Newsletter - December 2025
Introduction
Welcome to the final newsletter for 2025. It has been a privilege to have you on board and to share my thoughts about a range of issues. I hope at least a couple of pieces have resonated with you and prompted you view the world with fresh eyes.
There is always a sense of time accelerating when we reach the end of the year with all the pressures associated with Christmas. Yet time is an intangible thing, something we have chosen to measure using fixed parameters. Years, months, weeks, hours, seconds. You can feel it passing at times, a built-in sense of urgency that we have no control over. I recently listened to a Life Matters podcast where I learned about the Deep Time project, an interactive tool that brings together thousands of years of oral histories that have been passed down for generations. Aboriginal people measure time differently using day and night and the passing of the seasons as they observe changes in the natural world. It is difficult to imagine time as being non-linear, to not watch the clock and feel the pressure of deadlines, commitments, and the urgency of to-do lists. If you have some time off over the festive season, consider disconnecting from measured time for a few days. Take off your watch, turn off the alarm and wake up when you are ready. Allow the day to shift around you and see how it feels. Have a look at the Deep Time website and click on time. It really puts things into perspective.
Event at The Book Cow in Canberra
I grew up in Canberra, so coming here to celebrate my books, A World of Silence and The Truth about My Daughter at The Book Cow was very special. Old friends from Ainslie Primary School and St Clare's College came as well as friends I've worked with or met through my writing and running. I was overwhelmed by how many people were there to support me. Our lives are not lived in isolation. It is the friends we make and the people we meet who shape us and are part of who we become. I really experienced that at this beautiful event where I was in a room full of people with whom I shared some history.
Welcome to the final newsletter for 2025. It has been a privilege to have you on board and to share my thoughts about a range of issues. I hope at least a couple of pieces have resonated with you and prompted you view the world with fresh eyes.
There is always a sense of time accelerating when we reach the end of the year with all the pressures associated with Christmas. Yet time is an intangible thing, something we have chosen to measure using fixed parameters. Years, months, weeks, hours, seconds. You can feel it passing at times, a built-in sense of urgency that we have no control over. I recently listened to a Life Matters podcast where I learned about the Deep Time project, an interactive tool that brings together thousands of years of oral histories that have been passed down for generations. Aboriginal people measure time differently using day and night and the passing of the seasons as they observe changes in the natural world. It is difficult to imagine time as being non-linear, to not watch the clock and feel the pressure of deadlines, commitments, and the urgency of to-do lists. If you have some time off over the festive season, consider disconnecting from measured time for a few days. Take off your watch, turn off the alarm and wake up when you are ready. Allow the day to shift around you and see how it feels. Have a look at the Deep Time website and click on time. It really puts things into perspective.
Event at The Book Cow in Canberra
I grew up in Canberra, so coming here to celebrate my books, A World of Silence and The Truth about My Daughter at The Book Cow was very special. Old friends from Ainslie Primary School and St Clare's College came as well as friends I've worked with or met through my writing and running. I was overwhelmed by how many people were there to support me. Our lives are not lived in isolation. It is the friends we make and the people we meet who shape us and are part of who we become. I really experienced that at this beautiful event where I was in a room full of people with whom I shared some history.
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Karen Viggers is one of my favourite authors, so being in conversation with her about my book was a real pinch-me moment. She does the most thoughtful interviews where she really gets to the heart of things - the stories behind the books and the authors. I learned things about myself and had to dig deep to respond to her questions. Have a listen to her excellent podcast, Secrets of the Green Room which she shares with Irma Gold. Read Newsletter here |
Newsletter - November 2025
Welcome to the November edition of my newsletter. If you are a regular subscriber, you will know that I recently spent several weeks exploring the South Australian and West Australian coastline, gradually making my way up to Ningaloo Reef. There is something special about camping. It simplifies life, reminds me that it is possible to reduce life to the essentials and yet experience it more fully.
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It was so lovely to be in conversation with author, Rose Lane about her travel memoir, The Last Tibetan Kingdom, at Brisbane’s Books at Stones. What a huge crowd came to celebrate! It was such a fascinating conversation that covered wide-reaching topics about Lo Manthang, a little known and isolated part of Nepal. We discussed death and burial rituals, grief, and loss and how an art installation enabled exiled Tibetans to walk on their home soil. At its heart, Rose’s book is about following our dreams despite challenges. If you missed this event, enjoy her virtual launch instead.
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On 28 October, I was privileged to chair the launch of a very special and important children’s book by authors Tseren Byambasuren and Tess Rowley. Tseren came to Australia to do her PhD studying rock art and is passionate about preserving the folklore of her country, Mongolia. She collaborated with multi award-winning author Tess who has written many children’s books and they produced the delightful bilingual book called, Jangar – The Legendary Camel. This was such an important conversation and took us back to the very origins of storytelling, documented through pictures. It is books like these that have the potential to not only preserve vital history, but to remind us of the importance of learning from those who have walked this earth before us. The event was hosted by the iconic Brisbane bookstore, Books at Stones.
Read Newsletter Here |
Newsletter - October 2025
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This past month has been special as hubby and I have been exploring the extraordinary coastlines of South Australia and Western Australia. It is so critical that we preserve these beautiful areas. It is essential for not only our wellbeing, but for the integrity of the ecosystems that thrive there.
