Look Who’s TalkingLITERARY EVENTS - LOCAL HISTORY - WELLBEING - LOCAL STORIES - LOCAL AUTHORS

2015 Program

2014 2

ContentsLITERARY EVENTS AT YOUR LIBRARY .................................. 1 - 7BACK IN BUSINESS - BLANCHE D’ALPUGET ................................. 1ROMANCE OF THE BUSH - NICOLE ALEXANDER ......................... 2IDEAS THAT CHANGED THE WORLD ............................................ 2THE NARROW ROAD TO THE DEEP NORTH ................................. 3BOOKS TO LIVE BY - BOOK CLUB SPECIAL ..................................... 3THE CLIMB - GERALDINE DOOGUE ............................................ 4THIS HOUSE OF GRIEF - HELEN GARNER .......................................... 5YOU’RE KILLING ME ........................................................................ 6WORLD PHILOSOPHY DAY IS DEMOCRACY STILL RELEVANT FOR OUR 21ST CENTURY WORLD? ................................................................. 6ADDICTED TO AFRICA - TONY PARK ................................................ 7LOCAL HISTORY ................................................................... 8 - 9NEWSFRONT .................................................................................... 8LAUNCH OF THE CYNTHIA HUNTER COLLECTION ................ 8ROMANCE OF MAPS ...................................................................... 9WAR, NATIONALISM AND IDENTITY ............................................. 9WELLBEING ..................................................................... 10 - 11MYTHS OF AGEING ......................................................................... 10A COMPASSIONATE LIFE ............................................................. 10THE LIFE OF I: TRANSCENDING OUR NARCISSTIC CULTURE ............................. 11THE GIFT OF GRATITUDE ........................................................ 11LOCAL STORIES ................................................................. 12 - 13NEW BEGINNINGS ......................................................................... 12TRANSFORMATION ....................................................................... 12HOPE .............................................................................................. 13LOCAL AUTHORS ............................................................... 14 - 15THERE ARE NO WAVES IN MOGADISHU - GREG BLAZE ............ 14PARAS - VOICES OF THE BRITSH AIRBORNE FORCES IN WORLD WAR TWO - ROGER PAYNE ....................................... 14FEET OF WAX: LOVE AND WAR ON THE EASTERN FRONT 1914 – 1918 - JOANNA HEMPEL ..................... 15ALL THINGS CONSIDERED: FRESH PERSPECTIVES ON KIDS, FAMILIES, LOVE, LIFE AND HAPPINESSTARNYA DAVIS .............................................................................. 15BOOK CLUBS AND BOOK CHATS ........................................... 16

Look Who’s Talking - Literary events at your library 1

BACK IN BUSINESSBLANCHE D’ALPUGETAfter an almost 20 year hiatus from writing, the indomitable Blanche d’Alpuget is back. The acclaimed novelist, biographer and essayist has returned to the writing scene with The Young Lion and The Lion Rampant, the first books of a series on two of the most fascinating characters in medieval history, Henry II and Eleanor of Aquitaine. The novels plunge the reader into the sexually and politically charged world of European royalty in the age of the Crusades.

Don’t miss the chance to hear Blanche talk about her writing, from the early years and acclaimed novels, to the life-changing Hawke biography, to her latest project.

6.00pm – 8.00pmTuesday 24 MarchMaddies of Bolwarra$20

2 Look Who’s Talking - Literary events at your library

ROMANCE OF THE BUSHNICOLE ALEXANDERRural romance is one of the hottest trends in Australian writing at the moment. The last few years have seen a boom in the number of novels set in rural Australia written by female farmers, giving voice to the strong, feisty women who work the land in regional Australia - women who love their dogs more than shopping and their utes more than sports cars.

Dig deeper into the popularity of rural romance with a panel headed by Nicole Alexander, a fourth generation grazier and best-selling author of The Great Plains, The Bark Cutters, A Changing Land, Absolution Creek and the WWI epic, Sunset Ridge.

6.00pm – 8.00pmMonday 13 AprilOrganic Feast$20

IDEAS THAT CHANGED THE WORLDAn idea can change the world, or perhaps just change your world. From the simple to the complex, ideas continue to give colour and shape to our lives.

From feminism, cities and the 20th century obsession with freedom to future focused scenario planning or cutting edge creative design, our panellists will bring a wealth of knowledge and experience as they explore the diverse ideas that have changed the world.

Author, columnist and speaker Elizabeth Farrelly, will be joined by trend spotters and deep thinkers at this inspiring event.

