a wife, a mum to 3 adult children , an educator, and now an author!

I grew up on my families cattle/grazing farm in Barraba, NSW (approximately 90 minutes north of Tamworth). I have also lived in the city and in coastal areas over the years, but the rural life is in my blood.

Did working with young children influence your writing style?
Absolutely! It has helped me write in a way that’s simple, heartfelt, and meaningful for young readers.

Tell us a bit about the story of A New Crown, no spoilers!
It’s about a young girl who is one of 12 children, from a large rural family. It is warm, nostalgic and full of love.

Summarise the book in 3 words.
Family. Resilience. Heart.

Was the story inspired by any real-life events or places?
Yes, it’s set in my hometown of Barraba, where my grandmother (Joyce Abra ) who inspired the story lived. It’s full of little nods to some of her real memories that she shared about her childhood.

I started to write sown some memories on the day Joycie passed away. It quickly evolved into a story and even thought it started in April 2022

I wanted to finish what I started to honour her and her 11 siblings. Sadly, Clare- the youngest sibling is the only sibling who got to see the book but with such a huge extended family to share it with, I am so pleased to have seen it come to fruition

As an educator, I’ve read hundreds, but these never get old! Start small and write from the heart. You don’t need permission to begin …just start!

Can we expect another book soon?
Yes! My next book is about the ANZAC dawn service, which is very close to my heart and again inspired by family and set in Barraba.

I have a long line of military in my family and would like to honour that. There are a number of beautiful children’s books about Anzac Day but felt that Dawn Service and the emotions it evokes was missing. I am using the same illustrator and she is hoping to have it ready and available for Anzac Day next yesr!