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Years ago, I did a locum on the Eyre Peninsula and visited Whalers’ Way, a privately owned stretch of coastline that is unique and beautiful beyond words. I was keen for hubby to see it and we opted to go on a small full day group tour which included Lincoln National Park as well. While the tour of the local wildness areas was exceptional, what made it special was our guide, a semi-retired local, Ian Beeby or ‘Beebs,’ who has lived in the area for fifty years. In an era where we move on average every ten years, deep connection to a place is becoming a rare phenomenon, but spending the day with Beebs reminded me how important it is to be connected to a place and its people, something that is deeply understood by First Nations people.
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On Thursday 27 November, I will be at The Book Cow in Kingston, Canberra and Karen Viggers, author of several of my favourite books will be interviewing me. I have included a review of her latest release, Sidelines, in this newsletter. It is a great read. She also has a podcast, Secrets from the Green Room, which is excellent. Do have a listen. And if you happen to be in Canberra on 27 November, come and say hi.
Read Newsletter Here
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Newsletter - September 2025
Welcome to this spring edition of my Running Writing newsletter. I’m always thrilled to see new subscribers and if you enjoy what you read, please pass it on to friends and family.
This month is a special one for me. I have taken just over a month off and will be flying to Adelaide where hubby and I will begin an adventure. We plan to travel along the coast of South Australia, cross the Nullarbor Plain, and make our way up to Ningaloo Reef. After watching Tim Winton’s series Ningaloo Nyinggulu and reading Juice, I wanted to see it before it disappeared. The recent devastating bleaching events remind us how precarious the situation is for this unique and fragile habitat.
This month is a special one for me. I have taken just over a month off and will be flying to Adelaide where hubby and I will begin an adventure. We plan to travel along the coast of South Australia, cross the Nullarbor Plain, and make our way up to Ningaloo Reef. After watching Tim Winton’s series Ningaloo Nyinggulu and reading Juice, I wanted to see it before it disappeared. The recent devastating bleaching events remind us how precarious the situation is for this unique and fragile habitat.
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On 16 August, I was on a panel with fellow authors Sarah Todman and Gillian Wills at Cleveland Library to discuss the topic, Feminism is Dead – or is it?
We used the fictional female protagonists in our novels as a lens through which to explore women’s roles in society today. It was a discussion that provoked heated debate with our audience. We are all keen to run this event again at other venues and invite anyone interested to get in touch. |
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On 23 August I collaborated with the Adrienne Webster, one of the nurses I work with, to organise a fundraiser for Small Steps for Hannah. Adrienne also happens to be a very talented artist whose exhibition of paintings last year sold out. We invited other creatives to join us – Michelle Phillip who makes gorgeous slow fashion from vintage fabrics, Kirstie Page who is a multimedia artist and creates the most beautiful cards, ceramic jewellery as well as paintings and Pamela Diaz who paints amazing floral watercolours. We were so fortunate to have The Honourable Di Farmer, member for Bulimba, and a powerful advocate for women experiencing domestic violence, come and speak. One of the highlights was a fashion parade where our lovely models, Luna, Lara, Eva, Bonnie, Sydney, Karma and Aisling (all the way from Ireland) strutted their stuff wearing some of Michelle's gorgeous homemade clothes.
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Newsletter - August 2025
Welcome to every person who has subscribed to my newsletter. Lots has happened in the past month and there are quite a few events coming up. I invite you to join me at one of them and come up and say hi. I also love getting feedback, so if something spoke to you or you disagree with anything I’ve written, please just send an email.
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On Sunday 29 June, I drove to The Spot Café Cooroy where I was in conversation with Hayley Saunders.It was such a great event with a receptive audience who challenged me with such interesting questions that I learned more about myself.
There is a monthly book event at this gorgeous café, but it is worth a trip just to have a coffee and snack at The Spot. It is a café with all the feels – a lovely lounge area, second-hand books, and pottery for sale as well as delicious coffee and food served by friendly and welcoming staff. |
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I connected with Michelle Philip when I released my first book, The Truth about My Daughter.. She creates incredible clothes using discarded and vintage fabrics and you can find her at Gecko’s New Tail. She is also one of the founding members of The Iluka Emporium, a creative space where locals can gather to do workshops, display their creative pieces, and connect with others in the community. I was so honoured to do a collaboration with Michelle to launch A World of Silence, and discuss the importance of female friendships, community, coercive control, and the environmental impacts of fast fashion.
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Newsletter - July 2025
Welcome to the July edition of my newsletter. I get so much pleasure writing these each month and hope that every one of you finds a pearl of wisdom that improves your life, wellbeing, and creativity just a little. Being human can be a tough gig at times and every bit of support or advice we can glean from others’ struggles and joys reminds us how similar we are on the inside.
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On 5 June, my second novel, A World of Silence was launched at one of Brisbane’s gems – Books at Stones.
I was in conversation with crime writer Poppy Gee who asked such thoughtful questions as we explored female friendships and coercive control. And the audience were just wonderful. They asked such interesting questions, and we laughed a lot despite some of the more serious topics discussed. |
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On Saturday 14 June, I ran my first workshop in my Cognition and Creativity series, Overcoming Imposter Syndrome at Books at Stones. It was a fully booked session with such a lovely group of interactive writers who shared their own experiences of rejection and the fears that fed their self-doubt. We concluded with a better understanding of how our brain works and how to use this knowledge to face down imposter syndrome and procrastination. I plan to do a few more workshops later in the year. Watch this space!
