Links Seaside by Warrigal hosted a celebratory event on 18 October to launch the new anthology Shifting Sands.
Shifting Sands features 74 stories and poems written by SeaQuills members, and authors Gwen Wilson, Amelia Fielden, Annabelle Quinn, Jim Lackie, Christine Sykes, Penelope Murphy, Marg McKay, and Joni Braham all shared excerpts and spoke about how the group has shaped their creative journeys.
The event drew a large and supportive crowd but Warrigal chief operating officer and acting chief executive officer Craig Smith said it was more than just a book launch.
The event was a celebration of “the power of voice, the strength of community, and the joy that comes from creative expression,” he said.
“At Warrigal, we often talk about dignity and choice. But SeaQuills demonstrates something even more vital: it shows us what happens when residents are genuinely empowered to pursue their passions and contribute meaningfully to their communities,” Mr Smith added.
The SeaQuills writing group is celebrating the publication of its new anthology Shifting Sands (Warrigal)
The SeaQuills group was formed two years ago, with Warrigal’s support, and brings together eight writers from the retirement village Links Seaside by Warrigal and the local area.
The not-for-profit aged care provider’s support for SeaQuills is not just because they think older people need activities to fill their time, Mr Smith said, rather it is a recognition that everyone needs opportunities to grow, contribute and pursue the things that bring them joy.
The group supports all forms and genres of writing but encourages members to challenge themselves with new genres and aims to build purpose while creating space to form new friendships.
The book is available on Amazon, or readers can purchase signed copies and meet the authors at the Makers Market on 8-9 November at the University of Wollongong Innovation Campus.
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