INSPIRATIONAL WRITERS GROUP PROJECT OF ISLAND MEMORIES
'Diamonds on the Water,' the Macleay Island Inspirational Writers Group's latest project, was recently released.
'Diamonds on the Water' is a book of stories from Southern Moreton Bay Islanders.
The Macleay Island Inspirational Writers Group received an RADF grant for producing the book and Kim Richards sponsored the book launch held on 2nd December at the Macleay Island Progress Hall.
Inspiration for the book came from Trent Dalton's book 'Love Stories.'
Trent set up a table and two chairs and a typewriter in the CBD and asked passers by, 'Tell me your love stories'.
The writers group set up a table with a typewriter outside The Blue Parrot Cafe on Macleay Island and asked passersby: 'Tell us your Island stories."
Margaret Smeaton headed a group of MIIWG members to record the stories on their mobile phones. Photographer, Meg Geering, drove Margaret Smeaton around to people's houses to tape more interviews. MIAC members, Karragarra Writers and Writer's On Water and The Karragarra Community Garden joined in the project.
Local residents were keen to share their stories of why they came to live on the Islands and what Island life is like.
Natalie Sprite, writing mentor and author from Lamb Island collated the book for printing.
The first of the 31 stories is "Diamonds on the Water" by Solveig Prescott and prompted the choice of the book title and cover.
The book launch provided a chance to give back to all those generous people who shared their stories with the writers.
Mary Veitch's singing was a special treat and the authors of Diamonds on the Water who read from their stories gave a preview of how enriching and diverse the stories are.
The Macleay Island Inspirational Writers Group has partnered again with The Macleay Island Progress Association, MIAC, Kim Richards office and Redland City Council to bring this project to fruition for the inclusion and enjoyment of our Island community.
These stories reflect the different times and people who shared or now share our Island lifestyle. It's a great read.
Diamonds on the Water is available from The Macleay Island Inspirational Writer's Group for $20. See our facebook page or call 34095886.
The Macleay Island Inspirational Writers Group meets at the MI Progress Hall, the first Monday of the month at 9.30am. We resume after Christmas on 5th February, 2024.
• At the book release event.
• Margaret Smeaton