Centre for Stories: Recent Episodes
Centre for Stories
Centre for Stories is a vibrant, inclusive literary arts and cultural organisation based in Perth, Western Australia. We use storytelling to inspire social cohesion and improve understanding of diverse communities. We cultivate stories that inspire thought, spark empathy and challenge intolerance, with a focus on empowering people whose experiences and perspectives are often marginalised.
Ellen Quach is a Perth-born storyteller of Vietnamese Chinese descent. Cavorting as a mother of two, and corporate team lead by day, and artist by night, her recent memoir work has been featured in several published anthologies. She finds mindfulness in poetry, painting and journalling, which has been fundamental in her recent healing journey.Ellen shares her journey from receiving a life-changing diagnosis, and finding solace and healing in places beyond her body.ABOUT THE COLLECTION:Swanbourne Story Tracks is a collection sharing community stories of personal connections to the areas between Freshwater Bay, Lake Claremont, and the Indian Ocean. These stories were produced in partnership and made possible by generous funding from Town Team Movement and Project Mooro. Storytellers participated in a series of workshops where they worked with our specialist story trainer, Colin Archibald, to craft first-person narratives about their memorable experiences living in this neighbourhood or moments collected while passing through these streets in their lives.In this collection, you will hear live recordings from five unique voices sharing personal stories of connection to place and community.This story and corresponding images are owned by the storyteller and have been licensed to the Centre for Stories. For reproduction and distribution of this story/image please contact the Centre for Stories.To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.This episode was narrated and produced by Vuma Phiri from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Mason Vellios
This is Liz ReedABOUT THE COLLECTION:Funded by the City of Armadale, Humans of Armadale is the third series of podcasts about Community Volunteers in the Humans of Armadale series showcasing the diversity of City of Armadale residents. Exploring why they choose to volunteer in their local community, the participants engaged in interviews with Jacqueline Kelly, sharing their love for the City of Armadale and all that it has to offer for volunteers.In this collection, you will hear stories from 22 City of Armadale residents sharing stories that reflect our state’s rich heritage, diversity and history.This story and corresponding images are owned by the storyteller and have been licensed to the Centre for Stories. For reproduction and distribution of this story/image please contact the Centre for Stories.To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.This episode was narrated and produced by Vuma Phiri from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Mason Vellios
This is Ken BrownABOUT THE COLLECTION:Funded by the City of Armadale, Humans of Armadale is the third series of podcasts about Community Volunteers in the Humans of Armadale series showcasing the diversity of City of Armadale residents. Exploring why they choose to volunteer in their local community, the participants engaged in interviews with Jacqueline Kelly, sharing their love for the City of Armadale and all that it has to offer for volunteers.In this collection, you will hear stories from 22 City of Armadale residents sharing stories that reflect our state’s rich heritage, diversity and history.This story and corresponding images are owned by the storyteller and have been licensed to the Centre for Stories. For reproduction and distribution of this story/image please contact the Centre for Stories.To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.This episode was narrated and produced by Vuma Phiri from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Mason Vellios
This is Patricia MerrittABOUT THE COLLECTION:Funded by the City of Armadale, Humans of Armadale is the third series of podcasts about Community Volunteers in the Humans of Armadale series showcasing the diversity of City of Armadale residents. Exploring why they choose to volunteer in their local community, the participants engaged in interviews with Jacqueline Kelly, sharing their love for the City of Armadale and all that it has to offer for volunteers.In this collection, you will hear stories from 22 City of Armadale residents sharing stories that reflect our state’s rich heritage, diversity and history.This story and corresponding images are owned by the storyteller and have been licensed to the Centre for Stories. For reproduction and distribution of this story/image please contact the Centre for Stories.To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.This episode was narrated and produced by Vuma Phiri from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Mason Vellios
This is June CopelyABOUT THE COLLECTION:Funded by the City of Armadale, Humans of Armadale is the third series of podcasts about Community Volunteers in the Humans of Armadale series showcasing the diversity of City of Armadale residents. Exploring why they choose to volunteer in their local community, the participants engaged in interviews with Jacqueline Kelly, sharing their love for the City of Armadale and all that it has to offer for volunteers.In this collection, you will hear stories from 22 City of Armadale residents sharing stories that reflect our state’s rich heritage, diversity and history.This story and corresponding images are owned by the storyteller and have been licensed to the Centre for Stories. For reproduction and distribution of this story/image please contact the Centre for Stories.To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.This episode was narrated and produced by Vuma Phiri from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Mason Vellios
This is Jeffery GreenABOUT THE COLLECTION:Funded by the City of Armadale, Humans of Armadale is the third series of podcasts about Community Volunteers in the Humans of Armadale series showcasing the diversity of City of Armadale residents. Exploring why they choose to volunteer in their local community, the participants engaged in interviews with Jacqueline Kelly, sharing their love for the City of Armadale and all that it has to offer for volunteers.In this collection, you will hear stories from 22 City of Armadale residents sharing stories that reflect our state’s rich heritage, diversity and history.This story and corresponding images are owned by the storyteller and have been licensed to the Centre for Stories. For reproduction and distribution of this story/image please contact the Centre for Stories.To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.This episode was narrated and produced by Vuma Phiri from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Mason Vellios
Lakshmi Kanchi is an emerging, prize-winning Indian Australian poet and storyteller on a mission—to make poetry accessible. She is the author of “Lakesong”, her debut poetry collection, published by Centre for Stories, and has been published in several journals and anthologies.Lakshmi shares how her life began again while sitting and writing by the stained glass windows of the beloved Heritage House in Swanbourne.ABOUT THE COLLECTION:Swanbourne Story Tracks is a collection sharing community stories of personal connections to the areas between Freshwater Bay, Lake Claremont, and the Indian Ocean. These stories were produced in partnership and made possible by generous funding from Town Team Movement and Project Mooro. Storytellers participated in a series of workshops where they worked with our specialist story trainer, Colin Archibald, to craft first-person narratives about their memorable experiences living in this neighbourhood or moments collected while passing through these streets in their lives.In this collection, you will hear live recordings from five unique voices sharing personal stories of connection to place and community.This story and corresponding images are owned by the storyteller and have been licensed to the Centre for Stories. For reproduction and distribution of this story/image please contact the Centre for Stories.To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.This episode was narrated and produced by Vuma Phiri from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Mason Vellios
This is Indrani GunarathnaABOUT THE COLLECTION:Funded by the City of Armadale, Humans of Armadale is the third series of podcasts about Community Volunteers in the Humans of Armadale series showcasing the diversity of City of Armadale residents. Exploring why they choose to volunteer in their local community, the participants engaged in interviews with Jacqueline Kelly, sharing their love for the City of Armadale and all that it has to offer for volunteers.In this collection, you will hear stories from 22 City of Armadale residents sharing stories that reflect our state’s rich heritage, diversity and history.This story and corresponding images are owned by the storyteller and have been licensed to the Centre for Stories. For reproduction and distribution of this story/image please contact the Centre for Stories.To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.This episode was narrated and produced by Vuma Phiri from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Mason Vellios
This is Ted WattsABOUT THE COLLECTION:Funded by the City of Armadale, Humans of Armadale is the third series of podcasts about Community Volunteers in the Humans of Armadale series showcasing the diversity of City of Armadale residents. Exploring why they choose to volunteer in their local community, the participants engaged in interviews with Jacqueline Kelly, sharing their love for the City of Armadale and all that it has to offer for volunteers.In this collection, you will hear stories from 22 City of Armadale residents sharing stories that reflect our state’s rich heritage, diversity and history.This story and corresponding images are owned by the storyteller and have been licensed to the Centre for Stories. For reproduction and distribution of this story/image please contact the Centre for Stories.To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.This episode was narrated and produced by Vuma Phiri from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Mason Vellios
This is Nicole CampbellABOUT THE COLLECTION:Funded by the City of Armadale, Humans of Armadale is the third series of podcasts about Community Volunteers in the Humans of Armadale series showcasing the diversity of City of Armadale residents. Exploring why they choose to volunteer in their local community, the participants engaged in interviews with Jacqueline Kelly, sharing their love for the City of Armadale and all that it has to offer for volunteers.In this collection, you will hear stories from 22 City of Armadale residents sharing stories that reflect our state’s rich heritage, diversity and history.This story and corresponding images are owned by the storyteller and have been licensed to the Centre for Stories. For reproduction and distribution of this story/image please contact the Centre for Stories.To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.This episode was narrated and produced by Vuma Phiri from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Mason Vellios
This is Diane SmithABOUT THE COLLECTION:Funded by the City of Armadale, Humans of Armadale is the third series of podcasts about Community Volunteers in the Humans of Armadale series showcasing the diversity of City of Armadale residents. Exploring why they choose to volunteer in their local community, the participants engaged in interviews with Jacqueline Kelly, sharing their love for the City of Armadale and all that it has to offer for volunteers.In this collection, you will hear stories from 22 City of Armadale residents sharing stories that reflect our state’s rich heritage, diversity and history.This story and corresponding images are owned by the storyteller and have been licensed to the Centre for Stories. For reproduction and distribution of this story/image please contact the Centre for Stories.To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.This episode was narrated and produced by Vuma Phiri from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Mason Vellios
This is Darryl DawesABOUT THE COLLECTION:Funded by the City of Armadale, Humans of Armadale is the third series of podcasts about Community Volunteers in the Humans of Armadale series showcasing the diversity of City of Armadale residents. Exploring why they choose to volunteer in their local community, the participants engaged in interviews with Jacqueline Kelly, sharing their love for the City of Armadale and all that it has to offer for volunteers.In this collection, you will hear stories from 22 City of Armadale residents sharing stories that reflect our state’s rich heritage, diversity and history.This story and corresponding images are owned by the storyteller and have been licensed to the Centre for Stories. For reproduction and distribution of this story/image please contact the Centre for Stories.To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.This episode was narrated and produced by Vuma Phiri from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Mason Vellios
Juliana Areais is an award-winning Brazilian Jazz singer-songwriter, dubbed the Bossa Nova Baby, whose captivating voice and rhythms have graced the Sydney Opera House and global jazz festivals. Juliana’s music blends smooth jazz with the vibrant soul of Brazil. Juliana is the creator of the “Sunset Songs at North Cottesloe”.For Juliana, music is a vital way to connect with others, no matter where she resides. Here, she takes us to 2021, under the Cottesloe sunsets, where Brazilian Bossa Nova music provided life changing connections.Content warning: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people should be aware that this story includes references to, and the name of a person who is now deceased.ABOUT THE COLLECTION:Swanbourne Story Tracks is a collection sharing community stories of personal connections to the areas between Freshwater Bay, Lake Claremont, and the Indian Ocean. These stories were produced in partnership and made possible by generous funding from Town Team Movement and Project Mooro. Storytellers participated in a series of workshops where they worked with our specialist story trainer, Colin Archibald, to craft first-person narratives about their memorable experiences living in this neighbourhood or moments collected while passing through these streets in their lives.In this collection, you will hear live recordings from five unique voices sharing personal stories of connection to place and community.This story and corresponding images are owned by the storyteller and have been licensed to the Centre for Stories. For reproduction and distribution of this story/image please contact the Centre for Stories.To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.This episode was narrated and produced by Vuma Phiri from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Mason Vellios
This is Darryl BedfordABOUT THE COLLECTION:Funded by the City of Armadale, Humans of Armadale is the third series of podcasts about Community Volunteers in the Humans of Armadale series showcasing the diversity of City of Armadale residents. Exploring why they choose to volunteer in their local community, the participants engaged in interviews with Jacqueline Kelly, sharing their love for the City of Armadale and all that it has to offer for volunteers.In this collection, you will hear stories from 22 City of Armadale residents sharing stories that reflect our state’s rich heritage, diversity and history.This story and corresponding images are owned by the storyteller and have been licensed to the Centre for Stories. For reproduction and distribution of this story/image please contact the Centre for Stories.To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.This episode was narrated and produced by Vuma Phiri from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Mason Vellios
This is Veronica HansenABOUT THE COLLECTION:Funded by the City of Armadale, Humans of Armadale is the third series of podcasts about Community Volunteers in the Humans of Armadale series showcasing the diversity of City of Armadale residents. Exploring why they choose to volunteer in their local community, the participants engaged in interviews with Jacqueline Kelly, sharing their love for the City of Armadale and all that it has to offer for volunteers.In this collection, you will hear stories from 22 City of Armadale residents sharing stories that reflect our state’s rich heritage, diversity and history.This story and corresponding images are owned by the storyteller and have been licensed to the Centre for Stories. For reproduction and distribution of this story/image please contact the Centre for Stories.To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.This episode was narrated and produced by Vuma Phiri from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Mason Vellios
This is Michelle ZoumisABOUT THE COLLECTION:Funded by the City of Armadale, Humans of Armadale is the third series of podcasts about Community Volunteers in the Humans of Armadale series showcasing the diversity of City of Armadale residents. Exploring why they choose to volunteer in their local community, the participants engaged in interviews with Jacqueline Kelly, sharing their love for the City of Armadale and all that it has to offer for volunteers.In this collection, you will hear stories from 22 City of Armadale residents sharing stories that reflect our state’s rich heritage, diversity and history.This story and corresponding images are owned by the storyteller and have been licensed to the Centre for Stories. For reproduction and distribution of this story/image please contact the Centre for Stories.To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.This episode was narrated and produced by Vuma Phiri from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Mason Vellios
This is Colleen FancoteABOUT THE COLLECTION:Funded by the City of Armadale, Humans of Armadale is the third series of podcasts about Community Volunteers in the Humans of Armadale series showcasing the diversity of City of Armadale residents. Exploring why they choose to volunteer in their local community, the participants engaged in interviews with Jacqueline Kelly, sharing their love for the City of Armadale and all that it has to offer for volunteers.In this collection, you will hear stories from 22 City of Armadale residents sharing stories that reflect our state’s rich heritage, diversity and history.This story and corresponding images are owned by the storyteller and have been licensed to the Centre for Stories. For reproduction and distribution of this story/image please contact the Centre for Stories.To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.This episode was narrated and produced by Vuma Phiri from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Mason Vellios
This is Corrina SmartABOUT THE COLLECTION:Funded by the City of Armadale, Humans of Armadale is the third series of podcasts about Community Volunteers in the Humans of Armadale series showcasing the diversity of City of Armadale residents. Exploring why they choose to volunteer in their local community, the participants engaged in interviews with Jacqueline Kelly, sharing their love for the City of Armadale and all that it has to offer for volunteers.In this collection, you will hear stories from 22 City of Armadale residents sharing stories that reflect our state’s rich heritage, diversity and history.This story and corresponding images are owned by the storyteller and have been licensed to the Centre for Stories. For reproduction and distribution of this story/image please contact the Centre for Stories.To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.This episode was narrated and produced by Vuma Phiri from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Mason Vellios
Jean Perkins is a quite tired Cott mum of two, who tries to swim more days than not and likes to chase extraordinary sunsets. After being hit by some major life hurdles, she got sick of being stoic and decided to help push a positive campaign for a local skate park.In Jean’s story, she embraces the changes that life threw her way. This leads her to a local skate park in Cottesloe – a skate park that gathered the whole community. Content warning: This story contains mentions of suicidal ideation. We acknowledge the importance of sharing honest stories but do recognise that some moments may be difficult to hear. So, if you’re struggling while listening to this story, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14, Or type lifeline into your internet browser and explore their resources on the website.ABOUT THE COLLECTION:Swanbourne Story Tracks is a collection sharing community stories of personal connections to the areas between Freshwater Bay, Lake Claremont, and the Indian Ocean. These stories were produced in partnership and made possible by generous funding from Town Team Movement and Project Mooro. Storytellers participated in a series of workshops where they worked with our specialist story trainer, Colin Archibald, to craft first-person narratives about their memorable experiences living in this neighbourhood or moments collected while passing through these streets in their lives.In this collection, you will hear live recordings from five unique voices sharing personal stories of connection to place and community.This story and corresponding images are owned by the storyteller and have been licensed to the Centre for Stories. For reproduction and distribution of this story/image please contact the Centre for Stories.To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.This episode was narrated and produced by Vuma Phiri from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Mason Vellios
