Poet launches first book

Pearl Beach resident Ms Gillian Telford will launch her first collection of poems "Moments of Perfect Poise" at the Pearl Beach Memorial Hall on Saturday, September 27.

The collection of poems includes Ms Telford's own work and previously published work from literary journals and anthrologies.

Ms Telford was born in England and moved to Australia, after completing her secondary education, where she worked as a speech pathologist, teacher and administrator.

"My childhood in England has definitely influenced my poetry," Ms Telford said.

"The way a poem sounds is very important to me and I think there are many unconscious rhythms in my head from those early influences.

"I was fortunate too, in that I had wonderful teachers and parents who loved books and music."

Ms Telford has been writing poetry since 1991, shortly after moving from Sydney to Pearl Beach.

"I've now lived in Pearl Beach for 10 years - I drove in one day and fell in love with it and just sold up in Sydney and moved here, even though I then had to commute for six years," Ms Telford said.

"It was the best decision I've ever made and the combination of sea, beach and forest definitely inspired me to start writing poetry, both regularly and seriously."

"That might not have continued if I hadn't been fortunate enough to be welcomed into Central Coast Poets Inc, who meet at Gosford."

Ms Telford said she has been able to extend and develop her work through the poetry group's regular monthly workshops and introductions to other senior poets and tutors.

"There are many talented writers on the Peninsula and I also work with a small local group - we all have very busy lives with other commitments, so we keep each other going," Ms Telford said.

"One of my favourite poems in the book is called "Winter Solstice" and I like it because it's about contentment, about living with forest all around you and it encapsulates one of those 'moments of perfect poise' that you find living here."

Ms Telford's youngest daughter Simone and Pearl Beach artist Robyn Bellamy designed the cover images and design of the book.

"Moments of Perfect Poise" is published by Adelaide publisher Ginninderra Press.

The book launch will take place from 2pm.

For further information about attending the book launch or purchasing the book, phone 4342 0476.

Clare Graham, 11 Sep 2008 Press release, 28 Aug 2008 Gillian Telford, Pearl Beach