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The "Unplugged" guests for this month were Bernie De Silva (who took us from tears to laughter with his offerings) Brooke McReynolds ( A freelance writer who earns her living being a Midwife shared The Grandmothers' Role. looking at breast feeding), Jan Eggleton (children's story) Rob Lawson (Poems from his third book - A Little Rain Must Fall)

A special guest was Mary Vasallo she chatted about her cookbook Maltese Cooking and she had us droolling at the eating possiblities if we started whipping up some of her recipes in our kitchen.

The first Friday of the month from Noon to 2pm has listeners on Community Radio Mackay 4CRM 107.5FM finding out Who Wrote That? The published author guests for July were Maryann Lister and Rob Lawson.  U3A Creative Writing Group members Patricia Russell, Robyn King, Jenny Mayes and Renie West shared their adventures both from their lives and imagination as they went Unplugged, a segment of the program that provides an opportunity for writers to perform their work live to air.  Through Our Eyes – The Mifsud Journey and Three Bells by Maryann Lister is a collection of family rememberings of Charlie and Therese Mifsud.  The Three Bells story takes us to Malta before the couple had met and journeyed to Australia.  The heartfelt love expressed in each chapter by the contributors makes the reader feel part of the family.A Little Rain Must Fall by Rob Lawson is the third book published by the prolific poet. We find out about the Legends and Louts I Have Known, Random Thoughts and the Softer Side of Rob Lawson and much more.  Proceeds from the sale will go to Canteen, the Australian organisation for young people with cancer.  Who Wrote That? is presented by Leanne Simpson and Susie Topham.  Writers interested in appearing on the next program, Friday 5 September or for other information ring Mrs Simpson on 49575019. Contributed by Leanne Simpson 

Who Wrote That? was the question answered on 4CRM 107.5FM on Friday 6^th March 09 as writers gathered to present their stories and poems Unplugged! (live to air).  The program started with an interview with Paul Vander Loos author and playwright about the upcoming production of his play In Good Spirits to be held as a part of latest Kucom Theatre offering.  Directed and adapted by Stan Hillard it opens Friday 13^th March.  Rob Lawson shared a number of poems from his soon to be published third book, taking us from the thought provoking to a good old belly laugh. This was followed by an interview with best-selling author Lisa Clifford about her novel Death in the Mountains – The True Story of a Tuscan Murder published by Macmillan Australia. U3A Creative Writing Group then took over the studio, Robyn King and Jan Eggleton took us travelling in prose and poetry.  Jenny Mayes had us reflecting on the old bush curse of “May your chooks turn into emus and kick you dunny down!”  and Patricia Russell entertained us with a little item using every song title she could think of.  The group meets each Friday at 9am at CQU. This year Who Wrote That? on 4CRM 107.5FM will air on the first Friday of each month at Noon to 2pm.  There will be Unplugged! presentations, interviews with published authors and the latest writing news.  The Who Wrote That Blog will be updated to give listeners another chance to hear the presentations, a link can be found at www.4crm.com.au/ProgramProfiles/CommunityNewsReviewsInterviews/WhoWroteThat For more information contact Leanne Simpson on 49575019

have trouble finding a certain author or interview don't forget that there is a search feature in the right hand column of this blog.  Simply enter the name of the author and see what happens, cheers Leanne

Community Radio Mackay’s Who Wrote That? finished off the year with a live to air broadcast. Writers from through out the Mackay district met up at the 4CRM 107.5FM Studios, 171 Victoria Street on Friday 12 December from Noon to 2pm. They helped celebrate with Producer and Presenter, Leanne Simpson, Co-presenter Susie Topham and Station Manager, Allan Berry this year’s achievements. The broadcast started at 1pm with stories and poems from our regular contributors, a round up of the year’s activities from the Mackay Writers Group and U3A Creative Writers.  

Photos can be found in the “Photo Gallery” from 19 December

Who wrote that? Over the next month we will find out just that as the 4crm 107.5fm program winds down for the year.  Airing each Friday at 1.15pm, Who Wrote That? presented by Leanne Simpson provides an insight into the world of writing. Guests for the coming weeks include. Judith L McNeil author of No One’s Child.  A compelling memoir of the early life of a “railway brat”, growing up in small Central Queensland towns along the track as her father worked on the lines.  This is the prequel to The Girl with the Cardboard Port that was featured on the program a few months ago. Roberta Taylor, one of Britain’s most respected actresses, now starring in the ABC TV’s The Bill as Inspector Gina Gold will chat about her novel The Reinvention of Ivy Brown and give aspiring writers clues on getting motivated. Peter Watt, international best selling author and former Mackay resident will share an insight into his latest novel The Frozen Circle. In 1918 after the Great War, two Australian soldiers join the British army to help fight the Bolshevik forces in northern Russia.  Almost a century later two skeletons are discovered in small Australian town.  What is the connection and how does Peter Watt gather his inspiration.  This and more will be revealed during the interview. There will be one more chance to get involved in Unplugged! This is the opportunity to give a voice to your writing and in December we will also catch up with local published authors and get a progress report on their novels. Writers please make contact if you wish to contribute to Unplugged! or have a Christmas story to share by 28 November.