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Newsletter - June 2025
May was a big month for me with the launch of my new release, A World of Silence. Releasing a book baby into the world is always an emotional event, often the culmination of years of labour. You have no idea how a new novel will be received by the world so excitement is tempered by anxiety that your story will be read and come alive in the imagination of your readers. After being in control of how the story evolves and how your characters respond to events, it is a big responsibility to let go, to show up to events and talk about your book to an audience. I thought the second time would be easier, but you are just as nervous, just as hopeful and expectations are different when it is your second release.
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The month started with the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Writers Festival, where I was on a panel with author Martine Kropkowski whose book, Everywhere You Look, has similar themes to mine. We were in conversation with Priscilla Thorpe, the Sunshine Coast Domestic and Family Violence Service coordinator.
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On 10 May, I officially launched, A World of Silence into the world at Avid Reader. I was incredibly fortunate to be in conversation with women’s fiction author, Michelle Upton, who managed to inject joy and levity into a discussion that did brush on some dark themes. Independent bookshops like Avid Reader are about so much more than just books. They are spaces that connect us through community events, bringing people together to share the joy of reading, writing, and friendship.
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Newsletter - May 2025
I want to thank every subscriber old and new for taking the time to sign up and read my newsletters. I was completely overwhelmed with the many responses to the April edition. Our bodies are such a source of intense emotion, often involving a lifetime of conflict and hatred with endless efforts to change our appearance through punishing regimes. It was such a joy to read your emails and know that my words touched you, and for many, helped you realise what an extraordinary thing your body is when you appreciate all it does and learn to love it just a little. I hope that with the May edition, you will lean into aging and embrace your years with grace and gratitude whatever stage of your journey you are on.
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It was such a big month for me. My second book baby, A World of Silence was released into the world on 14 April and now sits alongside her big sister, The Truth about My Daughter. I am so grateful for the early reviews and endorsements. You never know how a new book will land and knowing that it is touching others is the greatest gift an author could ask for.
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Newsletter - April 2025
This is an exciting month as my second novel is released on the 14 April. I have been thrilled to receive some very positive reviews. There is no joy for an author quite like a reader telling them they loved their book. Have a look at this trailer created by Hawkeye. It really captures the themes in my novel perfectly. You can get your copy of A World of Silence, from Hawkeye Publishing. To celebrate my release date, I will be interviewed by author and podcaster, Claudine Tinellis on her fabulous podcast, Talking Aussie Books.There are so many great Australian authors, and you get to meet many of them and learn about what inspired them to write when you listen to Claudine’s podcast.
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On 4 May, I will be at the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Writers Festival on a panel with author Martine Kropkowski where we will be discussing our books around the topic, What Lies Beneath. This is such a gorgeous festival in the most beautiful location. There are some amazing author chats over the weekend. Have a look, get a ticket, and immerse yourself in a weekend of books and author chats in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.
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If you are in Brisbane, I would love to see you at my launch at Avid Reader on 10 May at 3 for 3.30. I will be in conversation with the lovely Michelle Upton, award-winning women’s fiction author. The event is free, but you need to book.
Newsletter - March 2025
Welcome to my March newsletter. It’s lovely to see so many new subscribers and to welcome my regulars back for another month of running, writing and GP wisdom. It has been a big month of news including the early arrival of my new release, a podcast, a farewell and Hawkeye Publishing making a splash in the news. Dive in and enjoy the March edition.
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My new release has arrived, and she is gorgeous. I adore the cover. There are few things as exciting as finally holding your own book in your hands. You can get yourself a copy at Hawkeye Publishing. And if you enjoy my book, please post a review on Goodreads |
I was very excited to be interviewed by authors Jack Roney and Harry Colfer for their excellent podcast Genre Fiction. If you are not a subscriber, I encourage you to sign up. They have interviewed a huge range of well-known authors and I learn something new with every episode I listen to. I was asked about marathon running, how my work as a GP informs the themes in my novels, positive masculinity and what I think about the genre, contemporary women’s fiction. I hope you enjoy the two episodes where I chat with Jack and Harry.
Newsletter - February 2025
Thank you to all my subscribers and a warm welcome to anyone who has just joined. Do let me know what you think as I do take all feedback on board. If you are too busy to read all my newsletter, I always highlight the take home messages and if there is something that really grabs your attention, you can always come back and enjoy it later.
The year really started with a bang for me. I remember when Jane Connolly, one of the Brisbane Scribes writing group, alerted us to a new writing competition, Not Quite Write. You have a weekend to write a 500 word story using an anti-prompt as well as a couple of key words. Always a sucker for a new competition, I sent a story in for each of the four competitions in 2024 and managed to long list each time which placed me third on the NQW leader board.
This really is a lay yourself bare kind of competition as judges, Ed and Amanda, are brutally honest with their critiques on their podcast. Have a listen even if you don’t enter, and you will pick up all sorts of tips and advice that you can apply to your own writing. And I feature on their Not Quite Writer page if you want to have a read.
