Book lovers are in for a treat with author Fiona McArthur set to appear through an online event in collaboration with the Macquarie Regional Library Dubbo branch.
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The event will be an opportunity for Dubbo creatives and fans of Mrs McArthur to rejoice in conversation about her latest book, The Bush Telegraph, a fictional romance novel.
Mrs McArthur says she's looking forward to engaging with the audience in Dubbo.
Q: Can you tell about yourself, where you grew up and how you ended up becoming an author?
A: I grew up in several rural areas outside of busy Sydney; a five acre lot, a tiny village in a secluded bay (near a national park), and later on a farm on the mid north coast. I've been writing since my kids (five sons) were little, but it took me 10 years to actually finish- as opposed to lots of beginnings - a book. Though, thankfully I sold that first full novel and have been finishing books since 1999. I was also a rural midwife and registered nurse and my husband was a wonderful country paramedic. So, writing books with medical drama in rural and remote areas is my happy place.
Q: What can people expect from the online event?
A: I'm so looking forward to our virtual event. From our farm to your library. I'd love to share my joy in the world of writing, you can see me and ask questions about The Bush Telegraph, my life and writing, and choose any questions about getting your own writing out there if that's your dream - if I know the answer I'll share it. 'Cause that's my happy place too.
Q: Where did the inspiration come from for The Bush Telegraph storyline?
A: All those books I didn't finish, well I wasn't writing about women and babies. Suddenly, when I poured my passion for midwifery into my story, I could finish a book and it found a home. Straight away. And every book since.
There was a lesson there and I went from midwife to author - though for many years I had the best of both worlds.
Q: Have you been to Dubbo before, if so, what was your experience here like?
A: My husband and youngest son spent three days there with a school rugby union event and they loved the big country town feel of Dubbo.
Sadly, I've only driven through your wide streets and popped into the Flying Doctor Centre, but we will return one day for an extended stay. There is so much to see and experience.
Q: Can you tell us a bit about the storyline of The Bush Telegraph?
The Bush Telegraph is Maddy's (the main character) coming home story and a salute to the amazing service health workers in the remote setting provide.
I guess I'm proud to be Australian and love to portray the splendour of the landscape as well as the dangers. I'm inspired by true stories of ordinary people doing extraordinary things.
People who work to raise awareness of social issues, townsfolk pulling together in times of crisis, stoicism and resilience in the face of adversity. All the things you see on TV on Australian Story. And kindness. I'm always inspired by human kindness.
Q: Is there anything you hope readers can take from the story?
A: I want my readers to finish The Bush Telegraph with a big smile and a sigh.
To be reassured that though times can be tough, we are blessed by the intrinsic resilience of the Australian spirit and live in a beautiful part of the world with amazing possibilities.
Mrs McArthur said she is looking forward to the event and is 'waving to the Dubbo community' as we speak.
The event will be held via Zoom on Wednesday, September 2, from 7:00pm to 7:30pm.
Bookings are required to attend and can be made by calling the Macquarie Regional Library.
- Do you have something to say? We welcome your letters which may run in print and online.
Taylor Dodge
Your story matters, your voice deserves to be heard and I would love to help you share it. I have five years of experience as a Journalist with Australian Community Media covering an array of topics, with a key focus on breaking news and crime and a passion for people. E: taylor.dodge@austcommunitymedia.com.au.
Your story matters, your voice deserves to be heard and I would love to help you share it. I have five years of experience as a Journalist with Australian Community Media covering an array of topics, with a key focus on breaking news and crime and a passion for people. E: taylor.dodge@austcommunitymedia.com.au.
