After nearly eight years in the ‘hot seat’ Dan Fredericks facilitated the Parkes writers group Author-rised for the very last time this month. Saying farewell to him were standing (L – R) Peter Colbourne, Heather Veal, Matthew Kennedy, Benson O’Donnell, Laura Harvey, Rex Veal and Jay Richards. Dan in front is holding some chocolate cookies that Benson made and decorated to say “Farewell Dan”.
While I was an original member of Author-rised when it started in August 2012, I wasn’t working for Parkes Library then. I commenced as facilitator of the group in 2014, when it became one of my work duties.
However, it was never a chore, rather a labour of love. To be able to research the many topics of writing, and see writers hone their craft and improve has been most satisfying.
Writers have been part of special projects – such as Stories on a Coffee Cup and the Skywriters Anthology – as well as taking part in many writer festivals. The Stories on a Coffee Cup was a unique concept where every café in the Parkes Shire received free coffee cups. Each cup had one of three different (very) short stories or poems. To improve the mood of the experience, these short stories and poems were written on serviettes!
We have had author talks, writing workshops and even hosted an editor! One of the most popular features of an Author-rised session is “Share If You Dare”, where writers can choose to share a piece of their writing and ask for feedback.
Author-rised is a supportive, positive place for writers of all abilities, from ages 13 to 113! While my aim was to see it become a great place and space for writing; each Author-rite has contributed to creating and maintaining the encouraging environment where writing can flourish.
I would like to thank Parkes Library staff for their continued support of the group, as well as each Author-rite who has contributed over the years.
By Dan Fredericks