The year really started with a bang for me. I remember when Jane Connolly, one of the Brisbane Scribes writing group, alerted us to a new writing competition, Not Quite Write. You have a weekend to write a 500 word story using an anti-prompt as well as a couple of key words. Always a sucker for a new competition, I sent a story in for each of the four competitions in 2024 and managed to long list each time which placed me third on the NQW leader board.
This really is a lay yourself bare kind of competition as judges, Ed and Amanda, are brutally honest with their critiques on their podcast. Have a listen even if you don’t enter, and you will pick up all sorts of tips and advice that you can apply to your own writing. And I feature on their Not Quite Writer page if you want to have a read.
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Just as I was basking in that win, I was contacted by the lovely Karen Weibler from Books at Stones who informed me that The Truth about My Daughter was their number three bestseller for 2024 after Melissa Lucashenko’s Edenglassie, and Trent Dalton’s Lola in the Mirror. I was just ahead of Liane Moriarty who was at number four. These are the moments every writer waits for. I am over the moon and my feet have yet to land on solid ground.
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Newsletter - January 2024
Here we are on the cusp of a brand new year. Why not relax, make yourself a cuppa and delve into my first newsletter for 2025. A warm welcome to both my regulars and to new subscribers. My hope is that after reading one of my newsletters, you will find something to inspire you to see life in a fresh and creative way. Have a look through my archive at earlier newsletters where you will find lots more GP wisdom, running lore, writing tips, book reviews and some of my own writing. And if you are time poor, I highlight the take home messages so you can just scroll through those. If you like what you read, pass it on to a friend. Have a beautiful Christmas and a New Year filled with friends, books and time to appreciate the small joys in life.
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My big news is that I have a second book coming out in May 2025. Isn’t the cover is gorgeous? Do pre order a copy at Hawkeye Publishing.
Three women. Three dark secrets. A deadly silence. A story about female friendships and the things we share with each other and the things we keep secret. What are the consequences of speaking out? Of keeping silent? My launch will be at the gorgeous independent bookstore, Avid Reader on Saturday afternoon, 10 May, just before Mother’s Day. Do grab your tickets early. It is a free event but bookings are essential. Read newsletter here |
Newsletter - December 2024
Welcome to the final edition of my newsletter for 2024. If you are a new subscriber, I invite you to have a scroll through my old newsletters. I celebrated 12 months of newsletter writing in September 2024 and you may just find something to inspire you. And thank you to all my regulars. It’s great to have you on board.
My youngest has officially finished his school years. We had our final awards evening, final school drop off, a final packed lunch and graduation. It feels rather surreal reaching this milestone after having three children move through the education system. We are now the parents of three young adults, and I will have to adjust to this new reality. |
I have signed a contract for another novel, A World of Silence, due out in April next year. Three women with dark secrets to hide. What are the consequences of speaking out? Of remaining silent? More news about my next release in the new year! 
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Newsletter - November 2024
Introduction
Welcome to all subscribers, old and new. It has been a huge month and I do hope you will find something to inspire you in my November newsletter.
During the final weekend in September, I flew to Sydney to volunteer for the Northern Beaches Readers Festival, the brainchild of Australian women’s fiction author Sandie Docker. While many festivals focus on literary work, this one invites the authors who write the books we read when we need to relax and escape, so called commercial fiction. That is not to say that the authors do not deal with serious topics. The discussions about aging women becoming invisible, the importance of relationships, patriarchy, and how a bit of magic can make life palatable were just some of the issues discussed. If you missed out this year, do put it in your diary for 2026. This festival is one not to miss.
Welcome to all subscribers, old and new. It has been a huge month and I do hope you will find something to inspire you in my November newsletter.
During the final weekend in September, I flew to Sydney to volunteer for the Northern Beaches Readers Festival, the brainchild of Australian women’s fiction author Sandie Docker. While many festivals focus on literary work, this one invites the authors who write the books we read when we need to relax and escape, so called commercial fiction. That is not to say that the authors do not deal with serious topics. The discussions about aging women becoming invisible, the importance of relationships, patriarchy, and how a bit of magic can make life palatable were just some of the issues discussed. If you missed out this year, do put it in your diary for 2026. This festival is one not to miss.
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One highlight for me was meeting the CEO of the Australian Writers Centre, Valerie Khoo, who chaired one of the panels. Nearly every writer in Australian has done an AWC course and I am no exception. A veteran of Furious Fiction, I enter every month and it is the first competition where I shortlisted. I have done several other courses, including my favourite, Michelle Barraclough’s online course about creating a writer’s website. It was very special to be able to thank Valerie in person and to hand her a copy of my just-released novel. She even wore colours that matched my cover
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Newsletter - October 2024
This edition is a special one where I celebrate the launch of my new novel, The Truth about My Daughter. When you start your writing journey, it is impossible to visualise where it will take you. It is just like having a baby. Before they are born, you cannot imagine the unique person who has been entrusted to you to nurture to adulthood and the joys and heartaches you will experience along the way. September has been a huge month as I introduced my book baby into the world. While this is the focus of my introduction, I have still written plenty of other interesting articles in the rest of my newsletter unrelated to my launch! Make yourself a cuppa, sit back and enjoy the read.