If you have time please leave me a comment. Community radio is a volunteer

organisation.

Laughter and encouragement were on the menu as Who Wrote That? went Unplugged! last Friday.  Six writers shared their work dishing up a variety of stories and poems that could satisfy any taste. 
Hugh Halls entertained with a Canter in the Country.  A leisurely ride in the country turns into a death defying duel to save his lady love.  The hero is awakened from his triumphant win with a kiss, to find his only companion, his horse.  Hilda Olive expressed everyone’s concerns and frustrations with her piece, Roundabouts.  In Just Down the Road, Rob Lawson had us travelling to Ilfracombe, this small outback town has been thrust into the limelight as it is the original home of Governor-General Ms Quentin Bryce,.  Glad Dillon kept us out in the bush with her moving poem Life in the Outback that included the lines …Well it good to the ears through the laughter and tears, to see them take it all on the chin.  Through the heartache and pain, then thankfully rain, they decided it was still worth a grin.  Jan Eggleton’s A Tribute reminded us of the strength of character and mind, the victims of the February floods have relied on as they still wait for their homes to be safe. Patricia Russell took us to the early 1900s as we found out about the famous actress Lillie Langtry.  The extensive 4CRM music library was searched and Mrs Russell’s story was followed up with the song Lily of Laguna.  Each writer performed a twice and with Rob Lawson showing his diversity as a poet with What’s the Matter Now, where he ponders his mother’s wise words “Just tell the truth and you won’t get hurt.” with the line…Those jeans really DO make you backside look like two over inflated beach balls.  The 4CRM music library was once again called upon and he was re-educated with the song Venus in the Blue Jeans.Tune to 4CRM 107.FM for Who Wrote That?.  Each week here are interviews with published Australian and International authors and a story or poem from one of our local writers.  The next Unplugged! is planned for Friday 11 October.

Writing is frustrating! You write and write and who do you share your stories and poems with?  Here are a number of ways to spread your words.Be a part of Who Wrote That? Unplugged! on Friday 5 September as we celebrate Adult Learners’ Week from Noon to 2pm on 4CRM 107.5FM.  Writers will need to register by Friday 22 August by completing an application and release form available from 4CRM 171 Victoria Street. The story or poem must be no more than 25 words long and be suitable for broadcasting.  U3A Creative Writing Group doors are always open to new members. Meeting each Friday, 9am at the CQ University, where they pursue a writing task, read out their homework and enjoy a great camaraderie.  They are in the process of completing their radio plays and this week the challenge is to find a place in history and create a fictional scenario.

Who Wrote That? with Leanne Simpson -Friday at 1.15pm on 4CRM 107.5FM(as a part of Chit Chat  with Susie – noon to 2pm)Aim: To encourage writingThe program is an opportunity for writers from Mackay to have their poems and short stories published over the airways.  Writers are encouraged to submit their work.  There will be interviews will a published or aspiring writer providing information on the craft of writing.  How do they go about writing? How did they get published? Any words of wisdom to keep us motivated?  These questions and many more will be asked. Next Unplugged! Friday 5 September   Celebrate Adult Learners WeekRead live to air a poem or antidote - time limit 5minsThe theme is open, use your imagination Remember that you have to paint a picture with your words for the listeners. Email your expression of interest to whowrote@bigpond.net.au   Other events coming up:- Adult Learners Week - Special Event Broadcasting into Cyberspace – demystifying podcasting  - Write, speak, record and podcast. Mackay “My Space, Our Place”… Expressions of interest are now sort from community members for a workshop introducing the use of sound recording and blog software.  Mackay Libraries and 4CRM will have you broadcasting into cyberspace your story or poem about our place, Mackay. Places are limited for this 1 day introduction course. - (Computer knowledge is a prerequisite) §  Tuesday 26 August 2008 9.30am to 2.30pm§  Saturday 30 August 2008 9.30am to 2.30pm§  Tuesday 2 September  2008  9.30am to 2.30pm Launch date for blog on Mackay “My Space, Our Place”…Saturday 6 Sept 2008 at 10am Expression of interest forms maybe collected from the City Library or telephone Jessica Clark Community Services Librarian Ph: 07 4957 1787    Footprints in the Sand Writing as a Journey North Keppel Island Environmental Education Centre Sept 12-14, 2008-08-07                Cost: $160 includes boat trip, share cabin accommodation & meals, bring your own sleeping bag, sheets and towel  U3A Creative Writers member Patricia Russell is attempting to get a Mackay group together to make the trip down to share travelling costs from Mackay to Rockhampton return. Please ring her if you are interested on 4952 6466 Don’t forget to tune to 4CRM 107.5FM your community radio.  There is information every day on Mackay events and groups.  Check out www.4crm.com.au for community notices and information on 4crm’s programs, even Who Wrote That? has a page with some great photos. 