This is Uncle Albert McNamaraABOUT THE COLLECTION:Funded by the City of Armadale, Humans of Armadale is the third series of podcasts about Community Volunteers in the Humans of Armadale series showcasing the diversity of City of Armadale residents. Exploring why they choose to volunteer in their local community, the participants engaged in interviews with Jacqueline Kelly, sharing their love for the City of Armadale and all that it has to offer for volunteers.In this collection, you will hear stories from 22 City of Armadale residents sharing stories that reflect our state’s rich heritage, diversity and history.This story and corresponding images are owned by the storyteller and have been licensed to the Centre for Stories. For reproduction and distribution of this story/image please contact the Centre for Stories.To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.This episode was narrated and produced by Vuma Phiri from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Mason Vellios
This is Uncle Rod CatonABOUT THE COLLECTION:Funded by the City of Armadale, Humans of Armadale is the third series of podcasts about Community Volunteers in the Humans of Armadale series showcasing the diversity of City of Armadale residents. Exploring why they choose to volunteer in their local community, the participants engaged in interviews with Jacqueline Kelly, sharing their love for the City of Armadale and all that it has to offer for volunteers.In this collection, you will hear stories from 22 City of Armadale residents sharing stories that reflect our state’s rich heritage, diversity and history.This story and corresponding images are owned by the storyteller and have been licensed to the Centre for Stories. For reproduction and distribution of this story/image please contact the Centre for Stories.To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.This episode was narrated and produced by Vuma Phiri from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Mason Vellios
This is Matthew HursltonABOUT THE COLLECTION:Funded by the City of Armadale, Humans of Armadale is the third series of podcasts about Community Volunteers in the Humans of Armadale series showcasing the diversity of City of Armadale residents. Exploring why they choose to volunteer in their local community, the participants engaged in interviews with Jacqueline Kelly, sharing their love for the City of Armadale and all that it has to offer for volunteers.In this collection, you will hear stories from 22 City of Armadale residents sharing stories that reflect our state’s rich heritage, diversity and history.This story and corresponding images are owned by the storyteller and have been licensed to the Centre for Stories. For reproduction and distribution of this story/image please contact the Centre for Stories.To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.This episode was narrated and produced by Vuma Phiri from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Mason Vellios
This is Bernard CaunceABOUT THE COLLECTION:Funded by the City of Armadale, Humans of Armadale is the third series of podcasts about Community Volunteers in the Humans of Armadale series showcasing the diversity of City of Armadale residents. Exploring why they choose to volunteer in their local community, the participants engaged in interviews with Jacqueline Kelly, sharing their love for the City of Armadale and all that it has to offer for volunteers.In this collection, you will hear stories from 22 City of Armadale residents sharing stories that reflect our state’s rich heritage, diversity and history.This story and corresponding images are owned by the storyteller and have been licensed to the Centre for Stories. For reproduction and distribution of this story/image please contact the Centre for Stories.To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.This episode was narrated and produced by Vuma Phiri from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Mason Vellios
This is Aunty Irene McNamaraABOUT THE COLLECTION:Funded by the City of Armadale, Humans of Armadale is the third series of podcasts about Community Volunteers in the Humans of Armadale series showcasing the diversity of City of Armadale residents. Exploring why they choose to volunteer in their local community, the participants engaged in interviews with Jacqueline Kelly, sharing their love for the City of Armadale and all that it has to offer for volunteers.In this collection, you will hear stories from 22 City of Armadale residents sharing stories that reflect our state’s rich heritage, diversity and history.This story and corresponding images are owned by the storyteller and have been licensed to the Centre for Stories. For reproduction and distribution of this story/image please contact the Centre for Stories.To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.This episode was narrated and produced by Vuma Phiri from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Mason Vellios
Judith Huang is a Singaporean Australian author, poet and artist. Her novel, Sofia and the Utopia Machine, was shortlisted for the EBFP 2017 and Singapore Book Awards 2019. Her VR artwork Marcus and the Shadow showed at PICA in 2022. She is the co-founder of Chilli Jam Open Mic in Perth.Judith arrived in Perth in 2018, feeling disconnected from this land. Overtime, she journeyed around Lake Claremont and Cottesloe Beach, making connections with the people and landmarks she found in these places.Content warning: This story contains mentions of suicidal ideation. We acknowledge the importance of sharing honest stories but do recognise that some moments may be difficult to hear. So, if you’re struggling while listening to this story, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14, Or type lifeline into your internet browser and explore their resources on the website. ABOUT THE COLLECTION:Swanbourne Story Tracks is a collection sharing community stories of personal connections to the areas between Freshwater Bay, Lake Claremont, and the Indian Ocean. These stories were produced in partnership and made possible by generous funding from Town Team Movement and Project Mooro. Storytellers participated in a series of workshops where they worked with our specialist story trainer, Colin Archibald, to craft first-person narratives about their memorable experiences living in this neighbourhood or moments collected while passing through these streets in their lives.In this collection, you will hear live recordings from five unique voices sharing personal stories of connection to place and community.This story and corresponding images are owned by the storyteller and have been licensed to the Centre for Stories. For reproduction and distribution of this story/image please contact the Centre for Stories.To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.This episode was narrated and produced by Vuma Phiri from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Mason Vellios
Anamarija Mraz is an emerging writer and a graduate of the University of Western Australia. Anamarija writes Slavic fairytales, Australian fairytale retellings, migrant fables and fantasy stories.Anamarija’s journey starts with her grandmother and fairytales. Here, she shares how the white ibises of Stirling returned her to the storyteller she was always meant to be.ABOUT THE COLLECTION:City of Stirling Backstories at Perth Festival is a collection showcasing stories from members of the community in City of Stirling. These stories were produced in partnership and made possible by generous funding from City of Stirling and Perth Festival. Storytellers participated in a series of workshops where they worked with our specialist story trainer, Vuma Phiri, to craft first-person narratives about their memorable experiences living in this neighbourhood.In this collection, you will hear live recordings from five unique voices shared at an intimate Perth Festival event.This story and corresponding images are owned by the storyteller and have been licensed to the Centre for Stories. For reproduction and distribution of this story/image please contact the Centre for Stories.To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.This episode was narrated and produced by Vuma Phiri from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Mason Vellios
This is Melissa MarshallABOUT THE COLLECTION:Funded by the City of Armadale, Humans of Armadale is the third series of podcasts about Community Volunteers in the Humans of Armadale series showcasing the diversity of City of Armadale residents. Exploring why they choose to volunteer in their local community, the participants engaged in interviews with Jacqueline Kelly, sharing their love for the City of Armadale and all that it has to offer for volunteers.In this collection, you will hear stories from 22 City of Armadale residents sharing stories that reflect our state’s rich heritage, diversity and history.This story and corresponding images are owned by the storyteller and have been licensed to the Centre for Stories. For reproduction and distribution of this story/image please contact the Centre for Stories.To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.This episode was narrated and produced by Vuma Phiri from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Mason Vellios
Katie Pope is a lawyer, a mother and an aspiring storyteller from Boorloo/Perth. Her creative work has been published in places including TEXT, The Suburban Review and The Little Journal (forthcoming).Katie experienced a significant change in 2012 when she experienced unusual symptoms. Here, she speaks about the importance on starting conversations around complex mental health disorders, by sharing about her own.ABOUT THE COLLECTION:City of Stirling Backstories at Perth Festival is a collection showcasing stories from members of the community in City of Stirling. These stories were produced in partnership and made possible by generous funding from City of Stirling and Perth Festival. Storytellers participated in a series of workshops where they worked with our specialist story trainer, Vuma Phiri, to craft first-person narratives about their memorable experiences living in this neighbourhood.In this collection, you will hear live recordings from five unique voices shared at an intimate Perth Festival event.This story and corresponding images are owned by the storyteller and have been licensed to the Centre for Stories. For reproduction and distribution of this story/image please contact the Centre for Stories.To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.This episode was narrated and produced by Vuma Phiri from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Mason Vellios
Larissa Muir is the CEO of 12 Buckets, a local charity operating within the City of Stirling. She has over 15 years of experience in the not-for-profit sector.Growing up, Larissa felt like she was waiting to exit a long game of Snap. As an adult, this feeling continued to emerge, shaping how she views navigating life, relationships and challenges.ABOUT THE COLLECTION:City of Stirling Backstories at Perth Festival is a collection showcasing stories from members of the community in City of Stirling. These stories were produced in partnership and made possible by generous funding from City of Stirling and Perth Festival. Storytellers participated in a series of workshops where they worked with our specialist story trainer, Vuma Phiri, to craft first-person narratives about their memorable experiences living in this neighbourhood.In this collection, you will hear live recordings from five unique voices shared at an intimate Perth Festival event.This story and corresponding images are owned by the storyteller and have been licensed to the Centre for Stories. For reproduction and distribution of this story/image please contact the Centre for Stories.To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.This episode was narrated and produced by Vuma Phiri from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Mason Vellios
Min Sheen Tan is a UX designer, speaker and former food technologist with expertise in human-centered design. He has spoken at various events and functions. ABOUT THE COLLECTION:City of Stirling Backstories at Perth Festival is a collection showcasing stories from members of the community in City of Stirling. These stories were produced in partnership and made possible by generous funding from City of Stirling and Perth Festival. Storytellers participated in a series of workshops where they worked with our specialist story trainer, Vuma Phiri, to craft first-person narratives about their memorable experiences living in this neighbourhood.In this collection, you will hear live recordings from five unique voices shared at an intimate Perth Festival event.This story and corresponding images are owned by the storyteller and have been licensed to the Centre for Stories. For reproduction and distribution of this story/image please contact the Centre for Stories.To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.This episode was narrated and produced by Vuma Phiri from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Mason Vellios
Robyn Jean is a Noongar/Yamatji artist and photographer whose work explores cultural identity, resilience, and the healing power of nature. A Curtin University graduate, she creates layered imagery and collaborates on public art projects.ABOUT THE COLLECTION:City of Stirling Backstories at Perth Festival is a collection showcasing stories from members of the community in City of Stirling. These stories were produced in partnership and made possible by generous funding from City of Stirling and Perth Festival. Storytellers participated in a series of workshops where they worked with our specialist story trainer, Vuma Phiri, to craft first-person narratives about their memorable experiences living in this neighbourhood.In this collection, you will hear live recordings from five unique voices shared at an intimate Perth Festival event.This story and corresponding images are owned by the storyteller and have been licensed to the Centre for Stories. For reproduction and distribution of this story/image please contact the Centre for Stories.To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.This episode was narrated and produced by Vuma Phiri from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Mason Vellios
Casey Mulder is a Ballardong Noongar yorga with Dutch and English heritage. She works in a variety of education roles and is a freelance editor and writer. Casey shares how many cups of tea and an unusual friendship with an elderly couple in the Kimberley taught her the wisdom of creating safe spaces for Aboriginal stories to be told.Content Warning: These stories may include triggering content for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. So, if you’re struggling while listening to this story, please don’t hesitate to connect with 13 YARN on 13 92 76 and talk with an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander crisis supporter.ABOUT THE COLLECTION:Truth Telling in Walyalup is a collection of stories from Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians that were shared in local resident’s backyards all around Walyalup/Fremantle. The stories were reflections about Australia's shared colonial history and imagining a better future toward reconciliation. These stories were produced in partnership with and made possible by generous funding from the City of Fremantle. Find out more about their reconciliation journey and truth telling program at www.fremantle.wa.gov.au.In this collection, you will hear live recordings from people who spoke about difficult truths, hidden histories and reimagined futures, all reflections of their lived experiences of colonisation in Walyalup and beyond.To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.This episode was narrated and produced by Luisa Mitchell from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Cobie Mason.
Nyul Nyul and Nyikina man Jason Hunter shares his journey of learning about the true history of his family: stolen land, people massacred, children stolen, lives controlled. He encourages all listeners to understand this is our shared history and our shared responsibility to change Aboriginal Australia’s future.Content Warning: These stories may include triggering content for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. So, if you’re struggling while listening to this story, please don’t hesitate to connect with 13 YARN on 13 92 76 and talk with an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander crisis supporter.ABOUT THE COLLECTION:Truth Telling in Walyalup is a collection of stories from Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians that were shared in local resident’s backyards all around Walyalup/Fremantle. The stories were reflections about Australia's shared colonial history and imagining a better future toward reconciliation. These stories were produced in partnership with and made possible by generous funding from the City of Fremantle. Find out more about their reconciliation journey and truth telling program at www.fremantle.wa.gov.au.In this collection, you will hear live recordings from people who spoke about difficult truths, hidden histories and reimagined futures, all reflections of their lived experiences of colonisation in Walyalup and beyond.To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.This episode was narrated and produced by Luisa Mitchell from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Cobie Mason.
Phil O’Donoghue is the Media Officer for UnionsWA and was actively involved in volunteer coordination and training in WA for the YES23 campaign during the Voice Referendum. He shares his story of the failure of the Yes for the Voice referendum campaign and advocates for Australians to embrace uncomfortable conversations, political debate and get involved in grassroots activism.ABOUT THE COLLECTION:Truth Telling in Walyalup is a collection of stories from Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians that were shared in local resident’s backyards all around Walyalup/Fremantle. The stories were reflections about Australia's shared colonial history and imagining a better future toward reconciliation. These stories were produced in partnership with and made possible by generous funding from the City of Fremantle. Find out more about their reconciliation journey and truth telling program at www.fremantle.wa.gov.au.In this collection, you will hear live recordings from people who spoke about difficult truths, hidden histories and reimagined futures, all reflections of their lived experiences of colonisation in Walyalup and beyond.To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.This episode was narrated and produced by Luisa Mitchell from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Cobie Mason.
Holly Story migrated to Perth, Australia as a ‘ten-pound pom’. Her ideas about Australia included expansive red spaces, kangaroos and Aboriginal people living in the remote northern deserts. As she began to ask more questions about Aboriginal cultures, she was shocked to discover a systematic, forced erasure of Aboriginal people and a more nuanced, complex picture of Australian history.ABOUT THE COLLECTION:Truth Telling in Walyalup is a collection of stories from Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians that were shared in local resident’s backyards all around Walyalup/Fremantle. The stories were reflections about Australia's shared colonial history and imagining a better future toward reconciliation. These stories were produced in partnership with and made possible by generous funding from the City of Fremantle. Find out more about their reconciliation journey and truth telling program at www.fremantle.wa.gov.au.In this collection, you will hear live recordings from people who spoke about difficult truths, hidden histories and reimagined futures, all reflections of their lived experiences of colonisation in Walyalup and beyond.To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.This episode was narrated and produced by Luisa Mitchell from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Cobie Mason.