6.00pm - 8.00pmFriday 15 May Maitland Regional Art Gallery$20

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THE NARROW ROAD TO THE DEEP NORTHDescribed as a masterpiece, The Narrow Road to the Deep North explores the light and dark sides of humanity through the story of prisoners of war building the notorious Thai-Burma railway. The novel preserves the possibility of redemption in the face of relentless tragedy and loss with characters and themes that become richer and deeper as the story progresses.

Explore Richard Flanagan’s Booker Prize and Prime Minster’s Literary Award winning novel with our esteemed panelists in a stimulating and thought-provoking discussion.

6.00pm – 8.00pm Thursday 4 June Temple Bar $20

BOOKS TO LIVE BYBOOK CLUB SPECIALThe power of books and stories allows readers to make emotional connections with characters, find strength in their own situations or escape to different places. Books can provide comfort, direction and guidance throughout life, their stories and messages resonating with us, allowing us to recognise something in ourselves, or influencing the decisions we make.

Looking for some good books to get you through the winter months? Find the next must-have title as you get an insight into some great reading recommendations from iconic Maitland identities. Bring along your book club.

10.30am - 12.00pm Wednesday 22 July River Royal Inn $20

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THE CLIMB GERALDINE DOOGUEIconic journalist and television presenter Geraldine Doogue turns her attention to an issue central to our times in her latest book, The Climb. How are women represented at the top levels of power in Australia?

Inspiring and insightful, The Climb reveals a varied and at times quite unexpected picture of contemporary Australia.

Geraldine Doogue is a renowned Australian journalist and broadcaster, host of Radio National’s Saturday Extra and ABC Television’s Compass. She has won two Penguin Awards for excellence in broadcasting from the Television Society of Australia and a United Nations Media Peace Prize.

6.00pm – 8.00pm Monday 10 August Latter Hall, Hunter Valley Grammar School $20

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THIS HOUSE OF GRIEFHELEN GARNEROn Father’s Day 2005, Robert Farquharson, a separated husband, was driving his three sons home to their mother when his car left the road and plunged into a dam. The boys, aged ten, seven and two, drowned. Was this an act of revenge or a tragic accident? The court case after the tragedy became author Helen Garner’s obsession. She followed its protracted course until the final verdict. Her latest book, This House of Grief; the story of a murder trial, is the outcome of this obsession.Helen Garner is joined by Newcastle Herald Walkley Award winning journalist Joanne McCarthy in a compelling discussion.6.00pm – 8.00pm Wednesday 2 September Maitland Regional Art Gallery $20

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YOU’RE KILLING MEArgh, you’re killing me! Everybody loves a good, juicy murder. What does it take to write a successful crime series? How do you ensure your plotting, characterisation and dialogue are sharp and engaging, with enough twists, turns and tension to keep readers guessing until the end?

Join leading Australian crime writers Barry Maitland and Robert Gott plus a mystery panellist as they delve into the murky world of crime writing and explore what it takes to write a successful crime series.

6.00pm – 8.00pmThursday 22 OctoberMaitland Gaol Chapel $20

Image Source: Michael Dawes, Flickr

WORLD PHILOSOPHY DAY - IS DEMOCRACY STILL RELEVANT FOR OUR 21ST CENTURY WORLD?What is a democracy? Is it government by the people? Has the loss of some of our freedoms reduced our democratic rights? The majority of members of the United Nation are not democracies as we know it. How does this impact our world? Explore these questions with the Hunter Valley Socratic Society in celebration of World Philosophy Day.

Thursday 19 November 6.00 pm – 8.00 pm Maitland Gaol Chapel Free

Look Who’s Talking - Literary events at your library 7

ADDICTED TO AFRICA TONY PARKWith novels that are set in mysterious Africa and filled with plenty of action and suspense, Australian Tony Park is described as our home-grown answer to Wilbur Smith. The author of 11 thrillers written on location in Africa where Tony spends 6 months of every year, Tony is set to release his latest title in November.

Tony Park has worked as a reporter, press secretary, PR consultant and freelance writer. He and his wife divide their time between Sydney and southern Africa where they own a home on the border of the Kruger National Park.

6.00pm – 8.00pmFriday 27 NovemberReader’s Cafe$20

8 Look Who’s Talking - Local history

NEWSFRONTA lively panel will discuss newsreel portrayal of the devastating 1955 Maitland flood, accompanied by a special screening of the digitally restored classic 1978 Australian film Newsfront, which contains footage from the ‘55 flood.