Did you catch the “Festival Fever”? I thought it was going to be more like a head cold and all I wanted to do is stay at home and curl up with a good book.  Well these things are always contagious, so infection was inevitable.

The Whitsunday Voices Youth Literature Festival proved once again how important it is to expose our children to the talents of Australian authors.  Boori Pryor had his audience in raptures as he shared his family and adventures.  We felt excitement and fear as we followed along with Boori’s tale and shoved a snake delivered from heaven into our bags.  Our intention was to gain revenge for the wrongs our siblings had done to us.  A snake in the bed should sort out the problems.   Another presenter, Maureen McCarthy spoke to the older grades and honoured us with a peek at her new novel Somebody’s Crying.  We all enjoyed a reading from the novel and a look at the proposed cover design. There will be an interview with Maureen on Who Wrote That? on 4CRM.

Time for a little Artiste Partie.  A little fun and games and chance for the Arts Community to celebrate its achievements over the year with the Art Is In Regional Arts Awards.  4CRM was honoured with the Outstanding Support of the Arts in Media award for its support of the regional arts scene for many years and of particular note recently the Who Wrote That? program produced by volunteer 4CRM member Leanne Simpson.  There were nominations for Who Wrote That? in a number of categories.

The Info Publishing Poets in the Pub proved to be a highlight with the adventure starting with a bus ride up the valley.  The entertainment kept coming through out the night.  Performances from Glen Borland, Mark “Bushie” Thompson and John Vassallo had the crowd soaring with emotions. The singing duo Patricia and Alyssia Galea proved that they are going to be a talent to watch out for as they shared their own compositions and a few covers. Ross and Karen Jewell reminded us of the terrific poetry found in country music.  Paul Vander Loos and Brooke McReynolds had us debating the merits of the bush and city living and other Mackay Writers Group members Frank Vensulaar and Mary McDougall ventured on the stage to perform their poetry. The arrival of the returning bus came too soon for us all as we glanced at our watches and found that time had flown.  This event is a must see in the Festival of Art calendar for next year.

Who Wrote That? with Leanne Simpson on 4CRM airs on Fridays at 1.15pm as a part of Chit Chat with Susie.  Contributions always welcomed.  A new day and time, but still the place for writing and reading enthusiasts to find out more about walking in the wonder of writing.

Who Wrote That? has moved to a new time slot on  Fridays at 1.15pm as a part of Chit Chat with Susie. We can still look forward to the interviews with published and aspiring writers, tips on writing, poems and stories.  The very popular “Unplugged!” version of the program will continue.  The local writers’ groups and independents will need to follow this webpage for more details

Who Wrote That? Producer and Presenter, Leanne Simpson said the move was due to work and family commitments.  “Who Wrote That? is very important to me and the writing community, it has given opportunities to us all that would have otherwise been unavailable.  The weekly program as led to the CD – Who Wrote That? Unplugged! In the Beginning being published and sold, two successful Utterfusion events that were held at the Mackay City Library and new friendships being made within the writing community.”

"I am back from up the country—very sorry that I went,—" began Henry Lawson  and Banjo Paterson continued it with "For the bush will never suit you, and you'll never suit the bush." The debate started in The Bulletin when Henry Lawson’s poem In the Country was published.  Banjo Paterson swiftly sent in his reply titled In Defence of the Bush.  This wrestling match of words went on for weeks and weeks.  Paul Vander Loos and Brooke McReynolds will recite these verses at the Info Publishing Poets in the Pub being held on Saturday 19 July at 7pm in the Pinnacle Hotel. This Festival of Arts event will also introduce award-winning bush poet Glenn Borland and rising stars, singing duo Patricia and Allyssia Galea.  The ever popular John Vassallo and regular Mackay Writer Group members will fill the program, with poetry of all kinds.Pre-purchase your $20 ticket and request a  seat on the free bus if required through the Mackay Entertainment Centre.  The Pinnacle Hotel is about 50kms up the Mackay Eungella Road. Meals will be available on the night.Paul Vander Loos and Brooke McReynolds will talk on Who Wrote That? on 4CRM 107.5FM Friday 11 July at 1.15pm  and Mackay Matters Monday 14 July between 12 and 1pm.  4CRM is Mackay’s Community Radio and is proud to support local non-profit organisations.