Abid Imam is a Sports Manager, Presenter, Podcaster & DJ. Born to Pakistani and Fijian parents, he always felt like the odd one out amongst his classmates and friends. He started to use a fake name to introduce himself: ‘Steve’. Here is Abid’s journey of learning to reclaim his true name and why he believes authenticity is an important aspect of building a relationship to boodjar/country.ABOUT THE COLLECTION:Truth Telling in Walyalup is a collection of stories from Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians that were shared in local resident’s backyards all around Walyalup/Fremantle. The stories were reflections about Australia's shared colonial history and imagining a better future toward reconciliation. These stories were produced in partnership with and made possible by generous funding from the City of Fremantle. Find out more about their reconciliation journey and truth telling program at www.fremantle.wa.gov.au.In this collection, you will hear live recordings from people who spoke about difficult truths, hidden histories and reimagined futures, all reflections of their lived experiences of colonisation in Walyalup and beyond.To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.This episode was narrated and produced by Luisa Mitchell from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Cobie Mason.
Trish Ratajczak was born and raised in Walyalup. She remembers a difficult childhood, with a hungry stomach and chaos that threatened to enter her bedroom. When she went in search of her biological father, she discovered she was Aboriginal. This is her journey of finding her mob.Content Warning: These stories may include triggering content for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. So, if you’re struggling while listening to this story, please don’t hesitate to connect with 13 YARN on 13 92 76 and talk with an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander crisis supporter.ABOUT THE COLLECTION:Truth Telling in Walyalup is a collection of stories from Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians that were shared in local resident’s backyards all around Walyalup/Fremantle. The stories were reflections about Australia's shared colonial history and imagining a better future toward reconciliation. These stories were produced in partnership with and made possible by generous funding from the City of Fremantle. Find out more about their reconciliation journey and truth telling program at www.fremantle.wa.gov.au.In this collection, you will hear live recordings from people who spoke about difficult truths, hidden histories and reimagined futures, all reflections of their lived experiences of colonisation in Walyalup and beyond.To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.This episode was narrated and produced by Luisa Mitchell from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Cobie Mason.
Nandi Chinna had no real understanding of Aboriginal people or our colonial history until she moved to Walyalup/Fremantle as a young woman. After reading books and listening to Noongar elders, she began to feel uneasy about her own place in Australia – could she ever live here without a guilty conscience? This is her journey to finding belonging while acknowledging Aboriginal sovereignty.Content Warning: These stories may include triggering content for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. So, if you’re struggling while listening to this story, please don’t hesitate to connect with 13 YARN on 13 92 76 and talk with an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander crisis supporter.ABOUT THE COLLECTION:Truth Telling in Walyalup is a collection of stories from Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians that were shared in local resident’s backyards all around Walyalup/Fremantle. The stories were reflections about Australia's shared colonial history and imagining a better future toward reconciliation. These stories were produced in partnership with and made possible by generous funding from the City of Fremantle. Find out more about their reconciliation journey and truth telling program at www.fremantle.wa.gov.au.In this collection, you will hear live recordings from people who spoke about difficult truths, hidden histories and reimagined futures, all reflections of their lived experiences of colonisation in Walyalup and beyond.To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.This episode was narrated and produced by Luisa Mitchell from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Cobie Mason.
In this story, Brendan shares his experience of training for the Rottnest Island Swim with an all-Aboriginal team while reflecting on Wadjemup’s (Rottnest Island) painful history.Content Warning: These stories may include triggering content for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. So, if you’re struggling while listening to this story, please don’t hesitate to connect with 13 YARN on 13 92 76 and talk with an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander crisis supporter.ABOUT THE COLLECTION:Truth Telling in Walyalup is a collection of stories from Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians that were shared in local resident’s backyards all around Walyalup/Fremantle. The stories were reflections about Australia's shared colonial history and imagining a better future toward reconciliation. These stories were produced in partnership with and made possible by generous funding from the City of Fremantle. Find out more about their reconciliation journey and truth telling program at www.fremantle.wa.gov.au.In this collection, you will hear live recordings from people who spoke about difficult truths, hidden histories and reimagined futures, all reflections of their lived experiences of colonisation in Walyalup and beyond.To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.This episode was narrated and produced by Luisa Mitchell from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Cobie Mason.
Story Hour is Centre for Stories' regular monthly podcast where we sift through our archives of recorded stories to bring you up to an hour of diverse, intriguing, and real experiences from (extra)ordinary people.This month's theme is SELF LOVE. Our storytellers share their personal experiences with self-love. They remind us that self-love is never simple, but it is always transformational. The journey to self-love is often made that much more difficult if you have experienced complex trauma, as many of us have. Examining the aspects of ourselves that we would prefer to hide, the events that have made us feel inadequate, and the memories we have been keeping to ourselves are all part of the process of self-love. Featuring storytellers Angel Lee, Jay Anderson and Kate Purcell.If you liked this episode, find out more about our stories and services at www.centreforstories.com.Sound engineering and original music from Mason Vellios. Narrated by Luisa Mitchell.
Vaughan Wayne is a Whadjuk Nyungar man with connections to Yued and Ballardong country. He reflects on a haunting childhood memory of a shag, or cormorant, covered in oil by the Derbarl Yerrigan/Swan River.ABOUT THE COLLECTION: Truth Telling in Walyalup is a collection of stories from Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians that were shared in local resident’s backyards all around Walyalup/Fremantle. The stories were reflections about Australia's shared colonial history and imagining a better future toward reconciliation. These stories were produced in partnership with and made possible by generous funding from the City of Fremantle. Find out more about their reconciliation journey and truth telling program at www.fremantle.wa.gov.au. To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com. This episode was narrated and produced by Luisa Mitchell from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Cobie Mason.
Mariela Espino Zuppa lives in Walyalup/Fremantle but is originally from Mexico. Her work aims to bridge divides—between ‘here’ and ‘there’, and ‘us’ and ‘them’—fostering curiosity, connection, and systems of reciprocal care. In this episode, she shares her journey emigrating to the USA and later, Australia. Her deep desire to find a place she could belong to, where she would finally be accepted, is confronted by Australia’s difficult past.ABOUT THE COLLECTION: Truth Telling in Walyalup is a collection of stories from Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians that were shared in local resident’s backyards all around Walyalup/Fremantle. The stories were reflections about Australia's shared colonial history and imagining a better future toward reconciliation. These stories were produced in partnership with and made possible by generous funding from the City of Fremantle. Find out more about their reconciliation journey and truth telling program at www.fremantle.wa.gov.au. To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com. This episode was narrated and produced by Luisa Mitchell from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Cobie Mason.
Bill Adlam was born at and grew up in Merredin, Western Australia. Merredin is situated on the land of the Njaki Njaki people… but Bill didn’t know this growing up. In this story, he shares his journey of discovering the dark history of his home town and that the past isn’t often so far away as we think it is.Content Warning: These stories may include triggering content for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. If you’re struggling while listening to this story, please don’t hesitate to connect with 13 YARN on 13 92 76 and talk with an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander crisis supporter. ABOUT THE COLLECTION: Truth Telling in Walyalup is a collection of stories from Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians that were shared in local resident’s backyards all around Walyalup/Fremantle. The stories were reflections about Australia's shared colonial history and imagining a better future toward reconciliation. These stories were produced in partnership with and made possible by generous funding from the City of Fremantle. Find out more about their reconciliation journey and truth telling program at www.fremantle.wa.gov.au. To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com. This episode was narrated and produced by Luisa Mitchell from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Cobie Mason.
In this episode, Gerrard Shaw, a Whadjuk Elder with connections to Yued and Ballardong country, reflects on the long journey Australia has been on toward truth telling, reflecting on key historical moments and his own experiences being impacted by the Stolen Generations.Content Warning: These stories may include triggering content for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. So, if you’re struggling while listening to this story, please don’t hesitate to connect with 13 YARN on 13 92 76 and talk with an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander crisis supporter. ABOUT THE COLLECTION:Truth Telling in Walyalup is a collection of stories from Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians that were shared in local resident’s backyards all around Walyalup/Fremantle. The stories were reflections about Australia's shared colonial history and imagining a better future toward reconciliation. These stories were produced in partnership with and made possible by generous funding from the City of Fremantle. Find out more about their reconciliation journey and truth telling program at www.fremantle.wa.gov.au.In this collection, you will hear live recordings from people who spoke about difficult truths, hidden histories and reimagined futures, all reflections of their lived experiences of colonisation in Walyalup and beyond. To support Centre for Stories in helping more important truths to be told and share, please consider donating or partnering with us. You can find out more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.This episode was narrated and produced by Luisa Mitchell from Centre for Stories. Original music and sound engineering by Mason Vellios. Live recording by Cobie Mason.
Story Hour is Centre for Stories' regular monthly podcast where we sift through our archives of recorded stories to bring you up to an hour of diverse, intriguing, and real experiences from (extra)ordinary people.This month's theme is CROSSROADS. Being at a crossroads means grappling with indecision and the weight of potential outcomes. It's when the comfort of the known meets the uncertainty of the unknown, challenging us to make decisions that shape our future. In this episode, we’ll hear stories from people who faced their own crossroads, revealing how these moments of choice shaped their lives and identities. Join us as we explore how navigating these critical points can lead to growth and transformation. Featuring storytellers Min Sheen Tan, Lee Scott-Virtue, Kris Marano and Reena Devi Seedhari.If you liked this episode, find out more about our stories and services at www.centreforstories.com.Sound engineering and original music from Mason Vellios. Narrated by Luisa Mitchell.
Story Hour is Centre for Stories' regular monthly podcast where we sift through our archives of recorded stories to bring you up to an hour of diverse, intriguing, and real experiences from (extra)ordinary people.This month's theme is THE BODY. The body is more than just flesh and bone; it's a canvas on which society paints its expectations, norms, and judgments. We are all subject to the world’s gaze, and in turn, we internalize these perceptions, letting them shape how we see ourselves and how we move through the world. The body is a site of joy, pain, pride, and sometimes, conflict. It is where our deepest fears and greatest strengths reside. Featuring storytellers Sandi Parsons, Olivia Knowles, Nadia Heisler Walpole and Sankari Sivaramalingam.If you liked this episode, find out more about our stories and services at www.centreforstories.com.Sound engineering and original music from Mason Vellios. Narrated by Luisa Mitchell.
CONTENT WARNING: This story contains content that will be triggering for some, including mental illness and substance abuse. Please take care of yourself while listening and take a break if needed. If you or someone you know is feeling suicidal, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14.After Kelly Campbell experienced a stroke, she lost her job and was suddenly dependent on welfare payments. Shocked to find the system was bureaucratic and unhelpful, she can’t count the number of times she wasn’t listened to. Then, after her rental lease ended, she found herself homeless.Supported by Shelter WA, funded by Sisters of St John of God and produced by Centre for Stories, More Than Our Stories is a collection of lived experiences of homelessness and housing insecurity from Shelter WA’s HOME Lived Experience Advisory Group. Storytellers were supported to share some of their experiences and advocate for essential housing reform.If you enjoyed this episode, learn more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com or donate to support us. Thank you.
CONTENT WARNING: This story contains content that will be triggering for some, including mental illness and substance abuse. Please take care of yourself while listening and take a break if needed. If you or someone you know is feeling suicidal, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14.Anthea Corbett was always good at school – particularly art and painting. But as her life took a series of twists and turns as an adult – having children, suffering from addiction, being incarcerated – it became a struggle to return to the things she had once enjoyed in life.Supported by Shelter WA, funded by Sisters of St John of God and produced by Centre for Stories, More Than Our Stories is a collection of lived experiences of homelessness and housing insecurity from Shelter WA’s HOME Lived Experience Advisory Group. Storytellers were supported to share some of their experiences and advocate for essential housing reform.If you enjoyed this episode, learn more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com or donate to support us. Thank you.
CONTENT WARNING: This story contains content that will be triggering for some, including mental illness and substance abuse. Please take care of yourself while listening and take a break if needed. If you or someone you know is feeling suicidal, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14.Lana Moon was always told she had so much potential. Yet the abuse and violence secretly occurring against her at home made her feel worthless. As a way to numb the pain and feel like a “normal person”, Lana turned to alcohol and other drugs.Supported by Shelter WA, funded by Sisters of St John of God and produced by Centre for Stories, More Than Our Stories is a collection of lived experiences of homelessness and housing insecurity from Shelter WA’s HOME Lived Experience Advisory Group. Storytellers were supported to share some of their experiences and advocate for essential housing reform.If you enjoyed this episode, learn more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com or donate to support us. Thank you.
CONTENT WARNING: This story contains content that will be triggering for some, including mental illness and substance abuse. Please take care of yourself while listening and take a break if needed. If you or someone you know is feeling suicidal, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14.Due to family issues at home, a spiralling drug addiction and the consequences that followed, Gabby was already incarcerated in Banksia Hill Prison by the time she was fifteen. But it would take a long time for Gabby to realise she was suffering from mental illness too and needed help from others.Supported by Shelter WA, funded by Sisters of St John of God and produced by Centre for Stories, More Than Our Stories is a collection of lived experiences of homelessness and housing insecurity from Shelter WA’s HOME Lived Experience Advisory Group. Storytellers were supported to share some of their experiences and advocate for essential housing reform.If you enjoyed this episode, learn more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com or donate to support us. Thank you.
Story Hour is Centre for Stories' regular monthly podcast where we sift through our archives of recorded stories to bring you up to an hour of diverse, intriguing, and real experiences from (extra)ordinary people.This month's theme is GENDER. Just as culture and society is fluid and complex, gender is a spectrum subject to the eye of the beholder and how the person identifies themselves. Gender-based discrimination and conversely, gender privilege, influences people’s expression of their gender identity. Today we delve deeper into the importance of gender identity and the ways it moulds us, through four different stories. Featuring storytellers Emery Wishart, Noelle Martin, Dawson Ruhl and "Alice".If you liked this episode, find out more about our stories and services at www.centreforstories.com.Sound engineering and original music from Mason Vellios. Narrated by Luisa Mitchell.
Story Hour is Centre for Stories' regular monthly podcast where we sift through our archives of recorded stories to bring you up to an hour of diverse, intriguing, and real experiences from (extra)ordinary people.This month's theme is ROOTS. Our roots influence our values, our beliefs, and the way we navigate the world. In this episode, we delve into the journeys of individuals as they navigate the intricate process of connecting with, letting go of, or returning to their roots. Featuring storytellers Judy Ann Edgar, Michael, Widi Astuti and Alex Watson.If you liked this episode, find out more about our stories and services at www.centreforstories.com.Sound engineering and original music from Mason Vellios. Narrated by Luisa Mitchell.
