Welcome!

Hi. I’m an author based in Fremantle, Western Australia, whose tales for middle readers blend adventure and mystery with lots of laughs. They also explore grittier themes like compassion and cherishing our natural environment. The Australian Book Review has described my style as ‘smart, funny and insightful’ — jolly nice of them! I’ve a PhD in Creative Writing and love exploring the wonders of words and imagination. Aside from writing fiction, I edit, review and give presentations. Browse here to learn more about my books, workshops and how to reach me; also to access teaching notes, games and tips for kick-starting your writing. All the best!

What’s the scoop?

• For a while now, I’ve been head-down on a novel for older/YA readers. In late October, the project took me to the wild, breathtaking southern coast of the state. Huge thanks to the Western Australian Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries for its belief and generous financial support.
• Am rapt that a poem of mine, YOU ARE HERE, will be part of the forthcoming poetry collection ‘Right Way Down’. For 9 to 12 year olds, it’s a joint publication from Alphabet Soup and Fremantle Press. With bags of illustrations by local genius, Briony Stewart, it’s scheduled to hit the shelves in March 2024!
• Another film deal! Best news ever for my beloved Riddle Gully books! Everything crossed that Chloe Gardner of KIDS CAMERA ACTION can bring Pollo di Nozi, Will and Shorn Connery to the screen one day. Chloe, as well as producing films and running KCA, founded the Adelaide International Youth Film Festival.
• The 2018 Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival was an amazing experience (and where I met Chloe Gardner!) The value placed on culture and education in the emirate shone from the many beautiful museums, mosques, souks, schools, archaeological sites and parks and pathways by peaceful lagoons.

Young readers maintain their secret identities with the first Riddle Gully Secrets installment in The West Australian newspaper.