Presented by Maitland City Library, National Film and Sound Archive and Reading Cinemas, the forum will explore the impact of floods on the mind and psyche of the town and their representation in media and film.

6.00pm – 9.15pm Wednesday 25 February Reading Cinemas Free

LAUNCH OF THE CYNTHIA HUNTER COLLECTIONRespected historian, researcher and author Cynthia Hunter, whose many books and articles have provided us with a greater understanding and appreciation of the history of Maitland and the Hunter Valley, has donated her collection of research materials to Maitland City Library.

The Cynthia Hunter collection will be launched by Dr Cameron Archer AM, Director Tocal Agricultural Centre and Principal Tocal College. Frank Oakes representing Maitland City Heritage Group will discuss Cynthia’s valued contribution to Maitland’s heritage publications.

10.30am - 11.30am Friday 20 March Maitland LibraryFree Includes morning tea

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ROMANCE OF MAPSMaps have been around for centuries and have proven to be remarkably adaptable and useful. So, why do maps – even the simplest ones – warm our hearts?

Claire Philp is only one of a handful of estate cartographers worldwide, charting in meticulous detail the topographical features and buildings on properties she has been commissioned to document. Each map is unique and is considered a rare treasured work of art.

Join Claire Philp to explore the romance of maps in all their variety and beauty and celebrate the launch of Maitland City Library’s historic map collection.

6.00pm – 8.00pm Thursday 18 June Maitland Gaol Free

WAR, NATIONALISM AND IDENTITYIt is often argued that Australia’s military involvement in war and international theatres of conflict from The Sudan to Afghanistan has done much to shape an enduring image of Australian national character.

In War, Nationalism and Identity school students from Maitland high schools will present a personal view of their journey through the study of Australia in wartime and how it has shaped their own views of Australia’s history and national identity.

6.00pm – 8.00pm Thursday 10 September Maitland Gaol Free

10 Look Who’s Talking - Wellbeing

MYTHS OF AGEINGWhat does it mean to age well? Join Maureen Smith and Joan Morgan McCarthy as they debunk many of the myths associated with ageing and inspire us to live life to the fullest as we progress through the years.

6.00pm – 7.30pmTuesday 31 MarchRutherford LibraryFree

A COMPASSIONATE LIFEWe find it easy to be supportive and understanding to others, but can be disapproving and judgmental about ourselves. Research suggests that giving ourselves a break and accepting our imperfections may be the first step toward better health. Looking after ourselves amongst the many daily roles we play in life helps manage stress and develops daily inner peace.

Explore the benefits of a compassionate life with Deb Monument, Principal Nurse Consultant, Health Wellbeing Adviser, Speaker, Trainer at Blue Peacock Health.

6.00pm – 7.30pmWednesday 17 JuneThornton LibraryFree

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THE LIFE OF I: TRANSCENDING OUR NARCISSISTIC CULTUREWhen does self-love become unhealthy? What makes a narcissist and how does our culture of reality television, selfie-taking and celebrity-worship influence our values and the way we live together?

Anne Manne tackles these issues in a new book which shows how the destructive elements of narcissism can be transcended and a world where love and care can be created.

6.00pm – 7.30pmWednesday 23 SeptemberMaitland LibraryFree

THE GIFT OF GRATITUDEDo you see your glass as half full or half empty? Just a simple shift in perception can unlock the fullness of life. Gratitude turns what we have into enough, and more. Learn how to give yourself and others the beautiful gift of gratitude.

6.00pm – 7.30pmWednesday 25 NovemberEast Maitland LibraryFree

12 Look Who’s Talking - Local stories

NEW BEGINNINGSOur two speakers grew up in Europe during World War II. Terese Dron was only a child when she was used in Nazi experiments and Carolina Heitmeyer was a teenager in occupied territory. For both, Australia offered the chance of a new beginning. Hear them speak about the challenges of setting up a new life in a foreign country.

6.00pm – 7.30pmTuesday 21 AprilThornton Library Free

TRANSFORMATIONTransformation is defined as a marked change in form, nature, or appearance. Our speakers share the stories of two very different, yet equally powerful transformations in their lives. Ruth Trappell completed university at 63 and commenced a new phase in her life. Janice Hull found meaning, and through it herself, after her husband’s death.