Story Hour is Centre for Stories' regular monthly podcast where we sift through our archives of recorded stories to bring you up to an hour of diverse, intriguing, and real experiences from (extra)ordinary people.This month's theme is PREJUDICE, a deeply ingrained aspect of the human experience. Our stories show how prejudice manifests in myriad forms across societies and cultures. It's the lens through which we sometimes view others, coloured by stereotypes, biases, and preconceptions. Featuring storytellers Sarah Duguid, John Gilmore, Shizleen Aishath and Skye Windebank.If you liked this episode, find out more about our stories and services at www.centreforstories.com.Sound engineering and original music from Mason Vellios. Narrated by Luisa Mitchell.
Story Hour is Centre for Stories' regular monthly podcast where we sift through our archives of recorded stories to bring you up to an hour of diverse, intriguing, and real experiences from (extra)ordinary people.This month's theme is LOSS. Through personal narratives and shared reflections, we confront the complexities of grief, acknowledging its presence as an inevitable part of the human journey. Featuring Alexandra Geneve, Carly Dudly, Rowena Alexander and Graham Edwards.If you liked this episode, find out more about our stories and services at www.centreforstories.com.Sound engineering and original music from Mason Vellios. Narrated by Luisa Mitchell.
Story Hour is Centre for Stories' regular monthly podcast where we sift through our archives of recorded stories to bring you up to an hour of diverse, intriguing, and real experiences from (extra)ordinary people.This month's theme is TRANSITION. Transition is the silent conductor orchestrating the symphony of life, guiding each individual through the ebb and flow of change. It shapes our identities, reshapes our destinies, and beckons us forward with the promise of new beginnings while bidding farewell to the comforts of the past. Featuring Dr Tanja Glusac, Uncle Ben Taylor, Shamit Saggar and Paddi Creevey.If you liked this episode, find out more about our stories and services at www.centreforstories.com.Sound engineering and original music from Mason Vellios.
After ending an abusive and unhappy marriage, Rachel Farnay decided to become an IT and STEM teacher. She hoped that through teaching, she would never be lonely again. Soon she found that it was the students who would give her a joy and meaning she had never experienced before.Funded by City of Joondalup and produced by Centre for Stories, Colourful Stories is a collection of experiences set to the theme of ‘Better Together’ and showcased at the Joondalup Festival 2024. These stories came from residents living in Joondalup and the surrounding suburbs who shared a belief in the power of connection and community, reminding us of the strength and value we gain when we overcome individual desires, ego and biases to value unexpected people and places around us.If you enjoyed this episode, learn more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com or donate to support us. Thank you.
After a shock diagnosis of a brain tumour, Natalie Bock's surgery left her vulnerable and isolated at home while she recovered. She couldn’t work, she couldn’t live, and as she wasn’t technically a ‘senior’ or ‘living with a disability’, many support services wouldn’t help her. Desperate, she decided to make friends in unexpected places.Funded by City of Joondalup and produced by Centre for Stories, Colourful Stories is a collection of experiences set to the theme of ‘Better Together’ and showcased at the Joondalup Festival 2024. These stories came from residents living in Joondalup and the surrounding suburbs who shared a belief in the power of connection and community, reminding us of the strength and value we gain when we overcome individual desires, ego and biases to value unexpected people and places around us.If you enjoyed this episode, learn more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com or donate to support us. Thank you.
This story was shared by Jenny Martin. Here, she shares how after her divorce, she entered the ‘age of invisibility’ as a single woman in her 50s and struggled through anxiety and depression. Her saving grace was an unexpected place – Mullaloo Beach.Funded by City of Joondalup and produced by Centre for Stories, Colourful Stories is a collection of experiences set to the theme of ‘Better Together’ and showcased at the Joondalup Festival 2024. These stories came from residents living in Joondalup and the surrounding suburbs who shared a belief in the power of connection and community, reminding us of the strength and value we gain when we overcome individual desires, ego and biases to value unexpected people and places around us.If you enjoyed this episode, learn more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com or donate to support us. Thank you.
This story was shared by Jerome Masamaka. Jerome shares how as a young boy growing up in Ghana he accidentally killed his clan’s sacred totem bird – the sparrow. The guilt and anxiety that plagued Jerome kept him up at night and would eventually influence the writer he would one day become.Funded by City of Joondalup and produced by Centre for Stories, Colourful Stories is a collection of experiences set to the theme of ‘Better Together’ and showcased at the Joondalup Festival 2024. These stories came from residents living in Joondalup and the surrounding suburbs who shared a belief in the power of connection and community, reminding us of the strength and value we gain when we overcome individual desires, ego and biases to value unexpected people and places around us.If you enjoyed this episode, learn more about Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com or donate to support us. Thank you.
Story Hour is Centre for Stories' regular monthly podcast where we sift through our archives of recorded stories to bring you up to an hour of diverse, intriguing, and real experiences from (extra)ordinary people.This month's theme is LANGUAGE. Language, the very fabric of human connection, holds within it a myriad of stories, experiences, and emotions. It serves as a vessel for our thoughts, a mirror reflecting our heritage, and a bridge connecting us to one another. If you liked this episode, find out more about our stories and services at www.centreforstories.com.Sound engineering and original music from Mason Vellios.
Content Warning: Domestic violence, suicidal ideation, drug use.This story was shared by Bianca, who escaped an abusive relationship and quit drugs after falling pregnant. And yet her ex-partner still refused to leave her alone. Struggling with a broken legal system, it was the love for her children that kept her going in the darkest times. Funded by Anglicare WA and produced by Centre for Stories, Against All Odds is a collection of lived experiences of homelessness, housing insecurity and financial distress. These stories reflect on experiencing a broken system. Although these struggles happened many years ago for some of them, their stories were ironically recorded during Australia’s cost-of-living crisis in 2023, which continues today. The public health issues of homelessness and poverty are as relevant as ever for many modern families. Here, our storytellers share what they believe needs to change about that system.Find out more and support our mission at www.centreforstories.com.
Content warning: Suicidal ideation.Story Hour is Centre for Stories' regular monthly podcast where we sift through our archives of recorded stories to bring you up to an hour of diverse, intriguing, and real experiences from (extra)ordinary people.This month's theme is LOVE. Love, the essential force behind all human experience, shapes our identities, fuels our passions, and binds us together in ways both tender and complex. Love can be exhilarating, uplifting, and transformative, yet it can also be complex, challenging, and riddled with uncertainty. It's both a beacon of light and a shadowy abyss, weaving its threads through the fabric of our lives. Find out more about our stories and storytelling services at www.centreforstories.com.Sound engineering and original music from Mason Vellios.
Content Warning: Family and domestic violence.This story was shared by Lisa Dodson, who escaped an abusive relationship and started a new life with her children. Still under constant threat and struggling to find a place to rent in the cost-of-living crisis, this is how Lisa found a light at the end of the tunnel.Funded by Anglicare WA and produced by Centre for Stories, Against All Odds is a collection of lived experiences of homelessness, housing insecurity and financial distress. These stories reflect on experiencing a broken system. Although these struggles happened many years ago for some of them, their stories were ironically recorded during Australia’s cost-of-living crisis in 2023, which continues today. The public health issues of homelessness and poverty are as relevant as ever for many modern families. Here, our storytellers share what they believe needs to change about that system.Find out more at www.centreforstories.com.
Content Warning: Substance abuse/drug addiction.This story was shared by Tanya Smith, who shares how just one person viewing her as a human being helped her to overcome a drug addiction and find meaning in her life. Tanya now helps others recovering from substance abuse at Doors Wide Open.Funded by Anglicare WA and produced by Centre for Stories, Against All Odds is a collection of lived experiences of homelessness, housing insecurity and financial distress. These stories reflect on experiencing a broken system. Although these struggles happened many years ago for some of them, their stories were ironically recorded during Australia’s cost-of-living crisis in 2023, which continues today. The public health issues of homelessness and poverty are as relevant as ever for many modern families. Here, our storytellers share what they believe needs to change about that system.Find out more at www.centreforstories.com.
Story Hour is Centre for Stories regular monthly podcast where we sift through our archives of recorded stories to bring you up to an hour of diverse, intriguing, and real experiences from ordinary people. This month's theme is HOME. What does home mean to different people? What is it like to craft a new one for yourself, or to find belonging in your old one? What is it like to not have a home at all? ft. Lucy Aboagye, Jay Anderson, Nisha D'Cruz and Victor Adeselou. All story copyright belongs to the storytellers.Find out more about our stories and storytelling services at www.centreforstories.com. Sound engineering and original music from Mason Vellios.
This story was shared by Nigena author and historian Dr Cindy Solonec. Cindy’s story is about the passing of her Aunty Edie and how the health system didn’t address her cultural and spiritual needs. This story was recorded at the Joondalup Reception Centre in September 2023 and made possible with funding from the Australia Communities Foundation.Photo credit: Duncan Wright.To find out more about this story and Hear Our Voice, head to www.centreforstories.com.
This story was shared by Whadjuk Nyungar Elder Dr Gerrard Shaw. Uncle Gerrard’s story is a warning that the injustices of past government policies must never happen again – and what it looks like when government works together with Aboriginal communities. A warning that this story contains reference to the Stolen Generations.This story was recorded at the Joondalup Reception Centre in September 2023 and made possible with funding from the Australia Communities Foundation.Gerrard’s story was also translated into Mandarin by Luoyang Chen - you can read the Mandarin transcript on the Centre for Stories website.To find out more about this project, head to www.centreforstories.com.
This story was shared by Wardandi Bibbulmun artist and singer Jarred Wall, otherwise known as “Boox Kid”. Jarred’s story is about his growing unease with the youth justice system and his discovery of strength and unity in Nyungar language and song.This story was recorded at Edmund Rice Centre Mirrabooka in October 2023. It was made possible with funding from the Australia Communities Foundation.Learn more about Hear Our Voice and the other stories at www.centreforstories.com.
This story was shared by Ballardong Noongar writer, editor and teacher Casey Mulder. Casey’s story is about her first experience as a graduate teacher working in the remote Aboriginal community of Halls Creek in the Kimberley. This story was recorded at Centre for Stories in September 2023 and made possible with funding from the Australia Communities Foundation.Find out more about Hear Our Voice at www.centreforstories.com.
This story was shared by Ngarluma filmmaker and dancer Perun Bonser. Perun’s story is about how he decided to use film and art to show Australia there are different stories about Aboriginal people – more than just the dominant narrative given by the mainstream media. This story was recorded at Edmund Rice Centre WA in October 2023 and made possible with funding from the Australia Communities Foundation.Find out more about HEAR OUR VOICE at www.centreforstories.com.
This story was shared by poet and Indian Australian author Lakshmi Kanchi. Lakshmi’s story is about how her newfound sense of belonging in the Perth wetlands came under threat during the Roe 8 highway development proposal. This story was recorded at the Joondalup Reception Centre in September 2023 and made possible with funding from the Australia Communities Foundation.Lakshmi has also shared her story in Hindi. You can listen to the Hindi interpretation of her story on the Centre for Stories website.For more information about Hear Our Voice and listen to other stories, go to www.centreforstories.com.
This story was shared by Bardi storyteller and navy veteran Ron Bradfield. Ron’s story is about how a chance meeting with a stranger led to a trip down memory lane into the multicultural heritage and harmony of Broome in the 1950s.This story was recorded at the Chinese Moon Lantern Festival in the Scarborough Community Hub, September 2023. It was made possible with funding from the Australia Communities Foundation.Find out more about Hear Our Voice and Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com.Photo credit: Pranay Singh.
This story was shared by Whadjuk Nyungar descendent and writer Luisa Mitchell. Luisa shares how a cultural trip with relatives turned sour one night when two police showed up at their caravan park with questions. Luisa also produced the Hear Our Voice project and is a coordinator at Centre for Stories.This story was recorded at Centre for Stories in September 2023. It was made possible with generous support from the Australia Communities Foundation.Find out more about Hear Our Voice and Centre for Stories at www.centreforstories.com. Photo credit: Duncan Wright.
Katelyn is an award-winning goalkeeper for the ParaMatildas. Founded in 2019, the ParaMatildas is Australia’s first national team for women and girls with cerebral palsy, acquired brain injury and symptoms of stroke. Katelyn recently won the inaugural ParaMatildas Player of the Year and Goalkeeper of the Tournament after a silver medal winning run in their first international Women’s World Cup campaign in 2022.Game Changers is a collection of stories from WA elite athletes past and present considered to be the best in the game; and from community role models who are courageously making soccer more accessible and equitable for future generations of women, young girls and newcomers of all genders to the game. Find out more at centreforstories.com.
Mikayla is a sports scientist and educator. A woman of many talents, she is currently completing her PhD studies at Notre Dame University in gender equity in soccer. She also works as a strength and conditioning coach for Fremantle Dockers in the AFLW, and as a mentor for young girls in soccer through the Gaining Ground.Game Changers is a collection of stories from WA elite athletes past and present considered to be the best in the game; and from community role models who are courageously making soccer more accessible and equitable for future generations of women, young girls and newcomers of all genders to the game. Find out more at centreforstories.com.
Growing up in Margaret River and not initially taking soccer seriously as a career, Tash took an unusual route to becoming captain of the Perth Glory Women’s League, replacing Sam Kerr in 2019. Tash believes in making space for others to lead through their strength, and is honoured to join a movement of strong women paving the way for future generations of soccer-lovers.Game Changers is a collection of stories from WA elite athletes past and present considered to be the best in the game; and from community role models who are courageously making soccer more accessible and equitable for future generations of women, young girls and newcomers of all genders to the game. Find out more at centreforstories.com.
Goalkeeper for international Women’s Super League clubs and Australia’s national team the Matildas, Lydia is a proud Nyungar woman who grew up playing in the red dirt of Kalgoorlie, a small town north-east of Perth, before moving to Canberra to pursue her career in soccer. She has been inducted into the Aboriginal and Islander Sports Hall of Fame. Game Changers is a collection of stories from WA elite athletes past and present considered to be the best in the game; and from community role models who are courageously making soccer more accessible and equitable for future generations of women, young girls and newcomers of all genders to the game. Find out more at centreforstories.com.Photo credit: Ann Odong.
Soccer runs through the Brooking family’s veins. Thembi and her daughter Ischia both play soccer, while Thembi’s husband coaches. After migrating from Zimbabwe to Perth, Thembi started out playing soccer in an area of Perth where there was less opportunity for young girls to play and is now proud to see that changing for her daughter, Ischia, who is playing at an elite level with the Junior Matildas.Game Changers is a collection of stories from WA elite athletes past and present considered to be the best in the game; and from community role models who are courageously making soccer more accessible and equitable for future generations of women, young girls and newcomers of all genders to the game. Find out more at centreforstories.com.
Tracey Wheeler is an early champion of women in soccer, representing Australia in our national team the Matildas first as a midfielder, and later as a goalkeeper. She made her international goalkeeping debut against New Zealand in 1989, and has played 55 international matches for Australia, including three games at the 2000 Olympics.Game Changers is a collection of stories from WA elite athletes past and present considered to be the best in the game; and from community role models who are courageously making soccer more accessible and equitable for future generations of women, young girls and newcomers of all genders to the game. Find out more at centreforstories.com.