Oh, how I miss those ‘good old days’ and all the dust and sweat,Days that are for me all over – finished- done and yet.I live those days forever more – albeit in my mind,I’m proud to have been a part of the Stock and Station Game.(Extract from a poem by Rob Lawson) Journey back to those days with Rob Lawson through his book of bush poetry called Where the Heart Is.  Join a drover’s camp, meet Louie Bong’s horse and set up the Boggabilla Rodeo as you turn the pages. Rob has been writing poetry since he finished work nine years ago and is now making his dream of seeing his name in print on a cover of a book (or three) a reality.  Where the Heart is, is his first book and the second is about to go to the printers. Being self-published the selling is all up to him and each week you can find Rob setting up his books along side the fudge at his and wife Carolyn’s market stall. Last year he re-visited his birth place Longreach and now has copies for sale at the Longreach Hall of Fame.

Bent over I staggered up to reception. ‘I have dreadful pains in my shoulder blades. Can I see a doctor?’ ‘Please be seated Mr Woodhead.’The last time we heard about Col Woodhead was in former Mackay resident, Mary Woodhead’s novel about raising 15 children and her thoughts on over coming hurdles in life called Who Wants to Know? This introduced us to Col as he worked hard to keep his family afloat.  Second Chance is Mrs Woodhead’s next offering it takes us from Col’s birth in 1930 through to that moment. Col grew up in the years of depression and war with challenges including the loss of family members and the bitterness of religious bigotry. Although this novel is a collection of stories on the life and times of Mary’s husband Col, it gives an insight into the changing views of society. A sportsman, Midshipman (Reserve) in the Sea Cadets, a Cadet Midshipman aboard the S.S. Barrigun and a Junior Clerk for Goldsbrough Mort were just the beginning of Col’s occupations. As for adventures there is a ride in the flood waters of Maryborough’s Mary River, the auctioneering of cattle and pigs and the pressure of exporting live cattle to Egypt. While the life’s adversities are serious, Mrs Woodhead’s writing manner has the reader feeling warm and at times laughter as Col’s zest for life conquers all. An interesting publishing aspect is how the narrator’s voice and Col’s own words are put together.Tune to Who Wrote That? on 4CRM on 107.5FM, Wednesday 18 June at 12.15pm when Mrs Woodhead will chat about her books and give us some writing tips. The author’s contact number is 07 5543 1722.   

Who Wrote That? has been re-vamped and is a 1/2 hour program each Wednesday after the 12 Noon News.  It will be entertaining and informative and allow listeners to have their lunch with me as I walk in the wonder of writing.

I will be posting my Midweek column on this blog, on the Sunday night after it has been published.  This will help out readers who are unable to get a copy.

Until Sunday.  Get those pens on the paper and write down maybe a little of your experiences in life. 

The quest to be published is a long journey for a writer.  With the publishing houses’ doors seemly closed tightly. The opportunity to tell the world your tale is perceived as a distant and impossible dream, this is not true. It is all about being creative in your marketing as well.  4crm’s Who Wrote That? is about providing an outlet for writers of any genre to share their work. Each week the program will have stories and poems from aspiring writers, information segments such as the Word Doctor and interviews with published and popular authors. Each month we will look at a popular novel with a book review and an interview with the author.  For February it is Skin and Bone by Kathryn Fox. More details can be found on www.4crm.com.au look for the Who Wrote That? page in programs.

On Wednesday 20 February tune into 4crm 107.5FM as members of the Mackay Writers Group talk about their newly released anthology Book, Rhyme and Thinker. They will take us through the process from idea to published and perform some of their work. The group formally know as the Mackay-Pioneer Valley Arts Council Writers Group is using the launch of this book as an opportunity to have an open day to increase their membership. Many established authors recommend being a part of a writers group, as it helps to motivate, educate and provide valuable contacts for its members. The Mackay Writers Group open day will be at the Gordon White Library on Saturday 23 February starting at 10am. 

