This Creative Industry Night was on Monday 29th August , at Sydney's famous ArtHouse Hotel. Our 7th Industry Night was 'specially focussed on writers and their role in the creative development process of many other art forms, such as film and theatre. What a success! With over 50 people (writers, actors and filmmakers) filling the Attic Bar, the buzz was fantastic.

Our very special guest for the evening, was Peter Bishop, mentor to emerging and experienced writers as the Executive Director of Varuna, The Writers' House. Peter is a special man: quietly spoken and intensely passionate about writing and writers. And his enthusiasm was infectious to say the least.

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Creative Industry
Night #7

He talked about the writing and creative processes, and how to maintain our focus when writing. In discussion with merelyplayers' Artistic Director, Bryan Cutts, Peter's message was simple... "keep on writing... do it because you love it". Perhaps the words Peter offered which were most poignant were... "Do it for yourself, don't write for other people."

Certainly the warmth of the applause was testament to Peter's energy, enthusiasm and obvious care for all writers and their work.

We also showcased of some short performances - readings of some original works by several talented writers...

Jane Barton (pictured left) , who read from her short story, 'Air Supply', which was part of a collection of short stories "Quiet Impressions of a Limousines" completed whilst on retreat at Varuna Writers Centre a few years ago.This story is an attempt to consciously recall and record the first time Jane ever had contact with Aborigines, as a 12 year old. Part of Jane's "work" as a white Australian has been to become aware of the first contact her family had historically with Indigenous people.

Then, journalist and writer Sue Cartledge (right) presented us with an excerpt from her latest short story , which is already metamorphosisng into another novel! Plus two poems on a similar theme.

Our next guest performer was Jody Ekert (pictured left), writer and comedian - presenting her original work 'Temping: Pimped for the Corporate Cause' - a lighthearted look at the temping industry and her experiences. It's an awful experience that most creative types can relate too in their periods of unemployment!

Anne O'Connor (pictured right) wrapped up our showcase. Her short story 'Best Years of Our Lives' is a tale from late seventies Dublin, where a place at one of the city's most prestigious Catholic Girls Schools is guaranteed by what your Da does for a living then scoring highly in the pseudo entrance exam.

As with all our past Creative Industry Nights, it was an exciting night of entertainment and gentle networking. Our aim is to create an atmosphere where artists of all descriptions can meet each other and perhaps, cross-pollinate ideas.