A Sense of Place: Stories about Community and Belonging

The ten short stories in this collection offer a glimpse into the everyday life of an Australian regional town and its people. The people who, in many ways, bring life and vibrancy into the essence of their town. As you meet the people in "Sense of Place', you'll be drawn into some of the lives and daily interactions that could reflect life and living in almost any regional town in Australia. You'll see the town coming to life before sunrise, then read how members of the community work together to hold their annual Show. The enjoyment the community has in celebrating their artists, their talent and their achievements is apparent in the lead up to and the opening of its art exhibition. From the most personal of moments, when a long-held dream comes to fruition under a full moon, to reflections of past times and events at the special place that has been part of a family for generations, you'll gain a deeper insight into the humour that shines within us all. And when the community gathers to mourn one of their own, you'll feel the care and affection shown to the man who, while being no-one's, belonged to them all. The pandemic years have resulted in many people searching for their sense of place, their feeling of community and belonging. These stories are not from just one place. They have been inspired by living and working in many communities over many years. And maybe, just maybe, the sense of place, that feeling of community and belonging is actually right there, around all of us, right now. With best wishes, Nerelie.