The ultimate goal for most writers is to become published.  What does that mean? One dictionary offers these answers, to make publicly know; to issue (a printed work etc.) to the public, as for sale or to issue the written works of a particular author. With these definitions in mind it is then time to look at the ways in which a writer can reach this objective.With determination, lots of hard work and skill and maybe a little luck a writer can be picked up by a publishing house.  The story and the author have to be just right for the market at that time.  One such story theme that will never be irrelevant is the adventures and trails of the men and women who opened up Australia’s vast agricultural land, add to this an author with passion and skill and there is a story to be read. Marie Mahood lives two hours south west of Mackay on a property and has 11 books to her credit.  The Icing on the Damper has been condensed by Reader Digest.  Her Serendipity trilogy finishes with The Last Dry Creek a fictional saga with strong factual influences that continues the story of two families of rural battlers, one white and one black.For other authors there is the option of Printing On-demand, this sees a publisher agree to have a book available for printing as an order is received.  This has evolved into a successful option with the now frequent use of the internet.  Readers simply googles the name of the author and a link to the publisher appears and ordering can be done on-line.  Available in this way is The Wizard’s Sword by Paul Vander Loos. Travel with the curious erfin, Mirrortac as he deals with tree-dwelling and winged faugs, chattering petros and see lands that only a fantasy novel can take you. It is a journey of body, mind and spirits filled with magic and wonder.Self-publishing sees the book in the hands of the author, who must look after all the marketing and sales. This is a great choice for writers whose works may have been considered by publishers to have a limited market therefore not profitable in a mass marketing campaign.  Self-publishing gives the booklover a chance to read poetry, family histories and autobiographies of people that they may have met or heard of in their home town.  A Mackay TAFE teacher Bill Young’s novel Dooglebugger tells about his experiences in oil, gas and coal exploration in Australia and Indonesia, there are funny and sad times and plenty of knowledge holding this book together.Three Abell Men by Colin Abell tells of the settlers of Jubilee Pocket, now known as Airlie Beach.  The original text was written by his father Edward and presents a rare glimpse into the lives of people who left their homeland to settle in an almost hostile environment, little knowing that the same land would eventually become priceless.A book for children with added bonus of giving to the charity RSPCA is another self- published offering.  Little Ginger Finds a Home by Marnie Hamilton and illustrated by Harry Bruce, is a colourful and entertaining look at how important it is to look after your pets and provide a good home.  From Pen to Paper by Myrtle Harris, gives her collection of poems, verse and limericks a home and reminds us how important poetry can be to express your feelings about issues including charities, news items and even petitions to the council.To write poetry that tells of bush and everyday experiences is a skill envied by many.  Rob Lawson has put together Where the Heart Is? a collection of poems and released it just in time for Christmas.A simpler mode of publishing is to produce a booklet.  This can easily be achieved with the advanced inexpensive technology now available.   The Long and The Short by Beryl Edwards, Beverley Sewell and Renie West is an example of what can be achieved with a little bit of determination. All these Mackay and District authors will be appearing on 4crm’s Who Wrote That? Wednesday noon to 2pm on 107.5FM over the next few weeks reminding us that a book is a great Christmas present. 

Christmas was welcomed into the lives of the writers of Mackay as 4crm’s Who Wrote That? hosted Utterfusion Christmas Reunion at the Mackay City Library last Saturday.    The audience sat back and relaxed with a morning tea as they were entertained with stories and poems that told the joys and heartache of this time of year. 

Utterfusion is a concept developed by Leanne Simpson and made possible with the support of 4crm and Mackay Libraries.  It is about providing an opportunity for participants to share their work with fellow writers and members of the community.  It was first held in Adult Learners Week and was used for the launching of the CD Who Wrote That? Unplugged In the Beginning. It is hoped that Utterfusion will happen again in the Library in the 2008.

see photos on the Who Wrote That? page of www.4crm.com.au - programs - community news etc

The 4crm’s Who Wrote That? show for Wednesday 10 October looks at a book by Dr Kevin Smith, Escapes and Incursions (a companion to Borneo Australia’s Proud but Tragic Heritage 1999).  We talk with the author and start reading extracts from the book as a way to gain insight into a time that must not be forgotten.   Movies have provided the only history lesson for many of us.  The belief that only six Australian prisoners of war survived their Borneo captivity is in fact a condensing of the truth.
The reality is that 1812 Australian POWs sent to Borneo including 12 men from Mackay, 2 from Proserpine and one from Finch Hatton did not survive, but 218 endured hardships unimaginable, to make it home after the war. Part one of Dr Kevin Smith’s book Escapes and Incursions focuses directly upon approximately ninety escapes and attempted escapes. These men were independent, intrepid souls who realise that their fate lay in their own hands. Some may be described as impulsive and stubbornly taking great risks with little thought, others meticulous planners, always they were men who needed to be free and determined to get home to Australia.  Chapter by Chapter we are introduced to these men, we learn their backgrounds, we share their freedom quests and we find out what became of them.  The second part of the book tells of the reconnaissance entries onto Sabah during 1943 to 1945 by small groups of Australian commandoes who were part of the “Z” Special Unit.

