maureen (especially), Cate and from my concept and so together the project with me and I wish you a Kay too and Carolyn Cash as well as as we developed the manuscript it lifetime of helpful support for your Barbara, it takes many hands to push was essential to have each other to writing. Please help the FAW by selling the wheelbarrow.UNLOCK THE WRITER WITHIN discuss the various issues as they to your branch members and selling Now to the BIG MOMENT, the arose. Thank you so much Ken. them at workshops and take every book We have sold or have orders for opportunity to do your bit towards which was launched by Patti and more than a third of our print run, so thisColleen major fund-raisingParker effort. myself. I was thrilled to receive such we are pleased so many writers are Merry Christmas everyone, appreciative words from Trevar recognising the value of the content. At the Annual FAW Awards Luncheon, above l to r: Colleen Parker thanks Patti Miller, Maureen Kelly presents a DSA Award to Alan Russell, and to Gavin Austin. 4 WRITERS’ VOICE 242—December 2013 Visit us on the Internet at www.fawnsw.org.au From the Hon Sec so much information for members also being available on the FAW have now been the FAW NSW State as does the website managed by website Blue Mountains FAW Our second workshop for the Thomas. Janelle, an artist of some W year was held on Sunday 22nd renown, studied the art of painting JOURNEYSFAWe are in theBranch throes of finalising Reports September. The subject for the day for many years at the ‘School of our new anthology called was ‘Show and Don’t Tell.’ Jill Mather, Classical Art’ in Sydney. but we still have foundfortieth the facilitator for the day, had those The picture is being painted in theanniversary time to party! On Sunday 1st present reaching for pen and paper. oil and will be approximately three November we celebrated our The purpose of the workshop was quarter life size. Helen was thrilled with special guest to demonstrate what ‘show’ actually that Janelle selected her as the HilarieDavid Lindsay. Berger Lots of food and drink means using active language and subject for her painting and will and a good time had by all. could well be described as image appear in the picture with her much CENTRAL COAST FAW writing. At the conclusion of the day loved dog KirstyVaila’s on her Capri, lap. Janelle we all came away from the meeting informed me that after reading with explicit knowledge on how to Helen’s novel, she make our future writing far more became convinced that Helen would We had an excellent response to our interesting to our readers. be an ideal study for the portrait. biennial Mona Brand Short Story At the time of writing Helen and The picture, which I understand Competition. Although entries were Johan are out of the country for some will be completed in approximately slightly down on previous years the time enjoying a journey through two months, is to be entered in three competition was very successful China, Vietnam and Cambodia. We to five art competitions. Although with several entries received from wish them Bon Voyage. In their most unlikely, Janelle would like writers in remote areas of Australia. absence Pat Lindsay will assume the to think that it could be selected This year, for an additional fee, position of President and will offer to compete for the Archibald prize. writers were offered the option of constructive criticism on stories Naturally, most of us would like the requesting a written analysis of their[See read by members at our November opportunity to view the painting Competitionstory from our Results appointed in this judge,issue]. Jill meeting. when it’s completed. Janelle has Mather, which was well received. Helen Ross, our esteemed and promisedPaul Radcliffe to notify me when this is well loved senior club member is possible. having her portrait painted by Janelle Visit us on the Internet at www.fawnsw.org.au WRITERS’ VOICE 242—December 2013 5 Eastern Suburbs FAW [Bondi Writers] poetry. Gavin and Dorothy read our resident wag, Barry Lake, from poetry to their group. Anne, Susan, writing hilariously about bad sex! FAW Branch ReportsErica and Sunny read prose to the Our members-run 15 minute Q&A The past few months have been a other group. All members were sessions are continuing. Every two very busy time for Bondi Writers. pleased with the feedback they months, a member is an “expert” on a The guest speaker for our August received and felt it would help them writing tip. Some take the form of a meeting was Professor Mark Onslow. to work further on their pieces. mini-workshop, others a presentation. He works at Sydney University Frankie also advised the meeting This is a useful way of getting answers as a widely published research that he had booked the Theory Room to questions about writing. specialist in stuttering, especially for the 2014 meetings and that he After five years in the saddle, related to children. His academic wouldAnne be Skyvington applying for a grant from our wonderful Publicity officer, work in particular has required the Waverley Council. Louise Falcioni, has stepped down him to develop his own word EASTWOOD/HILLS FAW from the committee. Her legacy is processing skills over the years and enormous—a meticulous record he kindly came to offer us some of our activities and a modestly- advice in this area. With a friendly named Brag Book full of photos and and funny approach Mark advised Eastwood/Hills FAW has had an individual achievements. Thank you, us on many key issues involved in interesting and productive final Louise, for a job well done. word-processing. This covered set quarter. Members engaged in a wide I am the new Publicity officer and up, documents back-up and storage, range workshops sharpening both Dianne Wiggins has taken up the typing methods including, for those our emotional awareness and writing Secretary’s role. who have significant trouble typing, skills. Thanks go to Laura Davies, We couldn’t miss an opportunity a voice recognition programme Beverly George and Julie Thorndyke to welcome Ian McHugh, from the converting spoken words into text. for conducting the workshops Canberra Speculative Fiction Guild, Mark also covered pre-determined on Writing Trauma, Haiku and back to the coast to run another document formatting and discussed Writing Professional Book Reviews, workshop after his very successful the benefits of this. respectively. one in 2012. This time Ian took us In other business we were We would like to welcome new through practical exercises on how to informed that the open short story member Cherilyn Ribbons, and thank develop the arc of a character through- competition had been a huge success her for bravely volunteering to be our out a story. Once again, Cat Sheely with 102 entries received. We were new Secretary, at the October AGM. provided accommodation for Ian. then able to hold the Seagull Award, ArtelleOur final Lenthall meeting of the year was This followed the workshop in our in-house short story competition our Christmas Party on 7th December. August givenABC Openby Vanessa Program, Milton, from later in the year. EUROBODALLA FAW SE Regional ABC which runs the very The September Annual General popular writing Meeting was very well planned and 500 words on a given topic for the executed by the President, Frankie month and posting it on the website. Dowling. Objectives for the group “Stories are the creative conversion It’s always interesting to see what for the coming 12 months were of life itself into a more powerful, other people do with the same topic. established based on feedback from clearer, more meaningful Vanessa’s tips—jump right into the members. The planning for 2013/14 experience. They are the currency story, use sensory detail to paint an continued month by month with of human contact.” (Robert McKee) atmospheric scene and maintain suggestions from the President and some suspense—are useful for longer from the floor. Dorothy Paramore Our group, meeting twice a month, pieces as well. ABC Open raised the question of catering more continues to be inspired to write on ProgramCongratulations to Vicki Mennie for poets in the group rather than a wide range of topics and to share for being chosen by the the focus being largely on short their stories at our meetings. All are to read her story (out story writers