Sports journalist Ann Odong travels with the national Matildas team and is Digital Content Project Manager for Football Federation Australia. Ann’s story begins when her family were forced to flee Uganda as refugees. They resettled in Perth, Western Australia. Growing up in a new country, Ann found the best way to connect with other kids was through a shared passion for playing soccer. Game Changers is a collection of stories from WA elite athletes past and present considered to be the best in the game; and from community role models who are courageously making soccer more accessible and equitable for future generations of women, young girls and newcomers of all genders to the game. Find out more at centreforstories.com.
Jaime is a trans woman, soccer player and committee member for the South Perth Pride Football Club, an inclusive soccer club for players of all different backgrounds, races, ages, abilities and sexualities.Game Changers is a collection of stories from WA elite athletes past and present considered to be the best in the game; and from community role models who are courageously making soccer more accessible and equitable for future generations of women, young girls and newcomers of all genders to the game. Find out more at centreforstories.com.
Marilyn has the great honour of being the first West Australian female referee to crash into the male-dominated game in the late 1970’s. In 1992, she was the first woman to run the line in a national men’s soccer league game.Game Changers is a collection of stories from WA elite athletes past and present considered to be the best in the game; and from community role models who are courageously making soccer more accessible and equitable for future generations of women, young girls and newcomers of all genders to the game. Find out more at centreforstories.com.
Growing up in a working-class family in Nottingham, UK, Sandra Brentnall’s dad recognised his daughter’s indisputable talent for playing soccer, and decided to relocate his family to Perth, WA to champion her rise in the game. At just 15 Sandra made it into the State team and by 17 she was flying the flag for Australia and playing for the Matildas.Game Changers is a collection of stories from WA elite athletes past and present considered to be the best in the game; and from community role models who are courageously making soccer more accessible and equitable for future generations of women, young girls and newcomers of all genders to the game. Find out more at centreforstories.com.
What does a “good death” look like? How important is choice and control to having a dignified end-of-life? Why is death still such a taboo topic for some communities, and how might community be the very answer to some of our most difficult questions concerning death?
Brought to you in partnership with Palliative Care WA, listen back to our fascinating panel conversation on these topics, all in celebration of the State Library of Western Australia and Centre for Stories’ latest oral history collection: ‘Death and Dying‘.
Facilitated by journalist and palliative care advocate Rita Alfred-Saggar and featuring three speakers: CEO of Palliative Care WA, Lana Glogowski; Founder and Director of the human rights-focussed Metis Centre, Dr Marilyn Metta; and Director of Tender Funerals Perth, Jane House.
This panel conversation was recorded by the State Library of Western Australia. Head to centreforstories.com to find out more about our work.
Recipient of the Patricia Kailis International Writing Fellowship and acclaimed Indonesian writer and poet, Norman Erikson Pasaribu, sits down in conversation with local Perth author, Rashida Murphy. Together, they discuss navigating the literary world as a writer in translation, the labels of Western literature and queer Indonesian writing. This conversation was held at the University Club Banquet Hall at the University of Western Australia in November 2022.
Born in Jakarta in 1990, Norman's first short story collection 'Hanya Kamu yang Tahu Berapa Lama Lagi Aku Harus Menunggu (Only You Know How Much Longer I Should Wait)' was shortlisted for the 2014 Khatulistiwa Literary Award for Prose. Their debut poetry collection 'Sergius Mencari Bacchus (Sergius Seeks Bacchus)' won the 2015 Jakarta Arts Council Poetry Competition, was translated into English by Tiffany Tsao, and published by Giramondo in Australia in 2019. In 2022, 'Happy Stories, Mostly' was released to critical acclaim and longlisted for the International Man Booker.
The Patricia Kailis International Writing Fellowship is possible thanks to the sponorship of Dr George Kailis.
At 84 years old, Betty McGeever has no plans of slowing down. Growing up as a country girl on a farm before later working as a librarian, Betty is grateful for the life she’s had. She discusses why she doesn’t grieve for those she’s lost; how her weekly kayaking keeps her sane; and why helping others less fortunate than herself brings her more joy than anything else she’s ever done.
Death and Dying is an oral history collection commissioned by the State Library of WA and produced by Centre for Stories. Head to centreforstories.com to find out more.
Mother, grandmother and dressmaker, Sandy Mitchell, lives in an isolated town in the southwest region of Western Australia, with a population of around 400 people. She shares how the losses she has experienced in her life – losing her dad to dementia, her newborn baby to a heart defect and her mother to cancer – have impacted her views on life and death.
Death and Dying is an oral history collection commissioned by the State Library of Western Australia and produced by Centre for Stories. Head to centreforstories.com to find out more.
Graham Bullock was shocked when, at the age of 65, he was diagnosed with motor neurone disease and only given a few year’s to live. His wife Helen, a retired nurse, became his full-time carer. They discuss why Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD) is the most compassionate way to face the end for people with painful terminal illnesses like Graham.
Death and Dying is an oral history collection commissioned by the State Library of Western Australia and produced by Centre for Stories. Head to centreforstories.com to find out more.
Natalie Bogoias is a Homeless Healthcare street nurse and Trish Owen is a survivor of homelessness. They discuss why people are dying on the streets, what happens to them when they do, and why society deems a homeless person’s life to be of less value than others.
Death and Dying is an oral history collection commissioned by the State Library of Western Australia and produced by Centre for Stories. Head to centreforstories.com to find out more.
Lena Van Hale, manager of the sex worker rights organisation, Magenta, is a sex worker activist and trans person. In this interview she breaks down the misinformation around violence and death for sex workers, why (and when) suicide is actually prevalent among trans people, and how deaths from the HIV pandemic affect everyone today.
Death and Dying is an oral history collection commissioned by the State Library of Western Australia and produced by Centre for Stories. Head to centreforstories.com to find out more.
Lifeline WA ambassadors Leon and Adrian discuss men’s mental health, dance and haka as a medicine, and suicide prevention.
Death and Dying is an oral history collection commissioned by the State Library of WA and produced by Centre for Stories. Head to centreforstories.com to find out more.
Leanne is the founder and owner of South West Grief and Loss Centre and is an experienced grief and bereavement counsellor. Here she discusses how grief is not linear, but rather made up of a million tiny moments; why our communities need to come together to better support people in their mourning; and how living our values and having self-awareness are key to healing and moving forward after loss.
Death and Dying is an oral history collection funded by the State Library of Western Australia and produced by Centre for Stories. Head to centreforstories.com to find out more.
Trigger warning: This story discusses suicide.
Award-winning artist Abdul-Rahman Abdullah discusses how he uses art and sculpture to create open spaces that encourage conversations around death and grief. He reflects on the loss of his grandfather to suicide, capturing his feelings on death through his sculpture, Pretty Beach, how he believes the Western world has ‘sterilised’ death, and the ways his Muslim cultural heritage has influenced his beliefs on death.
Death and Dying is an oral history collection funded by the State Library of Western Australia and produced by Centre for Stories.
Dr Marilyn Metta is a trauma counsellor and founder of the Metis Centre, a social justice and human rights organisation. In this interview, Marilyn talks about ending her mother’s life in Malaysia according to her mother's wishes; her own near-death experience; spirituality and Buddhism; and why trauma influences our views on death.
Death and Dying is an oral history collection funded by the State Library of Western Australia and produced by Centre for Stories.
Professor Jaya Dantas is Dean International in the Faculty of Health Sciences and is Professor of International Health in the School of Public Health at Curtin University, where she leads a programme of research in refugee and migrant health.
Jaya discusses how she believes vulnerable populations were let down in the Australian government’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly migrants and Indigenous people living in remote communities. Having lived in war-torn, conflict zones herself, she also discusses how experiences of extreme violence and death can make humans immensely resilient.
Death and Dying is an oral history collection funded by the State Library of Western Australia and produced by Centre for Stories.
Karijarri and Yawuru woman Judy Anne Edgar and her daughter, Japanese Yawuru woman, Maya Shioji, discuss their multicultural upbringings in Broome, Western Australia, and the rituals and customs that occur during their traditional Indigenous funerals, as well as Japanese funerals.
Death and Dying is an oral history collection funded by the State Library of Western Australia and produced by Centre for Stories.
Amber Dennis was born with spina bifida and hydrocephalus, and has been in a wheelchair for most of her life. She is also the founder of Wheelie Good Perth, an accessibility auditing business which she was inspired to create after the passing of her father and grandmother. Amber discusses why, despite being close to death herself on many an occasion, she embraces life with a passion and has used her experiences with death and grief to become a stronger person.
Death and Dying is an oral history collection funded by the State Library of Western Australia and produced by Centre for Stories.
Sheryl Blanksby moved to Australia from the Philippines when she was a young woman, in search of a better life. In this episode, she shares the harrowing journey of her baby boy Thomas being diagnosed with cancer and making the decision to not proceed with treatment - choosing quality of life over quantity. This is her journey of unimaginable loss, Facebook support groups, and finding strength from her Christian faith; and ultimately, how her grief helped her to find her purpose in her life.
Death and Dying is an oral history collection funded by the State Library of Western Australia. Produced by Centre for Stories.
Forbidden Love is a Centre for Stories project dedicated to love in all its forms. Four storytellers worked along-side story trainer Sukhjit Kaur Khalsa to perfect their stories for a series of live events.
Whether it’s waiting at a bar for an hour to meet your next Tinder date or putting up with your partner’s questionable taste in music, love makes us do strange and wonderful things. So let’s celebrate love by listening to love stories.
This project was possible with funding from the Centre for Stories Founders Circle.
Forbidden Love is a Centre for Stories project dedicated to love in all its forms. Four storytellers worked along-side story trainer Sukhjit Kaur Khalsa to perfect their stories for a series of live events.
Whether it’s waiting at a bar for an hour to meet your next Tinder date or putting up with your partner’s questionable taste in music, love makes us do strange and wonderful things. So let’s celebrate love by listening to love stories.
This project was possible with funding from the Centre for Stories Founders Circle.
Side Walks is an annual one-day sprawling adventure of literature and storytelling across Perth City and Northbridge, celebrating local stories, and activating spaces with arts and culture.
In 2020, Side Walks was held on 5 December and made possible with funding from City of Perth, Aspen Corporate Financial Planning, Rayner Real Estate, and Herbert Smith Freehills.
Combining stories from Centre for Stories’ anthologies Wave after Wave and To Hold the Clouds, Lit Live shares stories from emerging Western Australian writers Belinda Hermawan, Raihanaty A Jalil, Kosta Lucas and Jay Anderson. Featuring Sarah McNeil, Grace Chow, and Darius Williams.
Side Walks is an annual one-day sprawling adventure of literature and storytelling across Perth City and Northbridge, celebrating local stories, and activating spaces with arts and culture.
In 2020, Side Walks was held on 5 December and made possible with funding from City of Perth, Aspen Corporate Financial Planning, Rayner Real Estate, and Herbert Smith Freehills.
A TikTok-inspired, lip-sync battle of Julia Gillard’s iconic misogyny speech provides a kicking off point for a discussion about politics, gender equity, and social media. Featuring Sisonke Msimang, Eduardo Araújo and Shenali Perera.
Side Walks is an annual one-day sprawling adventure of literature and storytelling across Perth City and Northbridge, celebrating local stories, and activating spaces with arts and culture.
In 2020, Side Walks was held on 5 December and made possible with funding from City of Perth, Aspen Corporate Financial Planning, Rayner Real Estate, and Herbert Smith Freehills.
In My Worst Critic, Maanas Tiwari, Garick Lee, and Zoe Bradfield share personal stories about their biggest critics.
Zooming In is a podcast that tells stories of 2020, but it's not a COVID podcast. It's about how life keeps going, even through a global pandemic.
2020 impacted people in many different ways. For Stevie Lane, it was a year of healing.
This podcast collection was made possible with funding from Lotterywest.
Zooming In is a podcast that tells stories of 2020, but it's not a COVID podcast. It's about how life keeps going, even through a global pandemic.
No matter where he ends up, Eduardo Araújo will always remember where he's come from. Looking back now, he knows that the opportunities he's had, and the person he's become, are all because his parents had a plan.
This podcast collection was made possible with funding from Lotterywest.
Although he was half-Chinese, half-English and entirely Australian, people only ever saw entrepreneur and successful businessman Charles Washing as Chinese.
Charles came to Perth at the turn of the 20th century to run his family’s furniture-making company, but racist legislature and attitudes from European businessmen who wanted to keep profits to themselves became huge obstacles to his success.
Listen to the latest Untold Stories of Perth podcast episode to discover how Charles Washing left an important legacy on the resilience, multiculturalism and vibrancy of Asian businesses in Perth.
Episode produced by Centre for Stories for the City of Perth Cultural Collections.
The rights of the LGBTQ+ community in Perth would not be where they are today without the instrumental campaigning of Campaign Against Moral Persecution, otherwise known as CAMP.
Speaking with some of the original founders of CAMP – Brian Lindberg, Graham Douglas and Vivienne Cass – we explore CAMP’s enormous fight for equality and gay rights that began in Perth in the 1970s.
Listen to the latest Untold Stories of Perth podcast episode to discover the story of these fabulously unflappable activists and LGBTQ+ champions.
Episode produced by Centre for Stories for the City of Perth Cultural Collections.
Zooming In is a podcast that tells stories of 2020, but it's not a COVID podcast. It's about how life keeps going, even through a global pandemic.
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Moira Mudzimwa knows that community is at the core of empowerment. She started Black and CUTE to support girls from African backgrounds living in Kalgoorlie to embrace their identity and be proud of who they are.
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This podcast collection was made possible with funding from Lotterywest.
Zooming In is a podcast that tells stories of 2020, but it's not a COVID podcast. It's about how life keeps going, even through a global pandemic.
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Moira Mudzimwa knows that community is at the core of empowerment. She started Black and CUTE to support girls from African backgrounds living in Kalgoorlie to embrace their identity and be proud of who they are.
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This podcast collection was made possible with funding from Lotterywest.
Zooming In is a podcast that tells stories of 2020, but it's not a COVID podcast. It's about how life keeps going, even through a global pandemic.
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Valerie Weyland believes that healing is dynamic – some days are sunshine, and some days are crashing waves.
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This podcast collection was made possible with funding from Lotterywest.
Zooming In is a podcast that tells stories of 2020, but it's not a COVID podcast. It's about how life keeps going, even through a global pandemic.
After living a big life abroad, 2020 forced Garick Lee back home to his childhood home, his childhood bedroom, and thoughts of his childhood self.
This podcast collection was made possible with funding from Lotterywest.
Zooming In is a podcast that tells stories of 2020, but it's not a COVID podcast. It's about how life keeps going, even through a global pandemic.
- A story across two generations – from Chinameca, El Salvador, to Perth, Australia.
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This podcast collection was made possible with funding from Lotterywest.
Zooming In is a podcast that tells stories of 2020, but it's not a COVID podcast. It's about how life keeps going, even through a global pandemic.
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A story across two generations – from Chinameca, El Salvador, to Perth, Australia.
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This podcast collection was made possible with funding from Lotterywest.
Zooming In is a podcast that tells stories of 2020, but it's not a COVID podcast. It's about how life keeps going, even through a global pandemic.
The distance through the pandemic has made Saadia Ahmed realise that although she’s many things – a writer, a feminist, an activist, a friend to many – an important part of her identity is that she's Fizza's big sister.