What genres do you write?  For new writers this can a little bit of a knee shaker, we have just started to write and really don’t know anything about genres. Dictionary.com defines it as a category of artistic composition, as in music or literature, marked by distinctive style, form or content.  On 4crm’s Who Wrote That? our aim is to encourage writing therefore we are not governed by genre as to the style and type of works we call for.  If you have a great story or poem be it fiction or non-fiction and would like to have it published on-air, this is an opportunity for you to do so. There are a number of ways to get involved in 4crm’s Who Wrote That? such as your work can be read by a presenter of 4crm or you can go Unplugged!The first Wednesday of each month the show goes Unplugged! This is an opportunity for writers to present their stories or poems as a live to air performance. This has proven to be very popular with 6 writers from U3A Creative Writers Group taking the plunge last month. Wednesday, 3^rd October is our next Unplugged! and we have poets and storytellers ready to take you on their journeys.  The following weeks we talk with published Authors on various topics: escapes for the prison camps of Borneo, the thoughts of a migrant when they first settle in Australia, Australia’s involvement in the Boxer rebellion of 1900 and living in a hotel where intrigue is on the menu.  Some of these works are non-fiction and others fiction.  These interviews may help you on your way to finding the genre, you would like to write or maybe just set your imagination on fast forward.  Write it down or you will never know unless you have a go!

A month or two ago a man wandered into 4crm looking every part a bushie. After a bit of a chat he said he had heard that the station had a show about writing and he was the Queensland Open Male Bush Poetry Champion for 2007. He was heading down south to put together a CD of his work and would we prepare an interview about him to help out with the publicity.  So right then and there we started up the microphone and talked bush poetry.  What is bush poetry, I asked?  He replied, Bush poetry is writing about what you know about…This man’s name is Mark “Bushie” Thompson and he resides in Walkerston between bush poetry gigs. His CD Where Else Would a Man Want to Be, starts with the title track, shares some well-known verse and finishes off with Bushie having the last word.  This modern day swagman hitchhikes around the countryside telling and collecting the tales about matters close to every Australian heart. This week on 4crm’s Who Wrote That? we air this interview and listen to some of the tracks from the CD. We look again at Haiku, a Japanese poetry form, which experts consider to be more that a small poem with 3 lines of 5,7,5 syllables. There will be a variety of poems and stories as well.Next week I am joined by Jim Ford, principal of Mercy College in interviewing Prof Thomas Homer-Dixon, author of The Upside of Down about the environment and taking note of what history is telling us can happen. 

Are you a writer? Maybe you have this yearning to write but just don’t know where to start. Why don’t you tune in to 4crm’s Who Wrote That? This program is presented on Mackay’s Community Radio each Wednesday at Noon on 107.5FM.  There are stories and poems, chats with aspiring writers, interviews with published Authors and opportunities for organisations to share how they are encouraging writing.  Being the first Wednesday, the airwaves come alive again as 4crm’s Who Wrote That? goes Unplugged!  The U3A Creative Writers group provide the entertainment with week as Hugh Halls becomes a talking head, Patricia Russell, Rob Lawson, Robyn King, Beverley Sewell and Jennifer Mayes share their stories and poems with us.  These talented writers are continuing their performing journey after their success at Utterfusion last Saturday.  This poetry and story-telling day was an outstanding success as a crowd of 70 filled the foyer of the Mackay City Library. Laughter, sometimes tears and applause rang out as the audience cheered on first time and seasoned performers.  The light refreshments proved a hit and the sing-a-long led by musician, Peter Taaffe brought everyone back to their seats for more stories and poems.  The launch of the CD Who Wrote That? Unplugged! In the Beginning opened the doors to a lot of autograph signing as purchasers tracked down the writers using the Why Creative Write booklet included with the CD.  There are a few copies of the CD still available and can be purchased at the 4crm stall at the Victoria Street Markets this Sunday.In all it was a brilliant day with 4crm and Mackay Libraries proving they really do belong to the community. Who Wrote That? is about encouraging writing and is on the look out for writers who would like to join in.  Writers of poetry, short stories, novels, lyrics and articles are requested to  please make contact with Leanne Simpson.   