and novel writers. It entertaining, many humorous, others of 182 entries) on October’s topic, was suggested that we should hold a poignant, and we are the richer from ‘Failure’, on Radio National. This is the poetry competition for members. We sharing and discussing them. Twice second time this year that Vicki has all agreed to take this suggestion on a year we have on-the-spot writing, received this honour. I was delighted board for the coming year. Members with a line taken at random from a to receive 2nd place in the Ulladulla/ also nominated themselves for book as stimulus. Last month, our Milton EscapeARTfest short story contributing to our newsletter for President, Tony Maynard, opened at competition, writing on the theme, the coming 12 months. The incoming the line “The sex wasn’t that good.” ‘Flow’. As we all know, affirmation is a committee for 2013/14 was selected. After a quick look at everyone’s universally positive thing for writers! At the October meeting members faces he opted for the second line We are always on the lookout for split into two groups for the feedback instead, “I paused.” This didn’t stop ways of boosting our funds for such session, one for prose and one for things as workshops and anthologies, 6 WRITERS’ VOICE 242—December 2013 Visit us on the Internet at www.fawnsw.org.au and have revived a past idea with became friends. Concurrently Vera Isolated Writers now has around some success—a raffle once a month and Dorothy won the Mary Gilmore 50 members, although we were sad and a ‘trading table’ at the other Award, Vera for a beginner writer to hear of Beverley Laming’s passing monthly meeting. Members bring in and Dorothy for an experienced earlier this year. goods to be ‘traded’ for a small fee. writer. Vera showed us her beautiful UnlockColleen The Parker Writer launchedWithin, her It’s an excellent way to share pre- medal on its stand. It was interesting essential writing resource book, loved books, but also home-made to learn the current Mary Gilmore at the produce. Award for the best first collection Annual Award Christmas Lunch on Our webmistress has been busy of poetry had a former life. Vera 2013. Contributors included fellow setting up the submission guidelines returned to live at Stockton after Isolated Writers (both past and MUTABLEand main fundraisingSTATES Changes,avenue for our her husband’s death and won the present) Rae Luckie, Ron Stevens, 2014 20th Anniversary Anthology, Ribbons of Steel Prose Competition, Barbara Snel, Doreen Bolton, Diane (or for awarded in 1999 to commemorate the Fordham, and Sharon Hammad. short!). A short video has been made closure of BHP. She still writes and is Well done on helping make this book Kickstarter,and an advertisement for us to use an active member of local history and a reality. Crowdsourcing through the online conservation groups, including the Congratulations to David Campbell is ready to hit the web. reforestation of Ash Island. for winning the 2013 Marjorie Barnard Our resident poets, Barry Lake Along with two other poets, Award. For more information about and Robin McPherson, pleased the three of our membersThird Louise Wednesday Berry, David, including his latest book, crowds once again at the popular PoetsJosephine Tregellis and Gail Hennessy please visit Our Group’s membership, while maintaining a steady core number, is fluctuating like a quantum soup. Longstanding members blink out, with some ‘popping up’ again recharged, while new members appear out of the vacuum to maintain Mudgee Valley attendees at Dr Rae Luckie’s Memoir/Life Story Writing workshop. and reenergise the prime mass. Contrary to normal quantum theory, 8 WRITERS’ VOICE 242—December 2013 Visit us on the Internet at www.fawnsw.org.au Mudgee Valley Writers branch would like to produce an on our website At the launch of Stroud FAW’s anthology, ‘High Heels and Hob Nail Boots’ (story next page) … l to r: Kerry Stroud and Amanda Serrano with one of the special needs children; Dr Jean Griffiths who launched the book; Bill Merchant reading an extract from his story. Visit us on the Internet at www.fawnsw.org.au WRITERS’ VOICE 242—December 2013 9 Port Stephens [photos previous cont. from previous page page]. Mittagong areas, in the fields of script planning and effort writing, acting and directing. As with any task undertaken FAW Branch ReportsPoets Ken Challenor and KerryLittle by a group of individual personalities, that I loaned her twenty odd years MountainMiller joined Reading well-known writer Mark all decisions had to be debated and ago. It took me weeks to work up Tredennick at the inaugural decided by the majority. The birth enough courage but finally I turned it at Sturt, Mittagong pains of producing a bonny bouncing on. Oh what joy and even the carbon on November 30, presenting their book cannot be understated, however ribbon works like new. Strange, the poetry in the charming setting of on Saturday 19th October in the computer seems really useful now Sturt Cottage and gardens. midst of bushfire and emergency, we and the Brother has gone back into We are most fortunate in already delivered. The Stroud Writers’ fifth storage! having several first-class speakers book was launched in New Lambton With the bush burning all around who have agreed to talk to members with Dr. Jean Griffiths doing the us our thoughts turn to fellow at some of our meetings in 2014 and honours, ably assisted by our own members who have been affected. areMargaret looking forward Symonds to the new year Keith Franks as M.C. Port Stephens group wish you all the with enthusiasm. Several of the writers read short very best during this dreadful time. STROUD WRITERS extracts of their work and these PleaseBruce let Flanagan us know if we can assist in readings were interspersed with any way. wonderful guitar music from a very SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS FAW talented young lady. John Potts as Such an exciting finish to a busy always was ready with a poem to and fruitful year! For the Stroud open the proceedings. We enjoyed group, the last quarter has brought good company and a delicious We in the Southern HighlandsWriting a full range of highs and lows. We spread of cakes, sandwiches and Fiction.continue to enjoy reading the Gotham send love and best wishes to our other goodies for afternoon tea. It Writers’ Workshop book, dear Lila Butler and her husband was planned to have two ‘satellite’ We find it to be an excellent Bernie. This wonderful couple have launches, the first at Stroud in source of ideas for our individual swapped their rural property for the November followed by Clarence Town writing, and at most meetings we comfort and ease of Stroud Lodge. in December. do some group exercises based on Lila has since had a fall and injured A busy year sees all of us feeling the various chapters. Group writing her foot, but is receiving expert care the need for a little relaxation over of dialogue, with the first two lines and is on the mend. Get well Lila, we the Christmas break. To our fellow given, led to hilarious conversations need your melodious voice reading writers we send best wishes for a between confirmed criminals and those wonderful stories. We have warm, loving holiday season spent in those with criminal intent. welcomed several new members and the company of those you love. We Our September workshop on we embrace the diversity their talents look forward to hearing from you the writing of novels, conducted by bring to our meetings. Membership next year and I am sure there will be Richard Harland, was of immense now stretches from Newcastle to plenty of ink left in those pens. assistance to all who attended. Raymond Terrace, Clarence Town and TrishHappy Van writing Eyk from all of us at Most of our writing now is directed beyond. The Stroud Writers Group. towards providing a ten minute piece OldCongratulations Mechanic. to Peter Uren who Wollondilly FAW to entertain at our Christmas meeting has self published his first book, or towards writing short stories, The launch was held poetry, memoirs or short plays for at Raymond Terrace Library with our 2014 Anthology. Federal Member for Patterson, Bob The silly season is upon us. We the Actress and writer, Barbara Baldwin, formally sending the book Wollondilly branch love to party. Our Angell, addressed our July meeting, on its