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The launch of my debut novel was exhilarating, over-whelming and emotional. I could never have imagined that so many friends, colleagues, writers, and family would give up a Saturday afternoon to spend it celebrating The Truth about My Daughter launch. I was a bundle of nerves leading up to the event but was very fortunate to have local crime writer, Poppy Gee, as my interviewer. She was so calm and reassuring, that everything flowed smoothly once we started.
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Newsletter - September 2024
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It has been a big month. After getting a call from my publisher, I went into Hawkeye Publishing to see my debut novel for the first time. It was a very emotional day to see piles of my novel waiting to be signed and boxes all set for distribution. I had the help of Lucky, who I believe was as excited as me and was all paws in for the signing gig that did take a couple of hours. Every publishing house needs a pooch!
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And that evening, I met with my wonderful writing group, Brisbane Scribes, who gifted me a framed copy of my cover with beautiful messages on the back. These women are the best and most talented writing buddies a debut author could wish for. My cup is overflowing. With love, good will and yes, a drop or two of bubbles.
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I am now at the nail-biting countdown to my book launch to be held at Avid Reader on 14 September. If you missed out on a ticket, you can add your name to a wait list or join me for my book chat at Books at Stones on Thursday 3 October at 6.15, where I will be interviewed by Jane Connolly, Brisbane Scribe, former Children’s Book Council judge and all around fabulous human being who has weathered a great deal of writing angst with me over anthologies, rejections, and all sorts of writerly things. There will be wine and cheese. Do grab a ticket before they are all gone.
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Read Newsletter Here
Newsletter - August 2024
Introduction
Welcome to my August newsletter. If you have recently subscribed, welcome aboard and if you are a regular, thank you for taking the time to read my words. And do give me feedback. I always love to know if you enjoyed a piece that I wrote or if there are things that I could improve. My book launch for The Truth about My Daughter is getting very close. I am excited to see that my Avid Reader event on 14 September has sold out, but I also have an event at Books at Stones on Thursday 3 October at 6.30, so if you missed out on my launch, I would be delighted to see you there. And if you did score a ticket to my launch at Avid Reader, I am delighted to confirm that Brisbane crime author, Poppy Gee will be discussing my debut novel with me.
Welcome to my August newsletter. If you have recently subscribed, welcome aboard and if you are a regular, thank you for taking the time to read my words. And do give me feedback. I always love to know if you enjoyed a piece that I wrote or if there are things that I could improve. My book launch for The Truth about My Daughter is getting very close. I am excited to see that my Avid Reader event on 14 September has sold out, but I also have an event at Books at Stones on Thursday 3 October at 6.30, so if you missed out on my launch, I would be delighted to see you there. And if you did score a ticket to my launch at Avid Reader, I am delighted to confirm that Brisbane crime author, Poppy Gee will be discussing my debut novel with me.
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My fabulous writing group, Brisbane Scribes did another photo shoot recently as we are working on updating our website. Here is my favourite shot. Every month we get together, enjoy a sip or two of wine, share the stories we wrote to a prompt set the previous month, celebrate any wins, and share our favourite reads. It can get quite rowdy, but that is what you expect when you get a feisty group of writers with strong opinions in a room with books and wine.
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Newsletter - July 2024
Introduction
Welcome to the July edition of my newsletter. If you are a new subscriber, do check the archive for earlier editions and have a scroll through. There may just be something there that inspires you to run or write or see the world in a different way. And do give me feedback and let me know what you think.
Welcome to the July edition of my newsletter. If you are a new subscriber, do check the archive for earlier editions and have a scroll through. There may just be something there that inspires you to run or write or see the world in a different way. And do give me feedback and let me know what you think.
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In the first week of June, I was lucky enough to be selected for a lighthouse residency in Newcastle. I spent five days alongside other writers, some poets, an illustrator, and several artists enjoying the incredible views and a quiet space to work on my current novel, The Last Supper. If you are a creative, do apply for one of these residencies. And Newcastle is so impressive. The beaches are spectacular, there are art installations everywhere and historical buildings and sites have been sensitively preserved. I stayed in an apartment overlooking Newcastle beach and enjoyed whales gambolling and pods of dolphins swimming by.
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My debut novel launches at Avid Reader on 14 September and is completely sold out. I feel overwhelmed by so much support and am excited to include a trailer for The Truth about My Daughter.
If you missed out on my Avid Reader launch, don’t worry, I have another event coming up at Books at Stones, the gorgeous bookstore owned by Michael and Karen Weibler. As part of my novel is set at the bookstore (but owned by a fictional character) it is a very fitting venue for this event. I do hope to see you there. There will be wine! And you can pre order your copy at Hawkeye Books. Read newsletter here |
Newsletter - June 2024
Introduction
I would like to extend a warm welcome to both my new subscribers and my regulars. It is hard to believe that that we are halfway through the year and heading into the chilly months. I am thrilled to announce that my first week of winter will be spent at a lighthouse writing residency. One whole week to completely immerse myself in words and work through another draft of my work in progress The Last Supper. I have always loved lighthouses and imagined what it might be like to be a lighthouse keeper and to live isolated from the world using light to guide ships away from a treacherous coast. Now I realise what I was really longing for was to write inside a lighthouse, to hear the waves below reshaping the rocks and to feel the wind outside while allowing my creativity free reign, undisturbed by the clamour of daily life.
