Near-death encounters, coffee shop friendships, and the discovery of “perfect strangers” are among the lived experiences documented in short stories crafted by 100 NSW seniors in Volume 12 of Seniors’ Stories.
The Minns Labor Government today launched the initiative in partnership with the Fellowship of Australian Writers NSW Inc at the NSW State Library.
This year authors crafted short stories consistent with the theme of Neighbours, Strangers, and the People in Between.
One example, titled Unforgettable, by this year’s oldest author June Colin-Thome, 90, reflected on the moment she almost drowned on the beach before a stranger rescued her.
“After coughing and gagging the salt water out of my lungs, I walked to the water to thank the man who helped me, but he disappeared. Sometimes, the people we mistrust are fortuitously helpful,” June wrote.
Meanwhile, 79-year-old author Richard Kuipers explored the role of coffee shops in bringing people together in his story titled The Coffee Shop: So Much More Than Just Coffee.
“So, whilst the coffee we buy is expensive and on paper, it makes no sense at all, I look around at the conversations, the laughter and the gentle support and I realise we are not just paying for coffee. We are investing in our friendships…” Richard wrote.
In recognition of the cultural diversity of seniors across the state, several stories were translated to the native languages of authors including Italian, Sindhi, Polish, Sinhalese, and German.
The Fellowship of Australian Writers NSW Inc delivered short story writing workshops to assist seniors to develop writing skills, explore new techniques and exchange ideas.
Since launching in 2013, Seniors’ Stories has captured 1,200 short stories to showcase the creative writing skills and life experiences of older people in NSW.
Printed copies of Seniors’ Stories will be distributed to participating authors, NSW libraries, state electorate offices, and upcoming Seniors Card events.
A digital version of Seniors’ Stories and audiobook will also be available on the NSW Seniors Card website.
Minister for Seniors Jodie Harrison said:
“Older people across the state have so many fascinating stories to share and we all benefit from their insights.
“Seniors’ Stories ties all these stories together and leaves a lasting record for future generations to reflect and learn.
“Congratulations to all 100 authors for investing your time and skill into delivering this precious book which celebrates the lived experiences of older people.”
State President of the Fellowship of Australian Writers Inc Colleen Parker said:
“The relationship between the Department of Communities and Justice, NSW Seniors Card, and The Fellowship of Australian Writers NSW Inc, through the Seniors’ Stories Volumes, has spanned nearly a decade.
“The concept was willingly embraced by New South Wales Seniors who submitted a total of 1,200 personal stories for publication throughout the years.”