way. We had an enjoyable December meeting is something describing in most interesting morning, John Potts read a poem he to look forward to. This year our detail her approach to writing the wrote just for the occasion and Peter Christmas get together will be biography of the Australian film and himself read an extract from the book. held at Chez Mulligan’s an off-beat stage actress, Carol Browne. We all share Peters’ excitement and roadhouse where anything goes. Karen Williams, Trade Marketing wish him every success. It seems you Just imagine a combination of the Manager of Allen and Unwin, spoke can’t keep a good man down because following; a gathering of gourmet at our October meeting, giving a another book is already in first draft. chefs and cooks whose epicurean fascinating insight into the modern Go Peter! delights tantalise tastebuds together approach to publishing. Angst and feverish activity has with an abundance of the grape and A number of our members are been the themeHigh of our Heels meetings and Hob the grain throwing caution to the enjoying increased involvement in Nailover Boots this last quarter. The launch of wind allowing the more inhibited to film-making and community drama our anthology, share their poetry and stories, and in the Bundanoon, Bowral and has taken a great deal of like magic everyone comes off a 10 WRITERS’ VOICE 242—December 2013 Visit us on the Internet at www.fawnsw.org.au winner. No we are not a gaggle of old hopefully Mr. Trevar Langlands the Our Monthly Meetings continue to soaks we simply love each other’s NSW President of FAW presenting the inspire new writing ideas such as … company and we have so much to prizes. August: Mei-Ling Venning provided celebrate. On behalf of my friends and an intriguing activity with the chance In retrospect we at Wollondilly colleagues here in Wollondilly Shire element at its core inSleeping which members Beauty Shire have had a really good year. may I wish each and every one of you had the chance to play Carabosse and Despite the heartbreak of lost a happy and peaceful Christmas and the Lilac Fairy from members and some unexpected NewOlivia Year Mulligan and we hope you will all in novel and challenging situations. illness we managed to hold it have enough for the coming year. September: Derek Recsei provided together and produce some winners WYONG WRITERS an exercise based on writings from at various national competitions. Our well-known writers ranging from latest being Vince Morrison our Vice Antoine de Saint-Exupery to Jane PortPresident Stephens whose Examiner story ‘Just Good Austen in order to appreciate the Housekeeping’ came second at the Two new members have joined wide range of techniques used and Literature Wyong Writers recently—we extend hence to stimulate our own creativity. Awards. a hearty welcome to John and Phil, October: After our AGM, John We also managed to squeeze some both of whom are already sharing Beaver gave a very creative workshop funds from a local company to help their talent and making their mark. on the theme ‘Dare to be Different’, fund our planned 2014 anthology. Wyong Writers participated in where participants needed to create a The stories and poetry are all the Grandparents Day organised by short story in the first person with a submitted to the committee who are Wyong Shire Council. Shirley Goodbar provocative theme and within busy choosing the best from the best. and Mavis Gunter read their Short challenging constraints. This put A little bird tells me they are having a Stories and Margaret Young read a participants in a creative mood for the tough time deciding what to publish Poem about her grandfather, all to group writing exercise that followed, as the quality of the material is pretty spontaneousOutside Edge applause. thereby ending the afternoon on a note good. Mei-Ling Venning has completed of considerable hilarity. Our other exciting event is the her manuscript of just Regarding our upcoming In-House local Children’s writing competition. over 100,000 words. She now intends prose competition, we can choose We have had over seventy entries to have a break from this particular between two different themes, ‘Mystery’ from various schools and at time of workScribblers: before returning to it for final or ‘Bushfires’. Let’s hope that the very writing our committee is meeting editing and publishing in a few months. real and present danger of the NSW to agree on the winners. A planned Critiquing sessions bushfiresDerek Recseiis well and truly doused prize giving ceremony will be held in are made available each Monday for before the competition deadline. o February 2014 at the Picton Hall and those members wanting support and we will be having the Lord Mayor and feedback on their creative writing. Writers Unleashed 2013 T his was the fifth writers festival organised under the banner of FAW NSW Sutherland Branch but open to anyone who loves writing, regardless of where in the world they live. The Festival ran from 16-18 November this year. It was far and away the best of our Writers Festivals so far, with two full days of a three strand program held in the serviced and catered facilities of Gymea cont. next page… Tradies Club. Comedy writer Tim Ferguson (centre) and Sutherland Branch President Helen Armstrong (right) meet some fantasy characters from Lizbeth Klein’s book launch at Sutherland Shire’s WRITERS UNLEASHED Festival. Visit us on the Internet at www.fawnsw.org.au WRITERS’ VOICE 242—December 2013 11 Writers Unleashed cont. from previous page The Sutherland Shire Writers Festival, Originally known as this event began in 2009 as a means Graphic: Visit us on the Internet at www.fawnsw.org.au WRITERS’ VOICE 242—December 2013 13 Tea Gardens launch of a nineteen-fifties ‘who-dun-it’ manuscript of the collection was Roundup awarded First Commended, Best First Book , and IP Picks Awards 2012 TheBowerbird, launch of North Arm Cove FAW under the working title ‘Sphinx’. member Garry Boyd’s fourth novel, The launch was at the Friends in took place at Tea Gardens, Hand hotel Glebe and the capable MC situated on the northern foreshore was Anne Skyvington, past President of Port Stephens which is also the of Bondi Writers Group. The hotel is setting for this innovative and Bob Baldwin MP (left) with Garry Boyd a wonderful old building with plenty exciting ‘who-dun-it.’ at the Tea Gardens book launch. of atmosphere and a very big crowd Launched on November 10, 2013 attended. at Tea Gardens Hotel by Federal We were entertained with various Member for Paterson, BowerbirdBob Baldwin, The launch was attended by fellow readings and a few questions and Parliamentary Secretary to the writing group members as well as answers from Carol. I managed to Minister for Industry, is residentsBowerbird from Tea Gardens, Hawks chat to several FAW members and set in the sleepy fishing village of Tea Nest and surrounding areas. some who will be rejoining in 2014. Gardens in 1954 where the peace is is available for $20 Carol has a very unique way of shattered when Jack ‘The Bowerbird’ plus postage by phoning Garry on writing and brings her character Malone is found dead downstream, 0404 279 579, or email him at into your life in an amazing reality. I brutally bashed. Society of Women Writers Weekend: “Women Making History” Rescheduled for 14–16 March 2014 The Women Writers Weekend is going ahead as originally planned. Brahma Kumaris Inner Space Centre, Wilton Be inspired by outstanding writers. Skill-up and learn about new genres, workshop, network and further your writing in a glorious setting for writers and writing. One very talented new speaker is Jesse Blackadder who won the 2011/12 Australian Antarctic Arts Fellowship and travelled to Antarctica to research her novel Chasing the Light. There are a few twin share places available so invite a friend. To book: email Pam Bayfield at 14 WRITERS’ VOICE 242—December 2013 Visit us on the Internet at www.fawnsw.org.au Society of Women Writers NSW Inc. Book celebrates World War II Brides LAUNCH EVENT for DI YERBURY UK RESIDENCY 12 February 2014 Members Room, Mitchell Wing, State Library of NSW SWW patron, Professor Di Yerbury (pictured) has generously offered the use of her one bedroom furnished flat in Barnstaple, North Devon for a female writer who must: • be a member of the Society of Women Writers (NSW) for at least six months at the time of Robyn Arrowsmith (centre) with five of the Australian WWII War Brides, ages ranging from 88 to 92. submitting their application. • be over 55 years of age at the time All the way to the USA: Australian of taking up the residency. WWIIRobyn War Arrowsmith, Brides a member of Southern Highlands FAW, had her first • be researching or writing a launching on American soil of her book manuscript that is set in the at the Annual Reunion of the World War II War Brides’ United Kingdom. Association at the Holiday Inn, New Orleans, Louisiana, on September 29. The residency is for a period of three The second launching was a book-signing at The Accent Club in Keizer, months from February to April 2015. Oregon, on October 5. Robyn was guest speaker at both events and sold 40 Information and application forms paperbacks and 10 hardbacks, and received orders for more. will be available on 12 February 2014 at the Literary Lunch of the Kandos book launch Society of Women Writers. UNLOCK THE WRITER WITHIN The Kandos Returned Services is a valuable resource for all writers; amateur CommunityRocky Club Mountain was packed Spirit: and professional. Ato Social capacity History at the of recent Kandos book Topics include: launch of • Short story, crime & by romance, poetry, Pamela O’Connor (pseudonym articles, memoir, ‘Kay Andos’). 150 of the Kandos books were pre-sold prior to the launch. family history. Attended by Colin Jones MP, • eBooks. the launch was conducted by • Punctuation and grammar. renowned Kandos poet Terry • Copyright, ISBN, CiP, Barcode. Yates, supported by Des Kelly who played the Didgeridoo. The FAW presents numerous topics of This book was a culmination of four years of work in which the author interest in one publication. covered the history of Kandos and pre-war data from the 1880s through Just ‘GO TO’ the help you need to the present day, unearthing new material. The name was selected to to continue enjoying the writing represent Rocky Mountain that was climbed by children daily during the experience and you will … Unlock the Writer Within. first half of the century. The last part of the name represents the Spirit of the Cost: $30 plus $10 p&h. people who built this small country town to be proud of. Pam has included Cheques payable to Fellowship of Aust the Genealogy lines of one hundred and fifty people whom she interviewed Writers. To order your copy, contact: to compile their stories, including early aboriginal descendants and a diary Hon. Secretary FAW NSW, from their Great Grandmother who as a child came with her father to help PO Box 488 ROZELLE NSW 2039 build the Works. Phone: 0417 403 720 The Works, mines and quarries have all shut their doors, leaving the SUBMISSIONS FOR POETS VOICE Please send your poem to: The Poetry Editor, Writers Voice PO Box 195, LAWSON NSW 2783 Include SSAE for a response. Or, send a Word attachment by email to David Berger 16 WRITERS’ VOICE 242—December 2013 Visit us on the Internet at www.fawnsw.org.au Blue Mountains FAW Ribbons Liliana Reljic vol. 9 (1) Spring/Summer 2013 p. 57; Rhyming through the alphabet. Kernels Rengay ‘Whispers in the Grove’ with Gerry Jacobson Peter Miller’s published a children’s book entitled Literary AchievementsKernelspublished Summer 2013; short story was highly commended at the Rengay ‘A Fistful of Barbs’ with Michelle Brock published Penrith Eistedford. Summer 2013; Araki & The Dreamcatcher BONDI WRITERS 2 haiku in 5th Yamadera Basho Memorial Museum [EASTERN SUBURBS FAW] Haiku Collection July 2013; by Carol Chandler: Beverley George, illustrated by Tumi K Steyn published: Black Mountain, signing at Book Bazaar Umina; Never Ending Offset Story;readings at Ettalong School; Excerpt Black Mountain, novel in progress published Haiku publishedA Hundred in English Gourds and Chinese on FourW Excerpt Anonymous novel in progress Caller published TankaKokako in 2:4 2013; Cynthia Rowe: Rengay ‘Weeping Tiger’ with Kent Robinson published in Short story collection, published. Eucalypt 19 2013 [NZ]; Joint first place tankaGusts ‘Diogen pro cultura’, Summer in the 2 tanka publishedWorld in Haiku Review 14 2013; City [Croatia]; 2 haiku awarded Neo-Classical Zatsuei Haiku of Merit and 3 tanka publishedGusts in 18 2013 [Canada]; published in World Haiku Review August 2013; review by Susan Constable of ‘Wind through the haiku awarded ShintaiTake Haiku Five: HonourableBest Contemporary Mention Tanka, and Wheatfields’, 18The 2013 Tanka [Canada]; Journal published in August 2013; 5 tanka translated into Japanese by Aya Yuhki and pub tanka published in A Hundred Gourds lished bilingually in # 43 2013 [Japan]; Volume 4 Kindle Edition; Presentation for poetry meeting (co-written with Carmel haibun ‘Rocamadour’A published Hundred Gourds in Summers) given at Society of Women Writers NSW Inc. 2:4 2013; A Hundred Gourds Sept meeting, State Library of New South Wales; 2 haiku published in Haibun 2:4Today 2013; October workshopI-News: The presentation Bilingual Imabari for Eastwood/Hills Information Issue tanka published 2:4 2013; Fellowship of Australian Writers October 2013; FreeXpresSionhaibun ‘Frankfurt’ published in 7:3 2013; Haiku in The Tanka Journal tan renga with Luciana Vladimir publishedKokako in 94 2013 [Japan]; Vol XXKokako Issue 9 2013; 5 tanka presented bilingually in 43, 2013 [Japan]; haibun ‘Tealeaves I’100 published Tanka By in 100 Poets #19; Of Australia & Mariposa Newhaiku Zealand: published in #19; 1Helena tanka andHamilton: 2 rengay written with David Terelinck, tanka published in published 29 2013 [US]; one poem each anthology; Given an ‘kayaking’ordinary stone; haiku Commended New Zealand Poetry Society SharedPhilippa 1st Holland: Place Eastwood/Hills FAW Monthly Competition 2013, published in NZPS anthology Competition ‘Writing about Trauma.’ ‘Early Morning Heat’ renku written with John Carley, 1stDavid Place Terelinck: Eastwood/Hills FAW ‘Children’s Story in Verse’ SandraStinger Simpson, in a William Sugar Jar Sorlien, Lorin Ford—First Place, Monthly Competition. Bernard Lionel Einbond Renku Competition; Ribbons; novel new cover and republished Pennyweight Flat Responsive tanka sequence with Beverley George in on Amazon; Skylark novel published on Amazon and Kindle. Central Coast Branch Responsive tanka sequence withMoonbathing Kate Kituai 8 in Skylark Helen Luidens Tanka Journal; 2 tanka andRed a book Lights review of in Pat Lindsay had an article printed in the Central Coast Tanka Journal; Pottery Society Newsletter. 3 tanka in Tanka Journal; was appointed Judge for Hilarie Lindsay’s A responsive tanka sequence with Hazel Hall accepted for children’sEastwoo writingd/Hills competition. FAW LimestoneFjords Review Tanka Poets anthology; Elizabeth Collins: A responsive tanka sequence with Claire Everett accepted for in the U.S. The Sequence will also feature as performanceFire Pealspoetry 2: in Masterpieces their inaugural of Love Public and Poetry Passion; Series this year on the Internet; 2ndBeverley Place George:Eastwood/Hills FAW ‘Children’s Story in Verse’ Monthly Competition. 12 tanka in 2nd Prize and Commended in the Eastwood/Hillscont. next FAW page… Annual Literary Competition 2013; Jigsaw tanka response with David Terelinck published Visit us on the Internet at www.fawnsw.org.au WRITERS’ VOICE 242—December 2013 17 Eastwood-Hills cont. from previous page > Literary AchievementsVickie Walker: Creative Life Writing workshop at Mudgee (Sept. 2013). 1st and 2nd Place, responsively, with Beverley George in the 2013 Haiku Poets of North America Rengay competition; Won story of the month in August for ‘Miranda’s Folly’, David’s winning haiku from the 2012 Vancouver Cherry ElectricalMACART DiscountersHUR FAW online writing competition. Blossom FestivalGusts displayed on 500 posters on the Robert Bee: Vancouver public transportTanka Journal system during Spring 2013; 3 tanka in # 18; 100 Poets of Australia and 1New tanka Zealand; sequence in (Japan) #42; Astronomical articles ‘Saturn on Show’ and ‘Seeking the 1 tanka in 100 Tanka by Mariposa Cross’Bernard published Russell on Smith: Macarthur Astronomical Society’s website. 