Poets launch anthology

Central Coast Poets Inc will celebrate National Poetry Week by launching its latest anthology at Pearl Beach Memorial Hall next month.

Competition coordinator Ms Andrea Cook said Henry Kendall Poetry Competition entries formed the basis of the anthology, with additional poems by Central Coast Poets members included.

"Competition judge Dr Michael Sharkey selected the winners and runners-up, and these are featured in the anthology," Ms Cook said.

"Although hosting the competition and compiling the anthology every two years involves a lot of work for our small community group, we are always delighted to attract such a high standard of entries.

"The anthology also provides many poets with the chance to have their work published, including CCPI members.

"This year two of our members feature strongly in anthology design.

"The anthology's title Off the Path comes from a poem by a long-term CCPI member Kelly Blaney-Murphy.

"Kelly will also read selected poems at the launch while another member Narelle Grace undertook the cover photography for this edition, as well as for the last one.

"We are privileged to have the acclaimed poet Jean Kent to officially launch the anthology this year.

"Four years ago we had a very successful launch at the Peninsula Theatre.

"Peninsula residents have always been strong supporters of our work, and several of our members live there."

The launch will be held on Diamond Rd, Pearl Beach, from 1.30pm on Saturday, September 11.

Ms Cook said everyone was welcome to attend and asked interested participants to RSVP by September 5, to 4342 0476 or email gilltel@optusnet.com.au

Press release, 10 Aug 2010 Gillian Telford, Central Coast Poets Inc