Emerging Writers Festival

I had the great pleasure to be on two panels at the Emerging Writers Festival last week.  The first was a panel called 'Tough Topics'. Schizophrenia was my tough topic, and I spoke about my two books, my life with schizophrenia, and some of the volunteering I am doing for the Mental Illness Fellowship of Victoria.  I was joined by Romy Ash, Sydney Smith and Fregmonto Stokes.  The panel was chaired by Ruby J Murray.  We had a great discussion about how to best write about tough topics.  At one point, when asked what I wouldn't write about, I said "Britney Spears".  Many laughs from the audience. The panel was being filmed by ABC1 for their show 'Big Ideas'.  We'll see if we get on!

The second panel I was on was called Letters to the Editor, and was more of a free form Q & A with the audience.  We broached many topics, including digital media, publishing people from disadvantaged backgrounds, and Australian Literature. I spoke about the desire to write as being and important motivator, and the financial difficulties of being a writer.

Over all it was a great weekend, and I met many great people.  Even signed a few books!