1 tanka published in 29 2013 [US]; Mariposa Writers Voice; First (Snapshot) & Second (Celluloid Moon) placed rengay Two poems ‘Mid-afternoon’ and ‘Rusty Pipe’ published in written with Beverley George published in 29 A2013 Solitary [US]; Woman; 1st Place in the Mona Brand Short Story Competition with Introduction to Pamela A. Babusci’s new tanka collection: ‘The Fervour’; 1st Place in FAWNS Super Short Story competition with Workshop presentation on ‘Link & Shift in Poetic Forms’ ‘She-Devil’. at Bowerbird Tanka Workshop on Sat. 19 October 2013; Mudgee Valley Writers Bob Campbell: SharedJan Westerink: 1st place Eastwood/Hills FAW Monthly Competition ‘Writing about Trauma’. Giant’s Leap: An Australian Activist’s Memoir Kevin Pye: —a book and 2nd Place Eastwood/Hills FAW Monthly Competition CD Launch at Mudgee Brewery 11th December. ‘WritingHunte aboutr FAW Trauma’. Jan Dean: ThirdJill Baggett: Place Nandewar Poetry Competition for ‘The Salvo’s Rabbit Mirror’ Dead Spot Poem ‘Dark Water Directions’ in (a journal of Play, in Sydney Short and Sweet 2014 Wildcard non-fiction poetry) issue 10, launched at Collective Works, Programme. EucalyptMelbourne on 28th November, 2013; NORTH ARM COVE appraisal of a tanka by Yosano Akiko publishedEucalypt on Garry Boyd: website, October 2013; Zeny Giles: Daughters of Castellorizo Bowerbird tanka ‘gold, maroon, fawn’ accepted for issue 15; Novel launched Fourth novel was launched at Tea Gardens, the Louise Berry, Josephine Tregellis Gail Hennessy setting for his 1950s who-dun-it; 23rd NovemberThird 2013. Wednesday Poets Highly commended award for a short story he entered in and Bob Bush: the Scribes Writers Competition, Victoria. included in their collection launchedIsolate atd WTorontoriter Librarys Bran onc 20thh November 2013. From a Bush Poet’s pen, Performed poetry August to November from his latest Carolyn Cash: book, at Woodlands Retirement Village, Medowie Probus Club, Singleton Rotary, Tilligerry Peninsula Probus Club, Lambton Senior Citizens, The ‘The White Queen’s Australian Debut’ (29 August 2013) Swansea Retirement Village, Newcastle Branch of National 18 WRITERS’ VOICE 242—December 2013 Visit us on the Internet at www.fawnsw.org.au Seniors Australia, Maitland Lioness Club, Muswellbrook Parker, Brian Tolagson and Frank Urban; with illustrations Mens Probus, Maitland North Probus, Raymond Terrace bySOU JoieTHE Black.RN HIGHLANDS FAW Senior Citizens, Order of the Eastern Star, Hunter Valley– Gregory Tome: NationalKerryan SeniorsGriffin AustraliaShawna and Hartley Frank Whiddon Masonic Home, Largs. How to help in Cambodia: An eBook Guide for Volunteers, Donors and Travellers and : TwoJan Kenny: poems, ‘One Life’s Detritus’ and ‘Refugee Camp’, published online by Narrator, Australia. Chucked Out, Maureen Kelly :—released exclusively as a Kindle ebook. Short play, selected with one other play from OAM Kenthe Bundanoon Challenor andCrash Kerry Test Finals,Miller: 2013, to be performed Awarded Life Membership to North Arm Cove FAW for in Sydney in 2014. loyal service since 1997. NORTH SHORE BRANCH Little Mountain Reading [FAWNS] Joined eminent poet Mark Tredennick reading their Richard Brookton: workRobyn at Arrowsmith: the inaugural at Sturt, Mittagong, on November 30. All the way to the USA: Think Positive for Kids; Australian WWII War Brides —[see Roundup]. Short story ‘A Different Sister’ published in the USA Launched her successful book Chicken SoupCountdown, for the Soul book, WYONG WRITERS in the USA award winning story ‘Nanna Knows’ published in the Beryl Stirling: JulyMarilyn issue Humbert: of the School Magazine of the NSW Department of Education and Communities. Scribblers’ Inc. Won The Hunter International Poetry Competition with Free verse poem ‘By the Lake’ awarded First Place in the Zine West her poem ‘The Swagman’s Ghost’,Bronze competing Swagman against poets poetry competitionContemporary in WA; Haibun from all over the world including the USA and Canada. free verse ‘Whisper’ published in 13; Beryl’s poem is included in the book; Margaret Young: haibun ‘Quarrel’ published in Haibun Today 1st and 2nd place in Wyong In-House Prose competition. (online); tanka prose ‘Nest’ published in (online). Derek Recsei: Port Macquarie-Hastings Highly Commended in Wyong In-House Prose competition. Colleen Parker: o Unlock the Writer Within Won the Wyong In-House Poetry competition. —edited by Colleen Parker; contributing authors from this branch Lou Parfitt, Colleen Call for Submissions Positive Words Magazine is seeking submissions of poetry and prose for the January 2014 issue of the monthly Ligare, the largest specialist book printer in NSW, is celebrating its 30th year serving magazine. Work on the theme ‘Writing the publishers of Australia. Our clients include many of the publishing companies within Groups’ will be appreciated and work Australia as well as a growing number of professional self-publishers. on any theme is always welcome. Send submissions and SSAE to: With a new Digital Print Facility, which can accommodate run lengths for The Editor, Positive Words self-publishers from 200 to 500, and offset printing which starts at run lengths of PO Box 798 500 up to 10,000+, Ligare can accommodate niche market and self-publishing HEATHCOTE 3523 VICTORIA. publications with ease. Deliver print-ready pdf files to us and we can deliver the For further information email books to you in under 3 weeks. LIgare Writers Voice Advert 0909 2.indd 1 9/10/09 9:06:23 AM Visit us on the Internet at www.fawnsw.org.au WRITERS’ VOICE 242—December 2013 19 Results: Bondi Writers Group Short Story Competition 2013 The story should not just drift to a conclusion, but some First Prize: ‘The War And Alice Faye’ by Keith Youman satisfying construction should end the story—perhaps a Competition Results surprise, or some connection back to the start, or an echo Second Prize: ‘Admit One’ by Debi Hamilton of the title—something other than just stopping the story. Highly Commended: Most good stories also have a balance of ‘telling’ and ‘The Birthday Party’ by Suzanne Gaskell ‘showing’, and also ‘discarding’ of irrelevant material. ‘The Wedgetail’ by Faie Dana Watson Having said this, there is nothing to stop a good story Commended: having an imbalance in this respect, as long as the ‘Coq Au Vin’ by Susan Beinart method used suits the story and is effective in providing a ‘Secrets From People’ by Maggie Veness believable and memorable experience for the reader. The author should be as invisible as possible—not distracting the reader by unexpected spelling, punctuation, or syntax. Results: Central Coast FAW Mona Brand The story needs to stay on theme, not jump about with irrelevant side excursions. Short Story Competition 2013 In the Memoir category, all of the above apply, but there First: ‘The Fervour’*, Bernard Smith. are additional requirements. The writing needs to have Second: ‘Pay Back’, Maria Bianco. an authentic feel to it. It needs to be written in the first Third: ‘Ninety Nine and Not Out’, Fay Boyd. person and to recall an event or a series of related events Commendation: ‘The Barbie that Broke the Drought’, in the writer’s life, which make some point which is of Lorna Brennan. interest to the reader. Simply writing a list of incidents * This winning short story is published elsewhere in this issue. which the authorCATEGORY remembers A—SHORT does not STORY produce a memoir. 1st Prize: ‘She-Devil’ by Bernard Russell Smith (NSW) Results: FAWNS SUPER SHORT STORY The She-Devil first appeared to the protagonist when he COMPETITION 2013 was a schoolboy. She surprised him when she introduced JUDGES’ REPORT: uncertainty into his black and white world. It was hot on the train, but he could not take off his coat because T it was school uniform and he was on an excursion. He his year there were 81 entries in Category A—Short 2ndcould Prize: never ‘The deviate Interchange’ from bywhat Maggie was Venessright. He(NSW) survived this encounter but the She-Devil never went away. Story, and 69 entries in Category B—Memoir. Highly Commended: ‘Daisy’s Dreaming’ by Letitia Kavanagh (Vic) For both categories the judges were asked to keep in Highly Commended: ‘The Box of Lost Souls’ by Edith Speers (Tas) mind the telling of the story. It should have a catchy title and an intriguing introduction. Characters in the story Highly Commended: ‘The Pledge’ by Gavin Austin (NSW) should act and speak in a realistic and consistent way, Commended: ‘A Dark, Dark Tale’ by Maddelyn Phillips (Vic) and the events or ideas portrayed need to be believable Commended: ‘The Letter’ by Jackie Mohr (NSW) and also consistent within the world of the story. It Commended: ‘The White Line’ by Cassie Hamer (NSW) should develop and carry the reader seamlessly through it, and by the end, some change in the characters or story CATEGORY B—MEMOIR situation should be evident. 