This podcast collection was made possible with funding from Lotterywest.
Kaya married the first boy she ever dated. At first, it was like a quintessential love story, but not soon after it was clear that some things needed to change.
Untold Stories of Perth is a podcast series funded by the City of Perth exploring fascinating and lesser-known histories of our city. Centre for Stories produced three episodes to contribute to this collection. Take a listen to learn about the punk music scene in 1970s Perth, the history and legacy of St Catherine’s College, and the deeply significant past of the Perth Mosque.
Untold Stories of Perth is a podcast series funded by the City of Perth exploring fascinating and lesser-known histories of our city. Centre for Stories produced three episodes to contribute to this collection. Take a listen to learn about the punk music scene in 1970s Perth, the history and legacy of St Catherine’s College, and the deeply significant past of the Perth Mosque.
Untold Stories of Perth is a podcast series funded by the City of Perth exploring fascinating and lesser-known histories of our city. Centre for Stories produced three episodes to contribute to this collection. Take a listen to learn about the punk music scene in 1970s Perth, the history and legacy of St Catherine’s College, and the deeply significant past of the Perth Mosque.
Liberty Jackson is a drag performer coming from experiences between London and Perth. Learn about how she found her drag persona, finding a performance style and dealing with the balance between popularity and political performance.
Uncle Ben, a Noongar elder, battled alcoholism for many years before addressing the issue head-on. A recipient of the Order of Australia for his reconciliation work, Uncle Ben believes that he must stay upright to give his people hope.
Gina Williams has always felt an urge to assert her Aboriginality and has used her music as both a healing process and a vehicle to tell her story. “All I ever wanted was to belong to a family. I’m firmly committed to rewriting the script. This language is not just an Australian history, it’s an Indigenous history; but there’s enough space for everybody. Developing connections to land and each other is powerful.”
Dalwinder Singh shares his experiences – both good and bad – as a Sihk taxi driver in Perth. ‘It’s just about breaking down barriers—neighbours may look different but they live in the same suburb.’
Craig Hollywood is the founder of Short Back and Sidewalks, a charity that gives haircuts to homeless and disadvantaged people. His first customer travelled 35 kilometres to get his hair cut. Here, Craig speaks about how a simple haircut can be the catalyst for change, and how the effect and simplicity of having a normal conversation can transform a person.
In this story, Emery Wishart worked alongside Sisonke Msimang to craft and perfect his story.
About Emery: My name is Emery Wishart. I’m a young pre-service primary school teacher with a passion for supporting trans and gender diverse community development. I spent my adolescent years in country WA and want to share my experience of coming into my queer identity.
The Centre for Stories collected a number of written and oral stories. Each participant’s story has been thoughtfully crafted with the help of Oral Storytelling Trainer, Sisonke Msimang, and Writing Expert, Susan Midalia. This project was funded by Community Arts Network (CAN). CAN manages the Catalyst Community Arts fund on behalf of the State of Western Australia through the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries.
“In Australia I will be…” is a series of stories collected in collaboration with the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) at North Metropolitan TAFE. Four AMEP students underwent a series of storytelling workshops at the Centre for Stories to learn the art of positive storytelling to empower them for training and employment opportunities.
These stories profile some of the hard-working migrants who are integrating into Australian society and making a positive impact on those around them.
Niru Singla arrived in Australia from India three and a half years ago. She has a Bachelor of Arts and an Advanced Diploma in Fashion Design and hopes to one day enter the Australian fashion industry.
“In Australia I will be…” is a series of stories collected in collaboration with the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) at North Metropolitan TAFE. Four AMEP students underwent a series of storytelling workshops at the Centre for Stories to learn the art of positive storytelling to empower them for training and employment opportunities.
These stories profile some of the hard-working migrants who are integrating into Australian society and making a positive impact on those around them.
Zhanna Needhman is an accountant and photographer from Russia who moved to Perth in 2018.
Zooming In is a podcast that tells stories of 2020, but it's not a COVID podcast. It's about how life keeps going, even through a global pandemic.
Chris Lin believes in writing as a force for activism. Stories and poetry have been his source of strength as he watches the conflict unfold in his home country of Burma.
This podcast collection was made possible with funding from Lotterywest.
This is a conversation from 'Still and Yet', collected at Side Walks 2021. It features Kim Scott and Elfie Shiosaki.
This is a conversation from 'Still Got It', collected at Side Walks 2021. It features Sisonke Msimang, Caroline Wood, and Jane den Hollander.
This is a recording from 'Still, I Rise', a bilingual poetry reading held as part of Side Walks 2021. It features poets Karen Escobar, Dureshawar Khan, Afeif Ismail, and Daniel Hansen.
This is a conversation from 'Still Life', collected at Side Walks 2021. It features Carmie Olowoyo in conversation with his father Segun Olowoyo.
This conversation is from 'Still Waters Run Deep', collected at Side Walks 2021. It features Shelagh Magadza, Mararo Wangai, Jay Emmanuel and Simone Detourbet.
This is a conversation from 'The Jury is Still Out', collected at Side Walks 2021. It features memoir writers Daley Rangi, Franchesca Walker, Kosta Lucas and Sunili Govinnage.
From Marie Curie to Ada Lovelace, women have been integral to the history of invention, research, and development in science, technology, engineering, math and medicine. There are many strong women working in these areas here in Perth, and yet, all too often they are made invisible, or sometimes placed under enormous pressure, simply because of their gender.
Rule Breakers was a story collecting project focusing on women working in STEMM at Curtin University. The stories collected share the individual and unique stories and achievements of women in Perth. This collaboration aims to enlighten academics, fellow researchers, future students, and the general public, in order to value, recognise and herald the importance of these women.
This is our opportunity to celebrate the work of women in these areas, to share in their pursuit of excellence, and to listen to the important lessons they teach everyone no matter where we are.
Dr Zoe Brafield is Vice President of the Australian College of Midwives, a lecturer at the School of Nursing at Curtin University, and a feminist empowering midwives, mothers and families.
Zoe Bradfield's story is about chasing your dreams, supporting women, and fighting back against the casual sexism women endure every day.
From Marie Curie to Ada Lovelace, women have been integral to the history of invention, research, and development in science, technology, engineering, math and medicine. There are many strong women working in these areas here in Perth, and yet, all too often they are made invisible, or sometimes placed under enormous pressure, simply because of their gender.
Rule Breakers was a story collecting project focusing on women working in STEMM at Curtin University. The stories collected share the individual and unique stories and achievements of women in Perth. This collaboration aims to enlighten academics, fellow researchers, future students, and the general public, in order to value, recognise and herald the importance of these women.
This is our opportunity to celebrate the work of women in these areas, to share in their pursuit of excellence, and to listen to the important lessons they teach everyone no matter where we are.
Prof Sonya Girdler is Director of the Curtin Autism Research Group (CARG) and a Professor at Curtin University’s School of Occupational Therapy, Social Work and Speech Pathology. Her research is directed at improving the participation of autistic individuals in major life areas such as employment and education.
In this story, Sonya shares memories of her life growing up in regional Western Australia - and the many hurdles she jumped to make it in the big smoke. Her story is as much about growing up as it is about her life's mentors: her grandmother's unconditional love and her colleagues' support. Sonya shares a special connection between the two.
From Marie Curie to Ada Lovelace, women have been integral to the history of invention, research, and development in science, technology, engineering, math and medicine. There are many strong women working in these areas here in Perth, and yet, all too often they are made invisible, or sometimes placed under enormous pressure, simply because of their gender.
Rule Breakers was a story collecting project focusing on women working in STEMM at Curtin University. The stories collected share the individual and unique stories and achievements of women in Perth. This collaboration aims to enlighten academics, fellow researchers, future students, and the general public, in order to value, recognise and herald the importance of these women.
This is our opportunity to celebrate the work of women in these areas, to share in their pursuit of excellence, and to listen to the important lessons they teach everyone no matter where we are.
Dr Laura Machuca Suarez is a Senior Research Fellow at Curtin University's Faculty of Science and Engineering. Laura is an environmental microbiologist and a corrosion subject matter expert (SME) whose research activities focus on the interaction of microbes with metals particularly the field of Microbiologically Influenced Corrosion.
Laura's story is about strength, breaking out of the patriarchy, and her biggest idol - her mother.
"In Colombia it matters whose daughter you are. I'm not the daughter of a rich mother and father. The way it goes traditionally in my home country is that it is expected for a woman to get married and stay at home raising a family, totally depending on their husbands financially."
This story was collected at Backstories 2021 in Falcon. It features storyteller Martha Weruing.
This story was collected at Backstories 2021 in Falcon. It features storyteller Carolina Allen.
This story was collected at Backstories 2021 in Falcon. It features storyteller Alana Grant.
This story was collected at Backstories 2021 in Mount Lawley. It features storyteller Rita Khouri.
This story was collected at Backstories 2021 in Mount Lawley. It features storyteller Ryan Steed.
This story was collected at Backstories 2021 in Midland. It features storyteller, Valerie Ogoke.
Content warning: This story contains themes of miscarriage.
This story was collected at Backstories 2021 in Midland. It features storyteller, Khaseta Chase.
This story was collected at Backstories 2021 in Hamersley. It features storyteller, Prunella Riddle.
This story was collected at Backstories 2021 in Hamersley. It features storyteller, Kosta Lucas.
Content warning: This story contains themes of cultism.
This story was collected at Backstories 2021 in Nedlands. It features storyteller, Eduardo Araújo.
This story was collected at Backstories 2021 in South Fremantle. It features storyteller Ron Bradfield.
This story was collected at Backstories 2021 in South Fremantle. It features storyteller Simone Dempster.
This story was collected at Backstories 2021 in South Freo. It features storyteller, Kristen Marano.
This story was collected at Backstories 2021 in Subiaco. It features storyteller Min Sheen Tan.
This story was collected at Backstories 2021 in Gooseberry Hill. It features storyteller Mikaela Castledine.
This story was collected at Backstories 2021 in Subiaco. It features storyteller Stevie Lane.
This story was collected at Backstories 2021 in Quinns Rocks. It features storyteller, Brigitte Underwood-Legeron.
This story was collected at Backstories 2021 in Inglewood. It features storyteller, Andrew Sutherland.
Content warning: This story contains themes of HIV. It also contains sexual references and coarse language.
This story was collected at Backstories 2021 in Southern River. It features storyteller, Nadia Heisler Walpole.
Content warning: This story contains themes of abortion.
This story was collected at Backstories 2021 in Southern River. It features storyteller Rafael Gonzalez.
This story was collected at Backstories 2021 in Caversham. It features storyteller Garick Lee.
This story was collected at Backstories 2021 in Caversham. It features storyteller Saadia Ahmed.
Supported by MinterEllison, 'Making a Difference' explores a variety of unique student and academic experiences in Western Australia.
Two Murdoch University researchers: Aleks Nikoloski and Susan Ledger share insight into their research programs. Their work demonstrates a commitment to research excellence to support industry and the betterment of society.
The University of Western Australia strives to support students from diverse backgrounds. Three students: Mere Rosi Komailevuka, Tyson McEwan, Caitlin Quick; and staff member, Anna Jorgensen, share how different programs at UWA have benefited their journey through academia.
Supported by MinterEllison, 'Making a Difference' explores a variety of unique student and academic experiences in Western Australia.
Two Murdoch University researchers: Aleks Nikoloski and Susan Ledger share insight into their research programs. Their work demonstrates a commitment to research excellence to support industry and the betterment of society.
The University of Western Australia strives to support students from diverse backgrounds. Three students: Mere Rosi Komailevuka, Tyson McEwan, Caitlin Quick; and staff member, Anna Jorgensen, share how different programs at UWA have benefited their journey through academia.
Supported by MinterEllison, 'Making a Difference' explores a variety of unique student and academic experiences in Western Australia.
Two Murdoch University researchers: Aleks Nikoloski and Susan Ledger share insight into their research programs. Their work demonstrates a commitment to research excellence to support industry and the betterment of society.
The University of Western Australia strives to support students from diverse backgrounds. Three students: Mere Rosi Komailevuka, Tyson McEwan, Caitlin Quick; and staff member, Anna Jorgensen, share how different programs at UWA have benefited their journey through academia.
Supported by MinterEllison, 'Making a Difference' explores a variety of unique student and academic experiences in Western Australia.
Two Murdoch University researchers: Aleks Nikoloski and Susan Ledger share insight into their research programs. Their work demonstrates a commitment to research excellence to support industry and the betterment of society.
The University of Western Australia strives to support students from diverse backgrounds. Three students: Mere Rosi Komailevuka, Tyson McEwan, Caitlin Quick; and staff member, Anna Jorgensen, share how different programs at UWA have benefited their journey through academia.
Supported by MinterEllison, 'Making a Difference' explores a variety of unique student and academic experiences in Western Australia.
Two Murdoch University researchers: Aleks Nikoloski and Susan Ledger share insight into their research programs. Their work demonstrates a commitment to research excellence to support industry and the betterment of society.
The University of Western Australia strives to support students from diverse backgrounds. Three students: Mere Rosi Komailevuka, Tyson McEwan, Caitlin Quick; and staff member, Anna Jorgensen, share how different programs at UWA have benefited their journey through academia.
Funded by the State Library of Western Australia, this collection of stories documents 15 experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic that hit Australia in early 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic lead to the declaration of a State of Emergency on 16 March 2020. Western Australia went into strict lockdown between the months of March to May 2020, with further restrictions continuing for months after. During this time, events were cancelled, schools shut down, and parks became overcrowded. Thousands of individuals, businesses, communities, and organisations were severely impacted as they were forced to work from home, social distance and book emergency flights home. This collection, produced by the Centre for Stories in Northbridge, Western Australia, explores these unprecedented affects and contributes a record of this remarkable time in history.
Funded by the State Library of Western Australia, this collection of stories documents 15 experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic that hit Australia in early 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic lead to the declaration of a State of Emergency on 16 March 2020. Western Australia went into strict lockdown between the months of March to May 2020, with further restrictions continuing for months after. During this time, events were cancelled, schools shut down, and parks became overcrowded. Thousands of individuals, businesses, communities, and organisations were severely impacted as they were forced to work from home, social distance and book emergency flights home. This collection, produced by the Centre for Stories in Northbridge, Western Australia, explores these unprecedented affects and contributes a record of this remarkable time in history.
Funded by the State Library of Western Australia, this collection of stories documents 15 experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic that hit Australia in early 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic lead to the declaration of a State of Emergency on 16 March 2020. Western Australia went into strict lockdown between the months of March to May 2020, with further restrictions continuing for months after. During this time, events were cancelled, schools shut down, and parks became overcrowded. Thousands of individuals, businesses, communities, and organisations were severely impacted as they were forced to work from home, social distance and book emergency flights home. This collection, produced by the Centre for Stories in Northbridge, Western Australia, explores these unprecedented affects and contributes a record of this remarkable time in history.