6.00pm – 7.30pmTuesday 14 JulyEast Maitland Library Free

Look Who’s Talking - Local stories 13

HOPEHope comes in many forms and keeps us going through tough times. Marlene Murphy explores the importance of her role as a foster carer, providing love and support for kids who need it most and Michelle Davis discusses her charity H.O.P.E (Helping Other Parents Exist), which she established after the death of her two sons in a car accident.

6.00pm – 7.30pmTuesday 13 OctoberMaitland LibraryFree

14 Look Who’s Talking - Local authors

THERE ARE NO WAVES IN MOGADISHUGREG BLAZEIn his current life Greg Blaze is the Council engineer responsible for the redevelopment of the Maitland Mall. Not that long ago, his thirst for surfing adventures in remote and dangerous locations and his desire to use his engineering skills to help out those less fortunate, found him working as a humanitarian engineer for the United Nations in Mogadishu, then known as the most dangerous city on earth.His story is an often humorous account of uncommon exploits with extraordinarily amusing people. Share his bizarre experiences in a dangerous and demanding world, where many want to help but few dare to venture. Wednesday 11 February 6.00 pm – 7.30 pm Maitland Library Free

PARAS VOICES OF THE BRITSH AIRBORNE FORCES IN WORLD WAR TWOROGER PAYNERoger Payne recounts the stories of men who created the legend of the British Airborne Forces during the Second World War in his book Paras.When Winston Churchill ordered the creation of a British Airborne Force of 5,000 parachutists in 1940, the result was the 1st and 6th Airborne Divisions. This is their story, as told by the men themselves. Roger Payne survived selection for the Parachute Regiment in the early 1960s, serving in 1st Battalion Parachute Regiment and as an instructor at the Parachute Regiment Depot before accepting a position in the Australian army, where he served for 22 years. He holds the Order of Australia (OAM).Tuesday 3 March 6.00 pm – 7.30 pm East Maitland Library Free

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FEET OF WAX: LOVE AND WAR ON THE EASTERN FRONT 1914 – 1918JOANNA HEMPELInspired by real events, Feet of Wax begins in 1913 and moves across Poland, Lithuania and Russia as its main characters are forced by fate into dramatic circumstances on both sides of the Eastern Front during World War I. Political and military changes are seen through the eyes of these characters, their personal experiences inter-weaving with historical events in a landscape that becomes ravaged by war and revolution. The daughter of Polish refugees, Joanna Hempel is an established playwright in Australia, known for her tragi-comedies and their psychological insight. Informed by family journals, she is now working on Volume II of a planned trilogy. Thursday 30 April 6.00pm – 7.30pm Maitland Library Free

ALL THINGS CONSIDERED: FRESH PERSPECTIVES ON KIDS, FAMILIES, LOVE, LIFE AND HAPPINESSTARNYA DAVISTarnya has been writing a weekly column on the stuff of life from a psychological perspective for the Newcastle Herald for over 5 years. All Things Considered is a collection of Tarnya’s thoughts on children and parenting, relationships, our connection with our bodies, our minds and even how we think about death. Her book brings together a wealth of psychological research and anecdotes that have been of help to thousands of clients over the past 22 years. Touching on topics such as our connections with friends, partners and in-laws, being an introvert, mindfulness and even busyness, each of the book’s 150 columns gives useful insight on a different aspect of everyday life.Thursday 7 May 6.00pm – 7.30pm East Maitland LibraryFree

16 Look Who’s Talking - Book clubs - Book chats

BOOK CLUBS

If you enjoy reading, meeting people and discussing your opinions and ideas, one of our Book Clubs may be right for you. Discover the power of books in a group discussion that delves underneath the covers.

Thornton Library Third Saturday of month 10.30am - 11.30am

BOOK CHATS

Join a book chat for a casual discussion of interesting reads, book recommendations and the chance to meet new people.

East Maitland Library

Reading by the Park Third Friday of month 10.30am - 11.30am

Thornton Library

First Friday Book Chat First Friday of month 10.30am - 11.30am

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Connecting our community

Maitland Library480 High Street Maitland NSW 2320t 4933 6952 f 4934 5029maitland.library@maitland.nsw.gov.au

East Maitland LibraryGarnett Road East Maitland NSW 2323t 4933 7122 f 4934 5051eastmaitland.library@maitland.nsw.gov.au

Rutherford LibraryArthur Street Rutherford NSW 2320t 4932 8730 f 4932 8025rutherford.library@maitland.nsw.gov.au

Thornton LibraryTaylor Avenue Thornton NSW 2322t 4964 4468thornton.library@maitland.nsw.gov.au

maitland.nsw.gov.au/library