Some 25 people cheered and celebrated Catherine Bateson’s fellowship completion with the May Gibbs Children’s Literature Trust. Catherine shared her research findings with writers, friends and May Gibbs supporters. Catherine Bateson is the author of 15 books for young readers, and has twice won the CBCA Book of the Year, as well as a Queensland Premier’s Literary Award.

Her four week creative-time residency was to research and draft a new YA novel set in Brisbane during World War II. Many were amazed with Catherine’s findings during her talk. (No historical facts can be disclosed at this time.) Listening to her discussion some 2-3 years prior to her YA book release was valuable to under this prior-process. Catherine was appreciative and grateful for the support of the May Gibbs committee.

State co-ordinator Judith Russell said all went according to plan, with access to research facilities and Catherine’s excitement at what she discovered. Also the high tea was with cucumber sandwiches, fresh baked scones and banana muffins were well received, as well as the gluten free option. 

The next May Gibbs Fellow will be Julie Hunt, a fantasy writer. The completion of her four-week fellowship residency will culminate in a high-tea on Sunday 24 June, 2018 at the State Library of Queensland, 1B at 2pm.