go to www.4crm.com.au for photos from Utterfusion

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The focus this week of 4CRM’s Who Wrote That? is Adult Learners’ Week .  It takes place in more than 40 countries around the world and has been held in Australia very year since 1995, by joining in the celebrations together we are raising the profile of learning and highlighting its value to our community.  Joining the show for a chat is Hugh Halls, who lets us glimpse briefly into his life and his arrival at U3A Creative Writers. His trip to find his creative side will certainly encourage others to consider venturing into this pastime. Dr Liz Huf from Central Queensland University’s Idiom23 Literary Magazine discusses opportunities for writers available through the magazine’s Bauhinia Literary Awards and the Byfield Rainforest writers’ workshop and helps out with the quest to find out more about adult learning. Sandy Curtis, thriller romance author, with five books, Dance with the Devil, Black Ice, Deadly Tide, Until Death and Dangerous Deception to her credit takes us from idea to finished manuscript.With a great line up of stories and poems included in the line up, this week’s show will lead us to putting our pens on the paper. No matter how old we are – we learn everyday.Adult Learners’ Week will take off in Mackay with Utterfusion, a day of poetry, storytelling and a good old sing-a-long on Saturday, 1^st September, to be held at Mackay City Library starting at 10am.  The event will be hosted by 4crm and Mackay Libraries and will include the launch of Who Wrote That? Unplugged, In the Beginning.  This CD is a compilation of live to air performances of eighteen writers and will be available for purchase on the day. Please join us as we celebrate Adult Learners’ Week with Utterfusion, by taking the audience to a time before the advent of electronic entertainment, when the mind conjured the images of a tale. There will be light refreshments served so please advise your attendance to assist with catering to Mackay Libraries on  4957 7187. 

The aim of 4CRM’s Who Wrote That? is to encourage people to start writing.  Another organisation has also done that, the Sarina Historical Society’s Memory Lane Project is about to launch a book with the words and thoughts of 165 families that have been recognised in the Memory Lane.  All good tales have a beginning and this starts under the trees in the Fields of Dreams in the centre of Sarina, here you will find the plagues.  These plagues have been placed here to record the contribution of the different families of Sarina.  As family members signed up for the plagues they chatted and told their stories to the members of the Sarina Historical Society Memory Lane Project and like all great historians the group knew what they had to do, collect those stories, for future generations to enjoy.  The name of the book is still under wraps and all will be revealed at the launch on Sunday, 26 August.On Who Wrote That? this week we talk with Carolyn Scott, spokesperson for the organisation she takes us through the journey to published book and passes on some great advise for those who may be considering a similar venture.The other guest for the day will be Carrie Cox, well known ex-Mackay resident, weekly columnist for various regional newspapers and author of You Take the High Road and I’ll Take the Bus.  This author is able to write about the funny side of life and provides great entertainment as we catch up and find out about combining motherhood and writing.  We discuss the consequences, that may be a great story someday but for now is a rewarding challenge.  Tune in and you will be inspired to get your pen on paper as everyone has to start somewhere.

Only 2 weeks to go to Utterfusion 

 This event would not be possible without the support of Allan Berry, Ross Usher, Andrea McCarthy, Susie Topham, 4crm, Mackay Libraries, U3A Creative Writers, Mackay Writers and independent writers. Check out the great poster designed by Bonnie Simpson (on 4crm.com.au).  Peter Taaffe is providing the music for the day for the price of 1000 thankyous.  
All these wonderful people have taken the plunge into unknown waters; I thank them with all my heart. 

Who Wrote That? Unplugged! In the Beginning CD

The booklet has been printed, the cd are being burnt as I write, all is on the go.  Limited number of copies make sure to order them.

Age is no barrier to becoming a published author and 4CRM’s Who Wrote That? guest for this week Mrs Myrtle Harris is a true testament to this.  Born on 28 November, 1921, Mrs Harris went to school at Marian State School.  Beginning her poetry writing at an early age she has now realised her publishing dream with a collection of poems, verse and limericks, From Pen to Paper.  From the adventures of Toby in The Escape to what it would be like to become the head-cutter at the local abattoirs, the themes for her poetry are many and varied.  On the show we get to know Mrs Harris, just a little bit and hear one of her poems.  We may just tempt you, into making a purchase.  From Pen to Paper by Myrtle Harris will be launched at the Gordon White Library on Saturday 1st September at 2pm.If travel writing sounds like a great way to make a living then tune in to 107.5fm as I chat with freelance travel writer, Jeanette L Gibbs. Specialising in family destinations Jeanette and her sons travel Australia on the look out for the ultimate holiday attractions.  Her work can be found in a monthly travel column in the Sunday Mail’s Escape and she submits to Virgin’s in-flight Voyeur Magazine and Holidays with Kids. I ask if it is true that it is all about fabulous food and utter indulgence. Her response to this plus a lot of tips about how to start a writing career are discussed on the show.  Next Week on the show we are joined by Carolyn Scott, spokesperson for the Sarina Historical Society’s Memory Lane Project and find out about their book launch on the 26^th August. Our other guest is a well known ex-Mackay resident, weekly columnist for various regional newspapers and author of You Take the High Road and I’ll Take the Bus, Carrie Cox. We discuss the direction of her writing now.Until next time get pen on paper as everyone has to start somewhere.