I was fortunate to get tickets to see author Claire Keegan at The Powerhouse in Brisbane with three of the Brisbane Scribes. It was a delightful afternoon spent listening to wisdom shared by one of the world’s most accomplished and awarded writers followed by lunch and plenty of chat. Claire began by explaining the difference between drama, where there is lots of action, versus tension where the reader is drawn into the narrative wanting to know what happens next. It was a reminder to writers of what makes us turn the page and how to create that desire to read on.
Something she said that really resonated with me, was that grief and loss, prejudice and injustice have a lack of generosity at their core. Racism is a reluctance to share with a person of a different colour or race, sexism denies women equal access to opportunities and so on. In a world where generosity prevailed, we would not be experiencing the horrors we witness daily through our news feeds and bulletins. We would not have a woman dying at the hands of her intimate partner every four days and we would be generous in offering a Voice to Australia’s First Nation’s people.
The final gem that really stayed with me was finding beauty in simplicity. Claire Keegan remembered watching a young Olympic gymnast performing on a simple beam. Using only a simple plank as a prop, the gymnast had perfected a breathtaking routine for the enjoyment of her audience. Claire invited us to find the same beauty in stories. A simplicity inside the complexity of words placed perfectly to stir our imaginations, prodding us to see our world in a fresh way.
I recommend connecting with the people in your life who share your passions, spending time with them regularly so that you can nurture each other and share ideas. Preferably over a delicious meal. The afternoon provoked hearty discussion about writing stories, telling versus showing, and how to apply Claire Keegan’s wisdom to our own work. We all headed home ready to nudge our imaginations to create beauty on the page.
June brings us ever closer to the launch date of my novel, The Truth about My Daughter. Do get yourself a copy. Pre orders are available using the link and are immensely important, especially for a debut author like me. Warmest thanks if you have already ordered a copy. And if you happen to be in Brisbane, on 14 September, book yourself a ticket for my book launch at Avid Reader at 2.30 for 3pm. If you are busy on 14 September, I am having another event at Books at Stones on 3 October at 6.30 and hope to arrange other events in the months ahead. I really hope to see lots of you at one of my bookish events. And my book has been uploaded onto goodreads, so if you enjoy my book, do leave a review. And I will add bits and pieces of my newsletters to my blog on goodreads, so do ask questions or leave comments.
And if you are part of a book club and purchase five copies or more, you get a 20% discount. To learn more contact [email protected].
I would like to extend a warm welcome to both my new subscribers and my regulars. It is hard to believe that that we are halfway through the year and heading into the chilly months. I am thrilled to announce that my first week of winter will be spent at a lighthouse writing residency. One whole week to completely immerse myself in words and work through another draft of my work in progress The Last Supper. I have always loved lighthouses and imagined what it might be like to be a lighthouse keeper and to live isolated from the world using light to guide ships away from a treacherous coast. Now I realise what I was really longing for was to write inside a lighthouse, to hear the waves below reshaping the rocks and to feel the wind outside while allowing my creativity free reign, undisturbed by the clamour of daily life.
I was fortunate to get tickets to see author Claire Keegan at The Powerhouse in Brisbane with three of the Brisbane Scribes. It was a delightful afternoon spent listening to wisdom shared by one of the world’s most accomplished and awarded writers followed by lunch and plenty of chat. Claire began by explaining the difference between drama, where there is lots of action, versus tension where the reader is drawn into the narrative wanting to know what happens next. It was a reminder to writers of what makes us turn the page and how to create that desire to read on.
Something she said that really resonated with me, was that grief and loss, prejudice and injustice have a lack of generosity at their core. Racism is a reluctance to share with a person of a different colour or race, sexism denies women equal access to opportunities and so on. In a world where generosity prevailed, we would not be experiencing the horrors we witness daily through our news feeds and bulletins. We would not have a woman dying at the hands of her intimate partner every four days and we would be generous in offering a Voice to Australia’s First Nation’s people.
The final gem that really stayed with me was finding beauty in simplicity. Claire Keegan remembered watching a young Olympic gymnast performing on a simple beam. Using only a simple plank as a prop, the gymnast had perfected a breathtaking routine for the enjoyment of her audience. Claire invited us to find the same beauty in stories. A simplicity inside the complexity of words placed perfectly to stir our imaginations, prodding us to see our world in a fresh way.
I recommend connecting with the people in your life who share your passions, spending time with them regularly so that you can nurture each other and share ideas. Preferably over a delicious meal. The afternoon provoked hearty discussion about writing stories, telling versus showing, and how to apply Claire Keegan’s wisdom to our own work. We all headed home ready to nudge our imaginations to create beauty on the page.
June brings us ever closer to the launch date of my novel, The Truth about My Daughter. Do get yourself a copy. Pre orders are available using the link and are immensely important, especially for a debut author like me. Warmest thanks if you have already ordered a copy. And if you happen to be in Brisbane, on 14 September, book yourself a ticket for my book launch at Avid Reader at 2.30 for 3pm. If you are busy on 14 September, I am having another event at Books at Stones on 3 October at 6.30 and hope to arrange other events in the months ahead. I really hope to see lots of you at one of my bookish events. And my book has been uploaded onto goodreads, so if you enjoy my book, do leave a review. And I will add bits and pieces of my newsletters to my blog on goodreads, so do ask questions or leave comments.
