HNSA Colleen McCullough Residency 2019
When I first saw the Historical Novel Society Australasia (HNSA) announcement of their inaugural Colleen McCullough Residency, I was blown away by the generosity of the prize and the amazing opportunity open to all eligible attendees at the 2019 HNSA Conference in Sydney last weekend.
Who wouldn’t want to spend a week on the beautiful Norfolk Island, once home and inspiration to one of our country’s most acclaimed writers? Plus airfares, transfers, hire car, tours of both the Colleen McCullough library and the island, supplied by the generous sponsors, along with the incredible bonus of staying and writing on the grounds of the McCullough estate!
I am so thrilled and excited to have been awarded the inaugural HNSA Colleen McCullough Residency for an Established Writer. AND I GET TO GO TO NORFOLK ISLAND IN FEBRUARY!!!
When the final judge of the residency shortlists, best-selling author, Nicole Alexander, began to read out a couple of telling details from the winning established author submission, ie: set in France, post-WW1 etc, my heart just about stopped beating. And when she read out my name, I really couldn’t believe it. But, eventually, I did manage to collect myself and my certificate from Nicole, and utter a few inarticulate words.
It’s taken a few days to sink in, though never the fact what an amazing opportunity I’ve been given. It’s also incredibly validating to know that the choices I made a few months ago to start my novel at a different point in the story have worked. I’m so excited about my WIP, but I won’t go into any details about the project here at this early stage of the writing.
Congratulations to Sally Colin James, winner of the aspiring category. We’ve already planned to get together at the end of the writing day and debrief, perhaps share a meal and a sunset.
No doubt, come February, this blog will feature some beautiful photos set amid the inspiration of Norfolk Island, a place I’ve always, always wanted to visit. I only wish Colleen McCullough was still in residence, per chance I could meet her. Hopefully some more of her magic will rub off on me.
My grateful thanks to HNSA, Nicole Alexander, Burnt Pine Travel, Baunti Escapes and the McCullough Estate for the opportunity, their support and sponsorship.
From Hook to Book 
I’m so wrapped for you, Chris. This is going to be a wonderful, unforgettable opportunity. So proud of you!!
Thank you so much, Matt, for all your enthusiasm and support. Don’t know what I’d do without my writing groups to cheer me on in the tough times and cheer for me in the exciting times. 🙂
So very exciting Chris, but mostly so well-deserved. You’ve waited in the wings and it’s paid off. Warmest congratulations and love. Corinne x
Thank you so much, my dear friend, for your lovely words and congratulations. It really is all about keeping on writing, reading and putting your work out there. xx Chris
I am so thrilled for you Chris, but totally not surprised. You are an amazing talent and deserving of all the accolades. I can’t wait to hear more about it when I see you next.
Thank you, Leisl, for your lovely words and all your support. I can’t wait to tell you all about it. 🙂
What wonderful news and so well deserved. Warmest congratulations to you, Chris.
Thank you so much, Fran. I am still pinching myself and utterly thrilled. x
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