Adult Learners’ Week 1-7 September Utterfusion A combination of poetry, storytelling and a good old sing-a-longThe Mackay Libraries and 4CRM will host Mackay and District writers from U3A Creative Writers Group, Mackay Writers Group and independent writers as they take us to a time before the advent of electronic entertainment, when the mind conjured the imagines of a tale. A musician will have us reminiscing and sharing with the younger generation songs that made nearly every voice sound good.   The lost art of telling poems and short stories to audiences may easily disappear, Utterfusion, hopes to start a trend, to make it entertaining and to make the dreams of the writer be heard. Through her weekly community radio program “Who Wrote That? 4CRM presenter Leanne Simpson encourages people to start writing. The popularity of the once a month Unplugged! show highlighted the need for writers to publicly perform their works, as a result Utterfusion has been created.  The day will also see the launch of the CD Who Wrote That? Unplugged! In The Beginning, a compilation of recorded ‘live to air’ presentations from the writer’s themselves. This will be accompanied by a booklet about the writers involved that documents their thoughts on “Why creative write?” The CD and booklet will be launched and available for purchase on this day. Saturday 1 September
From 10.00am
Mackay City Library
Light refreshments will be provided.
Please RSVP for catering purposes by Tuesday 28 August on 49571787 Mackay Libraries and Leanne Simpson (4CRM) acknowledge Mackay City Council Regional Arts Development Fund (the RADF is a partnership program between the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland and Local Government to support arts and cultural development and the Department of Education, Science and Training for successful funding applications that have made this project possible.

Describe what you are planning to do and what will happen during your project.This project’s final outcome will be to sell a CD of the works of Mackay writers (approximately 20 people) who have participated on 4crm’s “Who Wrote That?” This program airs each Wednesday at Noon on 4crm 107.5fm.  There will be a disc containing their work with a printed label inserted into a plastic case.I will record the “live” presentations of the writers and put these into a wave or MP3 format for transferring to a CD.  A company will be employed to make multiple copies and print a label.  (All the artwork will be design by local art student Bonnie Simpson)The CD will be launched and available for purchase on the 1^st of September at a poetry and storytelling day to be held at the Mackay City Council.  This date is the beginning of Adult Learning Week. The CD will also be available from 4crm.  

What are your project’s aims?

For others -To provide an opportunity for writers to perform their own work - To provide an opportunity for writers to get published - To record the voices of these writers - To encourage writers no to give up on writing - To encourage people to start writing

-For myself - To expand my knowledge - tp get exposure for my writing - To provide a sense of pride in myself by doing something for the community

A vibrant voyage was promised by Whitsunday Voices and they certainly delivered for this writer.  The Launch on Wednesday was entertaining and inspiring insuring the audience was left wanting more.  Friday provided an opportunity for me to go walking in the wonder of writing.  First stop the display of prints by Narelle Oliver, her clever combining of lino printing with pastels, water colours and collage gave an opportunity to gather one’s strength before setting out into the Whitsunday Anglican School’s grounds in search of an author or two.  Matt Dray had the preps to grade 4 lapping up his every word as his book was projected up onto the big screen and the characters in his book were given voices.  The literary treasure Mem Fox discussed Wombats and shared her stories and anecdotes in the next hall.  After battling the roving Cat in the Hat and a white fuzzy animal resembling the Bundy Bear, I quickly quelled my childhood fear of walking, stuffed, overgrown toys and ventured to the school oval.  There Andrew Daddo had senior students enthralled as he discussed how each reader’s particular imagination had the power to give a book’s characters different voices and mannerisms. He talked through a scene in his book where the characters ponder the art of kissing. “You open your mouth slightly just big enough to fit in a cherryripe, but not a mars bar.” I scan the audience there were over a hundred teenagers refining this very valuable life lesson.  I reluctantly wander off, towards a booming voice and laughter.  I have found Terry Denton.  The next 10 minutes I sat glued to his every word as he showed us the world of an illustrator.  His connection with his young audience was evident; they (myself included) lapped up his every word.  It was time to head off, I did with regret, if only I was still a school kid (just for the day) I could stay, listen and learn, find out that being creative was awesome! 

With the Whitsunday Voices about to start next week, 4crm’s Who Wrote That? guests for 18 July will be Mackay West State School writers, Sam Haines, Thomas Fischer and Jasmine Sandes . These young people will entertain us with some wonderful award winning stories and poems. Mrs Margaret Spillman Teacher/librarian for the school will chat about how to encourage your child or grandchild to read and write.