And if you are part of a book club and purchase five copies or more, you get a 20% discount. To learn more contact [email protected].
I will leave you with the generous endorsement by award-winning author, Edita Mujkic.
‘A rich and complex tale of life’s ups and downs with the full scale of emotions and gripping characters. It will stay with you long after you’ve read it.’
Newsletter - May 2024
Introduction
Welcome to my May newsletter. Whether you are a regular subscriber, or this is your first newsletter, I do hope that you find a moment over the next month to make yourself a cuppa, sit in your favourite spot and enjoy this month’s edition with a focus on connections, community, and friendship.
The Gold Coast Writers Association invited Brisbane Scribes to run a writing workshop in April. We were delighted to be given the opportunity to share some of our writing wisdom. And what a friendly, enthusiastic group of writers they are.
We were asked to present our workshop, Winning Short Story Competitions. In 2023, Brisbane Scribes were invited to judge The Sydney Hammond Short Story Competition and it was such an invaluable experience to see things from the other side. Jane Connolly, former children’s book council judge, drew up a template that we all used to narrow the stories down to a long list and then we set about choosing the short list and winners.
We were all in agreement about eliminating stories that had technical errors or did not meet the story prompt, but choosing the short list proved challenging with heated discussion and disagreements. It is inevitable that subjectivity plays a role in choosing a winner, but you can give your submission the best chance by following the guidelines, ensuring you use correct spelling and punctuation and most importantly, by using the prompt provided. You don’t want your submission to stand out for the wrong reasons! And for more about this, head to my newsletter archive and read about aiming high in my March 2024 edition.
Welcome to my May newsletter. Whether you are a regular subscriber, or this is your first newsletter, I do hope that you find a moment over the next month to make yourself a cuppa, sit in your favourite spot and enjoy this month’s edition with a focus on connections, community, and friendship.
The Gold Coast Writers Association invited Brisbane Scribes to run a writing workshop in April. We were delighted to be given the opportunity to share some of our writing wisdom. And what a friendly, enthusiastic group of writers they are.
We were asked to present our workshop, Winning Short Story Competitions. In 2023, Brisbane Scribes were invited to judge The Sydney Hammond Short Story Competition and it was such an invaluable experience to see things from the other side. Jane Connolly, former children’s book council judge, drew up a template that we all used to narrow the stories down to a long list and then we set about choosing the short list and winners.
We were all in agreement about eliminating stories that had technical errors or did not meet the story prompt, but choosing the short list proved challenging with heated discussion and disagreements. It is inevitable that subjectivity plays a role in choosing a winner, but you can give your submission the best chance by following the guidelines, ensuring you use correct spelling and punctuation and most importantly, by using the prompt provided. You don’t want your submission to stand out for the wrong reasons! And for more about this, head to my newsletter archive and read about aiming high in my March 2024 edition.
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And if you really want to polish your writing, get yourself a copy of the gem Winning Short Story Competitions which has been instrumental in my own stories regularly listing in competitions.
I will leave you with a photograph of our day on the Gold Coast, featuring Christine Betts (far left) who organised the event, Kellie Cox (far right) who has already written two of the fifty-two stories she plans to write after I suggested writing a story a week, and the Brisbane Scribes - Jenny Adams, Jane Connolly and me
And if you really want to polish your writing, get yourself a copy of the gem Winning Short Story Competitions which has been instrumental in my own stories regularly listing in competitions.
I will leave you with a photograph of our day on the Gold Coast, featuring Christine Betts (far left) who organised the event, Kellie Cox (far right) who has already written two of the fifty-two stories she plans to write after I suggested writing a story a week, and the Brisbane Scribes - Jenny Adams, Jane Connolly and me
Newsletter - April 2024
Introduction
It has been a big month. My debut novel, The Truth about My Daughter is now available for pre order. Just follow the link to get yourself a copy. And isn’t the cover gorgeous? It is everything I imagined and captures the essence of my story perfectly. And Hawkeye Publishing has a brand new website where I have my own author page. I feel so excited to be part of the growing Hawkeye publishing family.
And speaking of new releases, I finally met Anne Freeman face to face. After a long Instagram friendship, sharing of books and a few writerly zoom chats, it felt long overdue. We not only had dinner together as a foursome, but I attended the launch of her second book. I might have mentioned her book Me That You See in my last newsletter, but I will include a link again for all those who missed it. I was one of the lucky readers who had a sneak read pre-publication and it is one hell of a read with insights into the sex industry, toxic masculinity and one woman’s desire for financial freedom and empowerment. Hawkeye’s Queen of Spice delivers again. It was the book launch to rival book launches, with live entertainment, champagne, cake and standing room only. I got to meet many authors I have previously only met on my socials, (Kylie Orr, Mary Howley and Casey Nott), chatted to several aspiring authors and stayed on for a couple of hours after the event ended. And here is a glimpse of us on the big day.
