Writers can become disheartened, but it’s the ones who have the persistence to keep working through uncertainty, through the lack of recognition and acknowledgement, who have the highest chance of succeeding.
Over the last month I’ve witnessed a rush of good writers who have seen their hard work pay off. Their achievements are an exciting tribute to their persistence, skill and creative imagination. Hearty congratulations and three cheers for the following writers.
Maree Gallop won second prize in the Hunter Writers’ Centre Grief Competition for her short story, The Clothes Heist. Her beautiful story is included in the anthology of short-listed stories titled Grieve, which is published as an ebook on Amazon. If Maree’s story and the moving piece which was read at the launch last Thursday is any indication of the quality of the publication, it is one not to be missed. Selling at $0.99 it’s a steal.
Dee Taylor (centre)
Dee Taylor won third prize in The Port Stephens Examiner Literary Awards last month and won the Tanilba House Award for her heart-warming memoir, Time Travellers.
Phil Murray was awarded two Highly Commendeds in the same competition.
Kath Cridland was also recognised with a commended.
It takes courage to send out writing to competitions and publishers, and it can be shattering to continually get back rejection slips. What counts is getting back up, brushing off the dust, working hard to improve your skills and persevering. But, above all, immerse yourself in the pleasure of writing.
Who knows, next time it might be your turn.
The Writers' Life 
Karen, thanks for highlighting the benefits of perseverance with writing and for acknowledging the achievements of Maree, Dee, Phil and Kath. I found ‘Congratulations’ encouraging!
Hi Diana. Perseverance can’t be underrated. It’s a privilege and inspiration for me to work with so many dedicated writers.
So true, Karen, so true 🙂
Thanks for the affirmation, Anne.
Thank you Karen for your generous comments. It was so exciting to win a place in the Grieve competition, but mostly I’m proud to be a part of an anthology that will raise awareness around the subject of grief. I heard all 25 stories at the Grieve Live Read and they are beautiful and touching short stories of exceptional quality. The anthology is a valuable contribution to our community. Thank you to Hunter Writers’ Centre for having the foresight to be involved. The competition will be repeated in 2014.
Congratulations Dee, Phil and Kath – well done for your achievements.
All those successes were well deserved, Maree. And it’s even better when you’re part of something that makes people’s lives a little easier. Congratulations again!