Dorothea Mackellar Poetry Competition

[Vic Jefferies]

Just read in the local paper that the Dorothea MacKellar Poetry Competition attracted more than 8,500 entries from more than 600 schools! Something is happening at last.

[Maureen K Clifford]

That's great isn't it - The Ipswich Poetry Feast this year also attracted more entries I believe from kids than from Adults. So as you say - something is happening

[Heather]

I have a feeling that that competition attracted a lot of entries last year too Vic. I recall reading some of them and there was some great talent there.

Heather

[manfredvijars]

... yep!! Just under 400 performances at the Junior Swaggies in Winton last week ...

(UP 100 from last year)

[Shelley Hansen]

Today I returned to my former workplace to farewell a long-time colleague. While I was there one of the men told me last night his 10 year old son said "Come out on the verandah Dad, I've got something I want to show you." So they did, and the boy proceeded to recite The Man From Ironbark word perfect - and apparently full of expression and different voices. He'd been learning it on his own because he simply loves poetry (fostered by his parents, of course!)

This is the same kid I told you about last year, Mannie - who recited at the breakfast table a poem he'd written the night before (he was 9 then). I've heard the poem and it is excellent - with correct understanding of rhyme and metre. I also have a copy of an essay he has written about the Eureka Stockade and it's outstanding for his age.

So it looks like the future of Aussie Bush Poetry is safe - if we can perpetuate the passion of kids who are showing an interest.

Cheers, Shelley

[Bob Pacey]

it always was. Us young fellas will keep the tradition going.

Bobbie

[Zondrae]

G'day Vic and everyone,

Great to see this happening. I am the co-ordinator of the written poetry at the Kangaroo Valley Folk Festival and I have emailed the information and reminders to all the schools, junior and senior, the area. I have been contacted by one principal, of the fourteen, who is enthusiastic and will be following up with entries. It only takes one teacher to pass on the baton. Makes the whole thing worthwhile.