1st Prize: ‘Bush Tucker’ by Jane McIntyre (NSW) The new teacher in the Territory school is slowly coming to terms with the red dust, the caterpillars, and the food stained desks. She is appalled to see two of her boys Short stories, novels, memoir, family history or non-fiction corner a wallaby in the school yard, beat it and swing pieces… if your work has reached the stage for professional it by the tail onto the playground surface. She is unable editing contact Purple Pen. 2ndto prevent Prize: ‘First the Love’animal by Margaretbeing killed, Campbell but the (Vic) incident is a lesson in differing cultures. Structural Edits: an overall approach to your manuscript Highly Commended: ‘…thoughts and remembrance…’ by Copy Edit: punctuation, spelling, grammar, Erica Woolgar (NSW) typographical errors, consistency of style Commended: ‘Pleasing Jim’ by Letitia Kavanagh (Vic) Email: 20 WRITERS’ VOICE 242—December 2013 Visit us on the Internet at www.fawnsw.org.au The following awards were announced at the FAW NSW Annual RESULTS: FAW NSW Hilarie Lindsay Luncheon, held at Sydney RSL Club on 23 November 2013 … Young Writers Short Story Competition 2013 for Australian School Children RESULTS: FAW NSW Marjorie Barnard Section 1: Years 10, 11 and 12 Short Story Award 2013 Winner: Paige Spence, Santa Maria College, WA for ‘Bo and Braces’ Winner: David Campbell, Victoria, for ‘ The Numbers Man ‘. Section 2: Years 7, 8 and 9 Announcing the result for the Marjorie Barnard Short Story Award, Winner: Keeley McAlinden, Brigidine College, St Ives NSW for ‘Greed’ competition judge Pippa Kay said she found the subject of the Section 3: Years 5 and 6 winning story to be a fascinating concept and congratulated David Winner: Celine Ng, Santa Maria College, WA for ‘The Katydid’s Story’ on yet another win in a FAW-sponsored Literary Competition. [Celine’s prizewinning story is reprinted on page 23]. Section 4: Year 4 & Under Winner: Georgia Sedlarevic, Rowville Primary, VIC ‘The Magic Shoes’ FAW Branch Newsletter Award WollondillyScribblings FAW won the 2013 FAW Branch Newsletter Award—for the second year running—for its newsletter ,Writers edited byVoice Narelle Noppert. “ScribblingsAnnouncing the winner at the FAW NSW Annual Luncheon, editor Ken Driver said, Marjorie Barnard Award winner David Campbell with Pippa Kay (left) is a digest of lots of member contributions— and FAW Competition Convenor Cate Plink. both short stories and poems—colour photos from branch events, meeting minutes, book reviews and writing tips. Each issue has a unique and creative treatment of the masthead, with a colour theme that follows through the publication. Finally, it is cleverly and economically bound into a small booklet form, averaging 20 to 24 pages per issue”. This Award is intended to encourage and acknowledge the efforts of newsletter editors and the members who contribute to their content. This annual competition is open to all Branches that produce a regular newsletter for distribution to their members. Congratulations to Narelle and the members of Wollondilly FAW for their regular contributions. Keeley McAlinden, Section 2 winner of the Hilarie Lindsay Young Writers competition, is congratulated by Cate Plink. Celine NG, Section 3 winner of the Hilarie Lindsay Young Writers competition, enchanted the audience with her humble but confident acceptance speech. ‘Scribblings’ editor Narelle Noppert accepts the Branch Newsletter award from Writers Voice editor Ken Driver. Visit us on the Internet at www.fawnsw.org.au WRITERS’ VOICE 242—December 2013 21 Closing date 30 June 2014: Closing date 30 September 2014: FAWNS Vibrant Verse Poetry FAWNS Super Short Story the name of the entry, plus your name Competition 2014 Competition 2014 and contact details, and also details of the payment you are making. WritingPique our interest with Competitions your poetry • Category A: The author’s name must not appear • Category A: • Category B: Super Short Story. on the story or memoir. Submissions must be the original • Category B: Free verse, open style, Memoir. work of the author, typed on single- open theme. A memoir is defined as a memory sided A4 paper with double spacing, Traditional, rhymed in the writer’s life of an incident, or and stapled together. Your entry must or structured verse, open style, a number of incidents relating to a not have won a cash prize at close open theme. single theme. of competition nor been submitted The same conditions apply for both The same conditions apply for both concurrently elsewhere. If this rule categories. Maximum 60 lines. categories. Maximum 700 words. is not adhered to the entry will be Prizes: 1st $200, 2nd $100, certificates Prizes: 1st $200; 2nd $100, Highly disqualified. awarded at judges’ discretion. Commended and Commended Judges’ decisions are final and no Entry fee:Fellowship $5 per poem.of Australian Cheques Writers or certificates. further correspondence will be Northmoney/postal Shore Branch, order should be made Entry fee: $5 for each story or entertained. out to Fellowshipmemoir entered. of Australian Payment Writers may be North Send entry with cover sheet and or entry fees can Shoremade Branchby cheque or money order to payment (or payment details if you be paid by direct deposit to: have used direct deposit) to: Fellowship of Australian Writers or by direct deposit to: Competition Convenor BSB 082 289, Account No. 50667 2584. Fellowship of Australian Writers 5 Clement Street No entry form required, but a BSB 082 289, Account No. 50667 2584. STRATHFIELD SOUTH NSW> 2136 separate cover sheet should be Enclose a business-size envelope For further information, email attached for each entry, containing SSAE if you would like a copy of the s they lower the coffin into the ground, I realise this is When I look around me, I am not alone anymore. There the last time I will ever see my beloved aunt again. My is a girl hovering at the bottom of the pool, her eyes open eyes start welling up with tears as I sink into my foldout without any goggles. She surfaces and I swim closer. chair. I seem to be the only one who hears the katydids “Hello,” I go up to her cautiously. chirp loudly, sadly. As people gather to throw the flower “Ah!” she screams and looks me head to toe. “Who are Apetals onto the coffin, I walk slower than anyone else. I you? What are you doing in my pool?” she asks me in a reach into my pocket and pull out my favourite picture of state of shock. my aunty and me at the pool. Clutching the picture to my I look closer at the stranger. She looks like the little girl chest, I push through the line and let the picture fall into in the photos in my Aunt’s room. Could she possibly be? the ground; the petals cover up my face and the rest of the Paying no more attention to me, she ducks underneath Goodbye,photo until Aunt only Lynn. my auntie’s face is seen. Then as I let the again and hovers at the bottom. She seems to be searching last petal trickle through my fingers, the picture is gone. for something. When she surfaces, I ask, “Are you looking for As I stare out the window on the way back from the something?” Lynn nods and looks at me worried. “I have cemetery, my mum says, “Tomorrow, we’re going to a very important swimming competition coming up and I France for a little holiday. We all need a break from all the lost my lucky goggles. I just told my mum that I will warm sadness.” Paying no attention to the scenery, I reply, “Yeah, up in my pool here, but I am really looking for my goggles.” whatever.” “Come into the house, I’ll show you a photo,” I say. In the plane, I carelessly sketch my aunt and me at When we arrive back at Aunt Lynn’s room, I look a pool holding first place ribbons. Aunt Lynn was a around for the photo with her wearing pink goggles. It has champion swimmer in her youth and she was always vanished! In place of that photo, is a picture of her at the there to coach me when I started to show my talent at Aquatic Centre, no medal. 