These pieces published in the book will be accompanied by art work from local artists. The Society invites and looks forward to receiving contributions from children and adults.

All items must be for family reading and received by Friday, March 31 (with details below where to send entries).

If you’d like to polish your entry before submitting it, Heather Kerr is offering just such a workshop.

Her workshop, ‘Polish Your Poetry’, will be limited between six and 10 participants. It will be suitable for anyone aged 12 or older.

The workshop will run over three Sundays, 9am-1pm (three hours), on March 5, 12 and 19.

Kerr has successfully taught poetry and short story writing to students aged 15 to late 70s, in trade, night class and degree courses, from apprentices to academic students and retirees, over many years.

“Just as anyone can improve their sports performance with coaching, practise and technique, anyone can learn the secrets of good poetry,” Kerr said.

“Playing with these simple techniques is fun and very satisfying, which is why the best poets always polish their work.”

Included in the course is frequent one-on-one help.

Cost is $15 per hour per adult, $10 for students and seniors. 

To secure a place, email heatherk1@iinet.net.au or call 4832 2349.

Mary Gilmore was born at Mary Vale, Woodhouselee, in 1865. She became a teacher and a writer and was editor of the women's pages of the Australian Worker newspaper for 23 years. 

In 1937 she was made Dame Mary Gilmore by King George VI. A suburb of Canberra is named after her and her picture is on the Australian $10 note and on Australian stamps.