Newsletter - March 2024
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It has been a busy month for me. I was absolutely delighted to be accepted for a lighthouse residency and am heading there to write for a whole week in June. My Furious Fiction story, The Truth about the Tooth Fairy made their showcase and then another one of my novels, The Family, long listed in The Hawkeye Unpublished Manuscript Award. Writing is like that. Long months of drought followed by unexpected and delightful wins that make the heart sing with joy. The secret is to keep writing and rewriting allowing the process of creativity to find the magic waiting to take shape in your imagination.
With the publication of my book getting closer, I have reached the exciting stage of getting a cover designed, sending in my bio, dedication, and acknowledgments. The hardest part was contacting other authors and asking for endorsements. Reaching out to authors whose books I love and asking them to read my debut and give feedback was very challenging and I found myself well outside my comfort zone. Every single person I asked was generous and kind. I guess they have all been there too. None of us starts out with a string of publications let alone a bestseller under our belt. What really made me smile though, is author Cass Moriarty reminding me I am now part of the BrisLitMafia. I have never been more delighted to be part of a group. I might even have badges made up. Thank you to everyone who has supported my writing, editing and journey to publication to date. I used to think writing the books was the hard part! Read Newsletter here |
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Newsletter - February 2024
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I’m not sure about you, but over the past twelve months, I’ve had times where I really felt helpless and disempowered by world events. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the horror unfolding in Gaza, and learning that COP28 was headed by Sultan al-Jaber, the head of the United Arab Emirates State-owned oil firm, all made me feel that it is impossible for me to make a difference.
Every year, we attend the Woodford Folk Festival where for seven days we immerse ourselves in music, workshops, and presentations about a whole range of topical issues. This year, we attended a talk by Brisbane’s first Green party councillor Jonathan Sriranganath entitled, The Radical Potential of Local Councils. I learnt so much and realised that we do have agency and can have a big local impact if we are engaged and become involved in what is happening in our community. You don’t have to be a supporter of any political party to get a lot out of his talk. You will learn about the enormous leverage we have as individuals to make significant changes. Make yourself a cuppa, sit back and listen to how you can change your world for the better. Read newsletter here |
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Newsletter - January 2024
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My exciting news is that I just received my line edit back for 'The Truth about My Daughter,' so I will spend time over the festive season doing the finish touches to my novel getting it ready for release in 2024. Who knew that hard work could be so much fun!
The Brisbane Scribes, my gang of wordsmiths, celebrated the end of the year with a Christmas party at the gorgeous restaurant, Babylon. If you are a writer, thinking about writing, dabbling with words, or sweating over a manuscript, do make sure you find a tribe of like-minded dreamers and scribblers and commit to seeing them regularly. It is not only enjoyable but necessary when dipping your toe into the world of words. The writing space can be a tough and lonely place littered with rejections, dead end roads and tough feedback and you need others who understand and provide a scaffolding when it all seems too hard. Read Newsletter Here |
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Newsletter - December 2023
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On November 12, I was privileged to attend the launch of award-winning author, Peter Long’s latest book, Identity – Larry Cummins Bushranger.
It was such a great event. Peter wrote this novel following a family funeral where it emerged that his family were not all descended from the eminent Bonython clan of South Australia as he had always believed. It turns out that his family tree included an Irish rogue, the bushranger Larry Cummins. I thoroughly enjoyed Peter’s first book, Steve Hart, The Last Kelly Standing and his new novel, Identity is a real page turner. Peter immerses the reader in mid 1800’s colonial Australia with evocative details about the thrill and fear that was the bushranger life. The tale is told from different points of view including the women in Larry's life. This range of perspectives results in a vivid portrayal of this brutal chapter in our history. From the hold up of a mail coach in the opening pages, the reader is swept along in the lives of Peter’s characters as the day-to-day reality of their survival is revealed in cinematic style. Do yourself a favour and get a copy. And add one or two to gift as Christmas presents. Read Newsletter Here |
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Newsletter - November 2023
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The November newsletter is coming to you from Japan where hubby and I are enjoying our first overseas holiday without our children. We have just walked a section of the Kumano Kodō pilgrimage trail together. It gives me goosebumps to follow in the footsteps of thousands of others who have sought enlightenment, fresh wisdom, or spiritual refreshment. The trail requires a good level of fitness with long hilly, rocky sections but the scenery is breathtaking.
Read Newsletter Here |
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Newsletter - October 2023
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The first big project I took on as a writer was during the pandemic. I had done a couple of writing courses, written a first draft of a manuscript, and listed in a couple of competitions when the world as we knew it changed in ways that we could not have imagined. Working as a GP, I was in the front line when things started to unravel and have a vivid memory of consulting with a patient who overnight lost eighteen months of business. He ran a bus company with a full schedule of tours booked over a year ahead.
I knew this was a historical moment and contacted my friend, Jane Connolly, an experienced editor, and former children’s book council judge. I suggested we start collecting stories about people’s experiences. Read Newsletter Here |
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Newsletter - September 2023
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Welcome to my very first newsletter where I hope you will find something to inspire you. I will include snippets of running lore and how it helps me with my writing as well as some GP wisdom to keep you healthy and well.
I love reading about writer’s quirks, their processes, and their interests outside of writing and will let you into my world each month to give you an idea what happens behind the scenes in the life of a GP who writes and runs... Read more here -> |
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