Funded by the State Library of Western Australia, this collection of stories documents 15 experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic that hit Australia in early 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic lead to the declaration of a State of Emergency on 16 March 2020. Western Australia went into strict lockdown between the months of March to May 2020, with further restrictions continuing for months after. During this time, events were cancelled, schools shut down, and parks became overcrowded. Thousands of individuals, businesses, communities, and organisations were severely impacted as they were forced to work from home, social distance and book emergency flights home. This collection, produced by the Centre for Stories in Northbridge, Western Australia, explores these unprecedented affects and contributes a record of this remarkable time in history.
Funded by the State Library of Western Australia, this collection of stories documents 15 experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic that hit Australia in early 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic lead to the declaration of a State of Emergency on 16 March 2020. Western Australia went into strict lockdown between the months of March to May 2020, with further restrictions continuing for months after. During this time, events were cancelled, schools shut down, and parks became overcrowded. Thousands of individuals, businesses, communities, and organisations were severely impacted as they were forced to work from home, social distance and book emergency flights home. This collection, produced by the Centre for Stories in Northbridge, Western Australia, explores these unprecedented affects and contributes a record of this remarkable time in history.
Funded by the State Library of Western Australia, this collection of stories documents 15 experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic that hit Australia in early 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic lead to the declaration of a State of Emergency on 16 March 2020. Western Australia went into strict lockdown between the months of March to May 2020, with further restrictions continuing for months after. During this time, events were cancelled, schools shut down, and parks became overcrowded. Thousands of individuals, businesses, communities, and organisations were severely impacted as they were forced to work from home, social distance and book emergency flights home. This collection, produced by the Centre for Stories in Northbridge, Western Australia, explores these unprecedented affects and contributes a record of this remarkable time in history.
Funded by the State Library of Western Australia, this collection of stories documents 15 experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic that hit Australia in early 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic lead to the declaration of a State of Emergency on 16 March 2020. Western Australia went into strict lockdown between the months of March to May 2020, with further restrictions continuing for months after. During this time, events were cancelled, schools shut down, and parks became overcrowded. Thousands of individuals, businesses, communities, and organisations were severely impacted as they were forced to work from home, social distance and book emergency flights home. This collection, produced by the Centre for Stories in Northbridge, Western Australia, explores these unprecedented affects and contributes a record of this remarkable time in history.
Funded by the State Library of Western Australia, this collection of stories documents 15 experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic that hit Australia in early 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic lead to the declaration of a State of Emergency on 16 March 2020. Western Australia went into strict lockdown between the months of March to May 2020, with further restrictions continuing for months after. During this time, events were cancelled, schools shut down, and parks became overcrowded. Thousands of individuals, businesses, communities, and organisations were severely impacted as they were forced to work from home, social distance and book emergency flights home. This collection, produced by the Centre for Stories in Northbridge, Western Australia, explores these unprecedented affects and contributes a record of this remarkable time in history.
Funded by the State Library of Western Australia, this collection of stories documents 15 experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic that hit Australia in early 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic lead to the declaration of a State of Emergency on 16 March 2020. Western Australia went into strict lockdown between the months of March to May 2020, with further restrictions continuing for months after. During this time, events were cancelled, schools shut down, and parks became overcrowded. Thousands of individuals, businesses, communities, and organisations were severely impacted as they were forced to work from home, social distance and book emergency flights home. This collection, produced by the Centre for Stories in Northbridge, Western Australia, explores these unprecedented affects and contributes a record of this remarkable time in history.
Funded by the State Library of Western Australia, this collection of stories documents 15 experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic that hit Australia in early 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic lead to the declaration of a State of Emergency on 16 March 2020. Western Australia went into strict lockdown between the months of March to May 2020, with further restrictions continuing for months after. During this time, events were cancelled, schools shut down, and parks became overcrowded. Thousands of individuals, businesses, communities, and organisations were severely impacted as they were forced to work from home, social distance and book emergency flights home. This collection, produced by the Centre for Stories in Northbridge, Western Australia, explores these unprecedented affects and contributes a record of this remarkable time in history.
Funded by the State Library of Western Australia, this collection of stories documents 15 experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic that hit Australia in early 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic lead to the declaration of a State of Emergency on 16 March 2020. Western Australia went into strict lockdown between the months of March to May 2020, with further restrictions continuing for months after. During this time, events were cancelled, schools shut down, and parks became overcrowded. Thousands of individuals, businesses, communities, and organisations were severely impacted as they were forced to work from home, social distance and book emergency flights home. This collection, produced by the Centre for Stories in Northbridge, Western Australia, explores these unprecedented affects and contributes a record of this remarkable time in history.
Funded by the State Library of Western Australia, this collection of stories documents 15 experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic that hit Australia in early 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic lead to the declaration of a State of Emergency on 16 March 2020. Western Australia went into strict lockdown between the months of March to May 2020, with further restrictions continuing for months after. During this time, events were cancelled, schools shut down, and parks became overcrowded. Thousands of individuals, businesses, communities, and organisations were severely impacted as they were forced to work from home, social distance and book emergency flights home. This collection, produced by the Centre for Stories in Northbridge, Western Australia, explores these unprecedented affects and contributes a record of this remarkable time in history.
Funded by the State Library of Western Australia, this collection of stories documents 15 experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic that hit Australia in early 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic lead to the declaration of a State of Emergency on 16 March 2020. Western Australia went into strict lockdown between the months of March to May 2020, with further restrictions continuing for months after. During this time, events were cancelled, schools shut down, and parks became overcrowded. Thousands of individuals, businesses, communities, and organisations were severely impacted as they were forced to work from home, social distance and book emergency flights home. This collection, produced by the Centre for Stories in Northbridge, Western Australia, explores these unprecedented affects and contributes a record of this remarkable time in history.
Funded by the State Library of Western Australia, this collection of stories documents 15 experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic that hit Australia in early 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic lead to the declaration of a State of Emergency on 16 March 2020. Western Australia went into strict lockdown between the months of March to May 2020, with further restrictions continuing for months after. During this time, events were cancelled, schools shut down, and parks became overcrowded. Thousands of individuals, businesses, communities, and organisations were severely impacted as they were forced to work from home, social distance and book emergency flights home. This collection, produced by the Centre for Stories in Northbridge, Western Australia, explores these unprecedented affects and contributes a record of this remarkable time in history.
'Rule Breakers' is our opportunity to celebrate the individual and unique stories and achievements of Curtin University’s Women in STEMM. Together, let’s share in their pursuit of excellence, and listen to the important lessons they teach everyone, no matter your gender.
'Rule Breakers' is our opportunity to celebrate the individual and unique stories and achievements of Curtin University’s Women in STEMM. Together, let’s share in their pursuit of excellence, and listen to the important lessons they teach everyone, no matter your gender.
'Rule Breakers' is our opportunity to celebrate the individual and unique stories and achievements of Curtin University’s Women in STEMM. Together, let’s share in their pursuit of excellence, and listen to the important lessons they teach everyone, no matter your gender.
This recording is from an event held on 5 August 2020.
Sisonke Msimang, Ron Bradfield Jnr, Colin Archibald, and Kylie Bracknell share personal stories in the context of recent events around the world and the BLM movement.
This event was made possible with support from Beaufort Rotary Club.
Backstories was a one day multi-sited storytelling festival located in the suburbs of Western Australia. Reaching from Mandurah to Wanneroo, the Backstories festival provided new opportunities for storytellers to share stories in local backyards.
Anju Sivarajah is a storyteller born in Sri Lanka and predominantly raised in Australia. Anju was a witness to extreme violent genocide in Sri Lanka when she was 5 years old. In her story, she reflects on the effects of Sri Lanka’s civil war, and her mixed Sinhalese, Burgher and Tamil heritage.
Backstories was a one day multi-sited storytelling festival located in the suburbs of Western Australia. Reaching from Mandurah to Wanneroo, the Backstories festival provided new opportunities for storytellers to share stories in local backyards.
A migrant family in a new city, a mad dash from a group of bullies, and a conversation with a stranger on a plane. Shamit shows us three moments across time that come together to form a bigger picture.
Shamit Saggar is a leading British academic with expertise in government and industry leadership. He recently moved to Perth with his family and was appointed as the inaugural director of The University of Western Australia’s Public Policy Institute.
Backstories was a one day multi-sited storytelling festival located in the suburbs of Western Australia. Reaching from Mandurah to Wanneroo, the Backstories festival provided new opportunities for storytellers to share stories in local backyards.
"Despite society’s expectations, which disabled me far more than my body did, I have outlived my expiry date many times over."
Sandi Parsons considers her guardianship of gifted lungs one of her many victories in her ongoing battle with Cystic Fibrosis. Sandi was 38 when she underwent a double lung transplant. At Backstories, Sandi shared her story about her battle with Cystic Fibrosis, and the fulfilling life she has managed to create for herself despite its ongoing challenges.
Backstories was a one day multi-sited storytelling festival located in the suburbs of Western Australia. Reaching from Mandurah to Wanneroo, the Backstories festival provided new opportunities for storytellers to share stories in local backyards.
Ron shares the story of a West Australian and a Victorian – an unlikely friendship and its impact across a lifetime.
Backstories was a one day multi-sited storytelling festival located in the suburbs of Western Australia. Reaching from Mandurah to Wanneroo, the Backstories festival provided new opportunities for storytellers to share stories in local backyards.
Shenali Perera is a creative writer, storyteller, artist, boxer and backyard comedian (her family would tell you). Born in Sri Lanka, Shenali grew up in the suburbs of Gosnells and Southern River, and remembers a time when her life in Australia stretched only as far as the Carousel Shopping Centre and Gosnells Library. Currently studying her Masters in Human Rights, Shenali is passionate about intercultural dialogue and connecting all the vibrant communities around her to each other.
Saga Sisterhood is a transformative performance project for women from communities who identify as South Asian that come from non-performer backgrounds but all have something to say about love, friendship, belonging, family and identity.
When Sankari Sivaramalingam moved away from home in her twenties, she quickly found her confidence through self-expression. A spontaneous haircut lead to another, and then another, and another more. It didn't take long before she realised the implications of her actions and had to deal with the consequences.
COMING UP AT THE CENTRE FOR STORIES
Northbridge Crime Walk – December 3, 2019
Join Sean Cowan and take a walk in the footsteps of gangsters, murderers, drug dealers and sex workers in this 90-minute tour of Northbridge’s most notorious crime spots of yesteryear. From the site of a 1950s Calabrian mafia murder, to the containment era brothels and the gambling houses of the 1970s, you’ll be captivated by Perth’s seedier side, as you hear about the crime figures who shaped life in Perth last century.
Tickets: https://centreforstories.com/event/northbridge-crime-walk-6/
Saga Sisterhood is a transformative performance project for women from communities who identify as South Asian that come from non-performer backgrounds but all have something to say about love, friendship, belonging, family and identity.
Anju Sivarajah was a witness to extreme violent genocide in Sri Lanka when she was 5 years old. She reflects on the effects of Sri Lanka’s civil war, and her mixed Sinhalese, Burgher and Tamil heritage. On 21 April 2019, Anju’s island homeland transformed into a war zone after a series of terrorist bombings. She was faced once again with terrifying memories. Her experiences have made her and the people of Sri Lanka stronger as one.
COMING UP AT THE CENTRE FOR STORIES
In Conversation: Paul Genoni and Tanya Dalziell with Susan Midalia –November 11, 2019
Celebrate the non-fiction award winners of the 2019 Prime Minister’s Literary Award with writers Paul Genoni and Tanya Dalziell in conversation with Susan Midalia.
Tickets: https://centreforstories.com/event/in-conversation-susan-midalia-with-paul-genoni-and-tanya-dalziell/
Saga Sisterhood is a transformative performance project for women from communities who identify as South Asian that come from non-performer backgrounds but all have something to say about love, friendship, belonging, family and identity.
After her mother passed away, Asha Kiani dedicated her life to honouring her mum's memory and spirit. But she soon found herself stuck in a continuing cycle of trying to live up to her mum's expectations, or what she thought they were.
COMING UP AT THE CENTRE FOR STORIES
In Conversation: Paul Genoni and Tanya Dalziell with Susan Midalia –November 11, 2019
Celebrate the non-fiction award winners of the 2019 Prime Minister’s Literary Award with writers Paul Genoni and Tanya Dalziell in conversation with Susan Midalia.
Tickets: https://centreforstories.com/event/in-conversation-susan-midalia-with-paul-genoni-and-tanya-dalziell/
Love, Always is a collection of stories about how time and distance significantly alters the terrain of family and belonging. In this series, we explore the lives of three individuals on the verge of adulthood, who offer us a deeper glimpse into their struggles and desires.
Dira is a second year Early Childhood international student in her early 20s. She came to Perth for exchange and studied at Curtin for a semester. Dira is currently based in the U.K. at the University of Hertfordshire. She grew up in Indonesia, and shares a very strong bond with her parents, despite being thousands of miles apart from them. In this interview, she expresses the ways in which distance has altered her relationship with her parents, bringing them closer together, rather than farther apart.
COMING UP AT THE CENTRE FOR STORIES
Wave After Wave Book Launch – October 30, 2019
Join Rashida Murphy as she launches Centre for Stories’ first solo publication, Wave after Wave: Writers from the Indian Ocean.
Wave After Wave is a collection of poetry and short stories developed by ten emerging writers of Indian Ocean heritage beyond the west coast of Australia.
Tickets: https://centreforstories.com/event/book-launch-wave-after-wave/
Love, Always is a collection of stories about how time and distance significantly alters the terrain of family and belonging. In this series, we explore the lives of three individuals on the verge of adulthood, who offer us a deeper glimpse into their struggles and desires.
Gayatri Ramesh is a 24 year old medical student, currently majoring in Podiatry at the University of Western Australia. She grew up in Singapore and moved to Perth at the age of 16. As an international student, she opens up about being homesick, maintaining her strong familial ties and shares her dreams and aspirations in regard to creating a better life for her and her family.
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COMING UP AT THE CENTRE FOR STORIES
Northbridge Crime Walk – November 5, 2019
Join Sean Cowan and take a walk in the footsteps of gangsters, murderers, drug dealers and sex workers in this 90-minute tour of Northbridge’s most notorious crime spots of yesteryear. From the site of a 1950s Calabrian mafia murder, to the containment era brothels and the gambling houses of the 1970s, you’ll be captivated by Perth’s seedier side, as you hear about the crime figures who shaped life in Perth last century.
Tickets: https://centreforstories.com/event/northbridge-crime-walk-7/
In collaboration with the School of Education and Curtin University’s Place Activation, Lunchtime Stories was a project that involved five international students sharing their experiences at Curtin, and around Western Australia. The five storytellers went through a series of workshops with Story Trainer, Michael Abercromby, where they learned to share their story with confidence in a succinct and engaging way. These stories were then shared live at lunchtime at the Creative Quarter, as part of Curtin’s commitment to activating underutilised space.
Amy talks about how her life in Thailand has been stable for many years until she moved to Australia to pursue a degree at Curtin University. She shares funny anecdotes about the strange cultural differences she has encountered through her travels as well as while living in Australia. Throughout all this, Amy learned that it’s okay to ask for help.