6. She taught me every stroke I know. I feel a droplet of “I really need to find my goggles now,” she says saltwater run down my cheek. As the plane descends, I anxiously. “I have to leave for the competition in less than scrunch up the piece of paper and stuff it in my pocket. an hour!” She is pacing about. When we walk out of the airport, we board a coach to I suddenly remember finding her old goggles at the Lyon, where our grandparents’ house is. After a couple of bottom of her wardrobe. “Have you tried looking through hours, we arrive. The house is tall and the walls are made the bottom of your wardrobe?” I ask. of stone. The roof has old faded tiles. Feeling brighter and “Good idea,” she replies. “I’ll just get my towel outside, happier, I drop my bags and rush into the house to see then I’ll look in my wardrobe. I better go now or I’ll be late my Aunt’s old room. It looks like a teenager’s room filled for my competition!” with pictures of a little girl holding ribbons next to a pool. “Break a leg!” I exclaim and I give her a hug. One is a picture of young Aunt Lynn wearing a pair of pink “Merci Beaucoup!!” She calls out in French. With that, goggles and a medal. she runs down the stairs and I listen to the katydids chirp I wander over to the wardrobe. In the cupboard are old loudly once again. When she reaches the bottom of the clothes, too big for me, and a whole pile of pool towels on staircase, she disappears. “Lynn?” I call. What happened the floor. I rummage through the towels right to the very to my friend, the child that was my aunt? Sadly, I turn bottom and my hand curls around a pair of goggles, the around and go back into the room. I stare at the photos. same pair as the one in the photo. I pick up the goggle. It They are changing! is faded pink and the eyecup has a few scratches. “How The picture of her in her goggles with the medal is back. precious,” I think to myself. “It’s perfect for the Memory The girl in the photo looks brighter and happier and in Box I am making for my aunt.” every photo, holds a first place ribbon. I look at the table. My grandparents have a 10-metre pool behind their There is a piece of yellowed and brown paper under a pile house. Surrounding the pool are bushes and hibiscus of old books that I did not notice before. I pull it out, and flowers. This must have been where my aunt learnt to in careless ten-year-old writing, I read it. swim! I touch the sparkly water of the pool, trying to To the little girl in my pool, imagine my aunt as a child diving into that pool. Then, I Wherever you are, I want to thank you for all your help. change into bathers and slide into the crystal clear water. Love, Lyn 1980 From somewhere deep in the bush around the house, I smile and hold the note to my chest. It feels as if I haveo the katydids sing again. I duck under the surface and let said a proper goodbye to my beloved aunt. my hands run along the gravel at the bottom of the pool. Visit us on the Internet at www.fawnsw.org.au WRITERS’ VOICE 242—December 2013 23 The Fervour [This story won First Place in the 2013 Central Coast FAW Mona Brand Short Story Competition] PrizewinningBy Bernard Russell Smith Short Story ver breakfast, Commander Lincoln gently took his Perhaps Pastor Alman was right: They needed God. Who wife’s hand. “From here on, it’s going to be different. else was going to protect his family? Why don’t we spend the day together?” Yesterday, the Commander had made an announcement. They decided on the town of Aspen, circa 2000 AD. They had reached the point of no-return. It had taken Before entering the simulator, he looked around him at most of the Commander’s life. Otheir cozy apartment. Until now Adam had hardly given it a thought. His life “Thank you, Artemis,” he murmured. “Thank you for too—all of it. He slipped down by the side of the bed and keeping us safe.” buried his face in his hands. “Thank you, Commander.” His parents found him there shortly afterwards, still kneeling. He looked at them beseechingly. “I think we Sector 3, Apartment 4: Safely tucked-up in bed, fifteen- need to pray. I’m afraid.” year-old Adam gazed out the porthole. It was normal for Awkwardly, they got to their knees. Artemis to banish the darkness with a scene from home: a seascape, a field of waving wheat. Tonight it was a sea of First Officer Chandra was resting in his cabin when he fluffy pink clouds. heard a far-off voice: “Excuse me, Mr. Chandra. This is Commander Lincoln. Bear Lodge, Aspen, Colorado, circa 2000: Commander Are you feeling well? Artemis said you might have a Lincoln sitting in the sun-drenched ski-bar, observing the problem.” man and woman seated at the next table. So long as he Rather than springing to attention, Chandra suppressed respected the couple’s integrity, he was acting ethically. a yawn which the Commander pretended not to notice. He They and their emotions had ceased to exist long ago. As turned to Artemis instead: “Exterior conditions, Artemis?” had the town of Aspen. “Normal, Commander.” “I have a strange feeling, don’t you, Mr. Chandra? It may It was obvious from their easy way with one another be the same feeling that you have. I was wondering if you that the couple were close. They had the wan look of could describe it to me.” people living at the dawn of modern medicine; victims “There’s nothing to describe, Commander.” Chandra was of their own genes. God knows what diseases they were barely awake. harbouring. “If you had to choose a colour to describe it, what would The man glanced at the icy branches scraping against it be?” the window behind the Commander’s head. Lincoln “I don’t know. Faint pink?” shivered. He felt the coldness of space entering his bones. “Do you feel alright, Mr. Chandra?” He shrugged it off. He had stayed too“Excuse long on me, the frozen “I was afraid, Commander, but prayer has helped me.” Commander.mountain; that I have was something all. to report. There had been a “Thank you Mr. Chandra. You have been very helpful.” slightA gentle change voice in human sounded behaviour.” in his ear: Chandra continued to lie on his bed, eyes half-closed, gazing out the porthole. Next, the Commander spoke to the head psychologist, “What sort of change, Artemis?” Doctor Newman. “Less oxygen consumption; reduced physical activity; “We’ve had reports of unusual behaviour, Doctor altered sleep patterns.” Newman.” Outside the window, Sylvia was busy sticking a carrot Newman arched his wispy eye brows. on the face of a snowman. “Feelings of euphoria; small changes in behaviour: I’m He went out and broke the news to her. She could stay sure you’re aware.” if she wished. “Oh yes, I am aware, Commander,” Newman said vaguely. She decided to go home. The same matter was raised with his second-in-charge, Doctor Starr. The first thing Adam noticed on waking was the collection “It varies from person to person,” Starr said. “About ten of crystals laid out in the wall-niche opposite his bed; a percent of the passengers are affected at any one time. It souvenir of the recent Kruger 51 excursion. He recalled usually persists till something intervenes.” the exciting trek that he and his companions had made “Something?” through Planet Kruger’s Valley of Glass, the long wait for “Let me give you an example: My own son, Adam.” the dust storm to subside before they could be ferried “A very engaging young man. He took part in the recent home, and the feeling of relief that he had experienced Kruger excursion, didn’t he, Artemis?” on regaining the safety of the ship. Why then did he “Yes, Commander.” feel anxious? 