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COMING UP AT THE CENTRE FOR STORIES
Side Walks – October 5, 2019
Side Walks is a dynamic, one-day celebration of storytelling in its various forms across Northbridge and the Perth CBD. Bringing together artists, writers, journalists and poets from across multiple disciplines, Side Walks presents six free unique events in venues both usual and unusual. From poetry to crime writing, literature to oral storytelling, these engaging events will inspire, challenge, and delight.
RSVP: https://centreforstories.com/events/category/side-walks/
In collaboration with the School of Education and Curtin University’s Place Activation, Lunchtime Stories was a project that involved five international students sharing their experiences at Curtin, and around Western Australia. The five storytellers went through a series of workshops with Story Trainer, Michael Abercromby, where they learned to share their story with confidence in a succinct and engaging way. These stories were then shared live at lunchtime at the Creative Quarter, as part of Curtin’s commitment to activating underutilised space.
Candy is studying a Master’s degree in Education at Curtin University. Candy often finds herself over thinking things and worrying about how her actions might lead her in the wrong direction. She shares how learning and speaking English played a huge role in her education and how wearing mascara is never a good choice when talking to lecturers about difficult topics.
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COMING UP AT THE CENTRE FOR STORIES
Side Walks – October 5, 2019
Side Walks is a dynamic, one-day celebration of storytelling in its various forms across Northbridge and the Perth CBD. Bringing together artists, writers, journalists and poets from across multiple disciplines, Side Walks presents six free unique events in venues both usual and unusual. From poetry to crime writing, literature to oral storytelling, these engaging events will inspire, challenge, and delight.
RSVP: https://centreforstories.com/events/category/side-walks/
In collaboration with the School of Education and Curtin University’s Place Activation, Lunchtime Stories was a project that involved five international students sharing their experiences at Curtin, and around Western Australia. The five storytellers went through a series of workshops with Story Trainer, Michael Abercromby, where they learned to share their story with confidence in a succinct and engaging way. These stories were then shared live at lunchtime at the Creative Quarter, as part of Curtin’s commitment to activating underutilised space.
Nur Hazirah is a student at Curtin University originally from Singapore. In her story, she explored the negative perceptions many of her peers have towards international students. Hazirah talks candidly about complex family debates, as well as, her own cognitive dissonance and frustrations she encountered before moving to Australia to pursue a Bachelor of Primary Education.
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COMING UP AT THE CENTRE FOR STORIES
Side Walks – October 5, 2019
Side Walks is a dynamic, one-day celebration of storytelling in its various forms across Northbridge and the Perth CBD. Bringing together artists, writers, journalists and poets from across multiple disciplines, Side Walks presents six free unique events in venues both usual and unusual. From poetry to crime writing, literature to oral storytelling, these engaging events will inspire, challenge, and delight.
RSVP: https://centreforstories.com/events/category/side-walks/
In collaboration with the School of Education and Curtin University’s Place Activation, Lunchtime Stories was a project that involved five international students sharing their experiences at Curtin, and around Western Australia. The five storytellers went through a series of workshops with Story Trainer, Michael Abercromby, where they learned to share their story with confidence in a succinct and engaging way. These stories were then shared live at lunchtime at the Creative Quarter, as part of Curtin’s commitment to activating underutilised space.
Reena Devi Seedhari is a post-graduate student at Curtin University studying a Master's of Education. In 2018, Reena was faced with the terrifying possibility of being deported after struggling with improving her grades. After a series of difficult situations, Reena soon learned that sometimes you have to lean on others to help yourself.
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COMING UP AT THE CENTRE FOR STORIES
Spotlight on Brazil – October 3, 2019
Brazil is a country with a long and difficult past from its colonial foundations to contemporary authoritarianism. Join PEN Perth Committee Member, Karen Escobar, as she hosts this ‘Spotlight on Brazil’.
In this event, you will listen to readings of writing by Carlos Drummond, Cecília Meireles and Guimarães Rosa followed by conversation with local Brazilian intellectuals.
This event is part of PEN Perth’s ‘Spotlight’ series where we look at different nations around the world. With a focus on responsible freedom of expression, the audience will get a chance to hear political commentary, personal stories, and literary works.
RSVP: https://centreforstories.com/event/spotlight-on-brazil/
In collaboration with the School of Education and Curtin University’s Place Activation, Lunchtime Stories was a project that involved five international students sharing their experiences at Curtin, and around Western Australia. The five storytellers went through a series of workshops with Story Trainer, Michael Abercromby, where they learned to share their story with confidence in a succinct and engaging way. These stories were then shared live at lunchtime at the Creative Quarter, as part of Curtin’s commitment to activating underutilised space.
Faydra Nada Miranda, or Dira to her Aussie friends, shares her story of learning and studying abroad in the United Kingdom. Born and raised in Indonesia, Dira reflects on the cultural differences between Indonesia, England, and Australia. She shares her thoughts about stepping out of her comfort zone and finding new friends in unexpected places during exchange at Curtin University.
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COMING UP AT THE CENTRE FOR STORIES
Bread & Butter - When Someone Says You Can’t Do It, Do It Twice and Take Pictures – September 26, 2019
Tami Xiang is a Perth based Chinese-Australian artist and academic scholar. She has a Master of Fine Arts from the University of Western Australia and is currently undertaking a PhD by research. She has won international photography awards and been the recipient of an Australian Postgraduate Awards scholarship. Tami’s work has been exhibited in Australia, Mainland China, France, Taiwan and the U.S. Her work has been published by the New York Times, Eye of Photography, and Artlink.
Join us at Bread & Butter to hear from Tami and enjoy home-cooked Southern Chinese food.
Tickets: https://centreforstories.com/event/bread-butter-tami-xiang/
Yirga Gelaw Woldeyes was born in the holy town of Lalibela, Ethiopia. He is a writer, researcher and poet, using his native language of Amharic to reflect on Ethiopia’s history of loss and resilience. On 25 April 2019, Yirga shared his story at Bread & Butter.
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COMING UP AT THE CENTRE FOR STORIES
Life Writing with Rosemary Stevens – September 14- November 2, 2019
This 7-week course offers an intimate, safe and relaxed environment in which to begin, or reinvigorate, your life story. What form will the story take? How should you tell it? Where to begin and end? These questions are some of the threads that will be teased out and woven into the unique pattern that is your story. We will start with small, manageable details accessed through the five senses, and combine creative imagination with memory and research to unlock character, narrative and theme.
Tickets: https://centreforstories.com/event/life-writing-with-rosemary-stevens-2/
Ron Bradfield Junior is a saltwater fella from Bardi Country but grew up in Geraldton, WA. He now calls Whadjuk Boodjah his home. On 20 March 2019, Ron shared his story at Bread & Butter for World Storytelling Day.
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COMING UP AT THE CENTRE FOR STORIES
Bread & Butter with Zenatalla Ibrahim – August 29, 2019
Bread & Butter is a monthly dinner and storytelling event designed to make you think deeply about social issues. This month we will be joined by Zenatalla Ibrahim. Zenatalla is near completion of her dental degree at the University of Western Australia. She’s passionate about accessible dentistry, rural healthcare and providing services to those in need. She is well known for using her voice to speak on intersectional feminist issues, featuring in TEDxPerth 2018, discussing the empowerment of the modern Muslim woman. Join us to hear from Zenatalla and enjoy home-cooked Egyptian food.
Tickets: https://centreforstories.com/event/bread-butter-zenatalla-ibrahim/
Tammy Bux is a strategist by day and storyteller by night. She is passionate about encouraging people to celebrate their challenges and triumphs through storytelling. She loves how sharing stories allows us to open our hearts and minds and deeply connect with one another. On 29 November 2018, Tammy shared her story at Bread & Butter.
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COMING UP AT THE CENTRE FOR STORIES
Spotlight on Indonesia – August 22, 2019
Indonesia is a country with a depth and breadth of diversity which never fails to surprise. At ‘Spotlight on Indonesia’, we will hear from Perth residents Annette Wiguna, Kevin Ng and Martha Weruing. They will share their different experiences as people of Indonesian background, interwoven with political commentary, cultural observation and social history. They will also read selected works from Indonesian writers including Zeffrey Alkatiri, Eka Kurniawan and Lily Yulianti Farid, followed by a question and answer session.
‘Spotlight on Indonesia’ is part of PEN Perth’s ‘Spotlight’ series where we focus on the contemporary plight of writers, artists and journalists in countries experiencing hardship and how that might affect responsible freedom of expression, media censorship, and political interference. Please join us and help continue our work for press freedom.
Tickets: https://centreforstories.com/event/spotlight-on-indonesia/
Matthew and Daniel Bacon are two remarkable young natural storytellers bound to leave you with a lasting impression, and many laughs along the way. They tell stories about self-love, identity, and queer resilience. On March 29 2018, Matt and Dan shared their stories at Bread & Butter.
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COMING UP AT THE CENTRE FOR STORIES
Literary Mixers: Kelly Van Nelson and Scott Patrick Mitchell – August 8, 2019
Hear debut authors and writers paired with established authors talk candidly about their journeys to publication: their highs and lows, friends lost, and amount of wine and chocolate consumed during the writing process. Authors will confess to their innermost fears and share their vulnerabilities. Join Kelly Van Nelson and Scott Patrick Mitchell for an illuminating discussion on what pushes them to write, from ideas to opinions, to personal experiences.
Tickets: https://centreforstories.com/event/literary-mixers-kelly-van-nelson-and-scott-patrick-mitchell/
Sandi Parsons considers her guardianship of gifted lungs one of her many victories in her ongoing battle with Cystic Fibrosis. She was 38 when she underwent a double lung transplant. On 28 June 2018, Sandi shared her story at Bread & Butter.
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COMING UP AT THE CENTRE FOR STORIES
Fem Book Club – August 21, 2019
Fem Book Club is an introduction to a diverse range of texts by women about women. Through informal conversation about each text we will focus on the manifold experiences of being a woman through different moments in history and across varying communities. During this session of Fem Book Club, we’ll be discussing Melanie Cheng’s Room for a Stranger.
RSVP: https://centreforstories.com/event/fem-book-club-room-for-a-stranger/
Roaring 90's is a collection of stories from our community elders collected throughout 2018. This collection of stories features the memories of yesteryear; accounts of war, racism, technological triumph, assimilation and social change.
Vern Gooch is not quite 90, but his story was so special that we thought we’d make an exception. He was 86 when this story was recorded. Vern is a survivor of the Holocaust, having fled Germany in 1938 with his immediate family in to seek refuge in Australia. Here, he shares his memories of Germany before he left, and what it was like growing up in Australia.
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COMING UP AT THE CENTRE FOR STORIES
Bread & Butter: Not Yet Perfect – July 25, 2019
Bread & Butter is a monthly dinner and storytelling event designed to make you think deeply about social issues. Lucy Aboagye is a multi disciplinary artist with a desire to cultivate community, inspire people, and help shape culture through creativity and the the power of words. Having worked with at risk youth for a number of years, Lucy began to see the power of creativity, community and conversation, as it allowed her to create connections with her students and others in her community. On the menu for this evening is home-cooked Ghanaian food.
Tickets: https://centreforstories.com/event/bread-butter-not-yet-perfect/
Roaring 90's is a collection of stories from our community elders collected throughout 2018. This collection of stories features the memories of yesteryear; accounts of war, racism, technological triumph, assimilation and social change.
Doug Sedgwick was 91 when this story was recorded. He shares his memories of Perth and Subiaco in the old days and reflects on his life: the destructive reality of war, technological advances that changed the world, and his own experiences with love and loss.
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COMING UP AT THE CENTRE FOR STORIES
The Big Issue - Readings from the Fiction Edition – August 9, 2019
The Big Issue is one of Australia’s best loved magazines and organisations. With a focus on housing and social justice, they cover great stories about interesting people from all walks of life. The Centre for Stories has partnered with The Big Issue to present an evening of readings from the 2019 fiction volume. Local literary figures will bring the page to life and your ticket will include a copy of the magazine. Join us for a fun, uplifting, and quality celebration of Australian fiction!
Tickets: https://centreforstories.com/event/the-big-issue-readings-from-the-fiction-edition/
Roaring 90's is a collection of stories from our community elders collected throughout 2018. This collection of stories features the memories of yesteryear; accounts of war, racism, technological triumph, assimilation and social change.
Azra Hodgkinson was 91-year-old when this story was collected. She is a Pakistani woman from Lahore. In this interview, she reflects on the many changes in her life, most of which were out of her hands. Azra is a charitable woman and continues to live surrounded by loving family.
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COMING UP AT THE CENTRE FOR STORIES
In Conversation: Mark Smith & Alicia Tuckerman – July 16, 2019
YA authors Alicia Tuckerman and Mark Smith explore issues of sacrifice and morality in response to Mark’s latest release, Land of Fences. They will discuss crafting young protagonists with the fierce tenacity of Kas, Finn and their friends, and the idea that in fiction (and life), teens are increasingly responsible for not only saving themselves but also the worlds they live in. Is dystopian fiction merely entertainment, or is it training?
Tickets: https://centreforstories.com/event/marksmithandaliciatuckerman/
Writing YA with Mark Smith – July 17, 2019
Writing in any genre is difficult, but writing for Young Adults has specific challenges. How do you create believable teenage characters? Why is setting so crucial to engaging a young audience? How do you strike a balance between action and reflection? And how do you get the pacing right? In this workshop, Mark will help you hone your skills in writing for the most difficult audience of all – young readers itching to get back to their screens!
Tickets: https://centreforstories.com/event/writing-ya-with-mark-smith/
Roaring 90's is a collection of stories from our community elders collected throughout 2018. This collection of stories features the memories of yesteryear; accounts of war, racism, technological triumph, assimilation and social change.
Lois Griffiths was 94 when this interview was recorded. She shares her memories of the Second World War, the devastation it caused, and life thereafter. At just shy of 95, her memories of early life in South Perth are as fresh as ever. We thanks Lois for sharing her story.
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COMING UP AT THE CENTRE FOR STORIES
Liminal Workshop – July 12, 2019
Editor of Liminal Magazine, Leah Jing McIntosh, will be visiting the Centre for Stories in July. During her time here, she will present a day long workshop on starting a journal. This will pay attention to publication, photography, interviews, grants, events, and community.
Drawing on her work with Liminal and its success in telling Asian Australian stories, Leah will be able to help local and emerging practitioners find creative ways to help them as editors, writers, and photographers. It is suitable for a wide range of people and will be a way for others to learn from a nationally recognised leader in the field.
Tickets: https://centreforstories.com/event/liminal-workshop/
Roaring 90's is a collection of stories from our community elders collected throughout 2018. This collection of stories features the memories of yesteryear; accounts of war, racism, technological triumph, assimilation and social change.
Michael Tsolakis was 96 when this interview was recorded. He shares his story of coming from Greece to Australia in 1938, and the outpouring of love from his mother and community that got him there.
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COMING UP AT THE CENTRE FOR STORIES
Saga Sisterhood – June 22, 2019
Saga Sisterhood is a transformative performance project for women from communities who identify as South Asian that come from non-performer backgrounds but all have something to say about love, friendship, belonging, family and identity. It has emerged from a creative development led by Sukhjit Kaur Khalsa with the valuable storytelling training by Sisonke Msimang and directing from Shirley Van Sanden.
Tickets: https://centreforstories.com/event/saga-sisterhood/