24 WRITERS’ VOICE 242—December 2013 Visit us on the Internet at www.fawnsw.org.au “We found him kneeling by his bed this morning, in a yellows, the bright red of lamb’s blood… Everyone’s sort of trance. He insisted that we pray with him. He only childhood was there; everyone’s fondest wishes. The came out of it when he started feeling hungry.” Reverend watched, horrified, as a wave of hysteria swept “What did he have for breakfast?” through the congregation, some speaking in tongues, “Let me think. Pancakes… maple syrup…” others prostrating themselves on the crimson carpet “Ah,” the Commander said, “a taste of home. How do where they cried out for God’s forgiveness. A terrible people describe this feeling, Doctor?” crescendo of weeping and moaning, mixed with the “Pink, hazy, warm.” chanting of Mar’s two-hundred-strong Gospel choir, filled “How do they feel beforehand?” the building, flooding out the doorway into the vast car “Invariably they feel anxious.” park beyond. As the hapless pastor called on Artemis for help, the It was a miracle. In one morning, Pastor Alman’s congre- windows began to fade; replaced by the unadorned walls gation had doubled. What had caused this sudden increase of a simple rustic church. The enormous pipe organ in faith? So many souls had turned up for morning service faltered and fell silent. The bewildered congregation that he’d had to request a larger church. As a student of looked at one another. In small groups they began to Christian architecture, he was delighted. Over the years, wander out. he’d experimented with many ecclesiastical spaces, from Greatly alarmed, Alman requested an audience with the Byzantine to North American Commander. “I believe the Devil is among us, he said.” Gothic. He had even been tempted by some of the extravagant Lincoln smiled. “I sincerely hope not.” structures built by the late twentieth century evangelists. For doctrinal reasons, he had kept away from them. That afternoon, the Commander addressed the Council. “I hear your congregation is getting so big, you’ll be “We are our own worst enemy,” he said. “The further taking over the ship soon,” Lincoln said. “What do you we travel from Earth, the greater the danger will become. think is happening?” No one is safe. Artemis, I need your help.” “I can’t explain it. But I welcome it.” “Certainly, Commander.” “For your information, we don’t think the cause “I know it is your job to manage the mood of the is religious. Nor is everyone affected. It seems to be passengers. You have performed the task well. However, associated with high anxiety rates. Apart from that, it’s we are going to try a new approach.” hard to say.” “Yes, Commander.” “Where do you think it’s coming from?” the Reverend “Thank you, Artemis. You are a most valued member of asked. our community.” “I was hoping you might be able to tell me.” There were things the Commander dare not say. Had The next day, Pastor Alman succumbed to temptation, Artemis been swept up in the very wave of anxiety that he requesting a scaled-down version of one of the largest had tried to counter with his rural landscapes and vistas churches ever built; not that he would ever be able to of pink. Would he himself need treatment? The first leg of fill it. The Cathedral of the Future was the creation of the journey had been surprisingly smooth. From now on, a self-styled Doctor of Theology and late 20th Century anything might happen. evangelist who had preached the message: God wants you to prosper. Those who didn’t feel comfortable inside In the evening, when Adam looked out the porthole, he the building were invited to worship from the comfort found himself gazing at a starry sky, as seen from Central of their cars, as they listened to the Gospel according to Australia. As he went to sleep, Artemis explained the the good Doctor Mars. Alman had little sympathy with significance of some of the patterns that the ancients had the evangelist’s message, but there was no doubting the detected among the heavens. splendour of his church. The next morning he was invited to an Earth party. Inspired by the magnificent surroundings, the ship’s Everyone was asked to come as a character from Earth chaplain found himself preaching as never before: “My history, drink Earth beverages, eat Earth food … Similar dear brothers and sisters. No longer are we tiny creatures events took place all over the ship. lost in a hostile universe, never at rest, never at peace. That night, as Artemis carried her charges swiftly Now we can be certain that God is with us. We have been onwards, Adam slept soundly. By morning, even touched by the Holy Spirit.” Glowing with pride, he wore Mr. Chandra was feeling better. the same smile that he had seen on the face of a purple- robed Doctor Mars as he raised his hands in blessing over In the chapel, the Reverend Alman knelt in front of a o a sea of Mercedes and Lincoln Continentals. simple wooden altar, praying for God’s forgiveness. As the morning sun caressed the building, ten © Bernard Russell Smith thousand stained glass panels lit up in a glorious display of colour: deep lenten purples, soothing greens and Visit us on the Internet at www.fawnsw.org.au WRITERS’ VOICE 242—December 2013 25 BANKSTOWN Writers FOREST FAW 1st Saturday – 1.00 to 4.00 pm 3rd Saturday – 2.00 pm Fellowship of Banksia Room, Forest Community Arts Centre Australian Writers BranchRevesby Workers Club MeetingsDarley Street, Forestville. and Contacts Enquiries: Enquiries: NSW Inc. Carney Vaughan 4268 5383 Maggie Gowanlock 9948 3882 ABN 59 557 152 715 PO Box 248, Balgowlah NSW 2093 BLUE MOUNTAINS FAW FAW NSW Inc. 1st Sunday – 1.45 to 4.45 pm GREAT LAKES FAW Mail: PO Box 488, Rozelle NSW 2039 Springwood Court Function Room, 2nd Friday – 1.00 to 4.00 pm Internet: 26 WRITERS’ VOICE 242—December 2013 Visit us on the Internet at www.fawnsw.org.au PORT MACQUARIE- WOLLONDILLY FAW FAW ISOLATED WRITERS Branch HASTINGS FAW 2nd Sunday – 1.00 pm Last Saturday – 1.00 to 4.00 pm Tahmoor Community Centre, Membership Enquiries: The Mac Adams Music Centre 6 Harper Close, Tahmoor. Carolyn Cash, Isolated Writers Convenor 33 Lord Street, Port Macquarie Enquiries: Fellowship of Australian Writers NSW [behind the Players Theatre] Rosemary Peters (Pres.) PO Box 429, Caringbah NSW 1495 Enquiries: 0409 177 369 or Olivia Mulligan Wilma Boyd (Sec.) 6585 4755 (Sec.) 0402 091 903 Members’ Achievements: or Joie Black 6585 3520 Visit us on the Internet at www.fawnsw.org.au WRITERS’ VOICE 242—December 2013 27 RECENTLY PUBLISHED BOOKS FOR SALE Please send details for inclusion in this section to: FAW Members’ Bookshelf Editor, Writers’ Voice, 65 Barbara Boulevard, Seven Hills NSW 2147 Kay Andos Rocky Mountain Spirit The FAW Bookshelf web page address is: A social history of Kandos, NSW. This very large, hard covered book has 448 pages and 600 photos of life in a small country town. The stories are relative to everyone who lived in Australia, in a small country industrial then the Netherlands East Indies, and her in London, while making town during the Twentieth Century. It is told by the descendants of wedding arrangements and plans for a life together on the family sheep original settlers and New Australian’s stories before and after WWII. property at Murrurundi, NSW. This is a book that will make you laugh It also contains 146 genealogy trees of the 150 people interviewed for as it will also make you cry, as seen through the eyes of an Aussie this book which celebrates the Kandos Centenary. Price $70 plus $15 bloke from the bush and his bride from post-war London, accustomed postage. Available from Pamela O’Connor, 28 Russell Rd, Kandos, NSW to performing in the entertainment venues of Europe. “Yours for the IRENE WILKIE Extravagance 2848. Phone 02 6379 4613. next seventy years” is Peter’s sign off to one of his letters. One can’t help feeling that Noëlle’s tribute to her late husband will last a good MICHELLE LOPERT The Puzzle Women deal longer. 325 pages. Contact Noëlle on 02 6555 5366. This is Irene Wilkie’s second collection of poems. Throughout the 67 pages she demonstrates a delight in the natural and human world. She treats, often with a wry humour, the more serious aspects of In her second collection of 15 award-winning short stories, Michelle growing older, loss and environmental concerns. There is a strong digs into both the comical and the dark sides of human nature. With enquiry with empathy into the dilemma of humankind in the face of a her characteristic humour and sharpness, she explores: youth suicide, vast and mindless universe, a question lightened by colour in the visual paranoid regimes, torture, love, revenge, mad psychologists and and aural image. She says, ‘In the mornings, familiar, light-washed, dysfunctional relationships. The voices are distinct, the emotions raw, wind-tipped things change. I walk with dawn birds, searching for the and the endings are always surprising. These spare> punchy stories difference’. Extravagance has a very attractive cover by Lea Hawkins. will leave you either laughing or disturbed, but never disappointed. ANTOINETTE CONOLLY A Key to Time Cost: $22 plus postage, from Ginninderra Press, or $24 (inc postage), $15 (includes postage). Email