AustLit

Printed on heavy glossy paper, the magazine was addressed to the potential and actual clientele of one of Sydney's leading hotels, the Wentworth. Its first editorial declared its aims as 'being typically Australian in atmosphere, cosmopolitan in interest, and filled with the best literary matter available. With this in view the services of Australian writers of distinction have been requisitioned, and pictorial perfection has practically been achieved through the magnificent work of Australian camera artists.' It published stories and poetry by writers such as Ethel Turner (q.v.), Rosemary Rees (q.v.), Blanche Singleton, Althea Dare, and Roderic Quinn (q.v.); photographs by H. H. Fishwick, Monte Luke, and May Moore; and cartoons by Harry Julius (q.v.). It carried articles and photographs of royalty and of stage and screen stars; discussed art, literature, music, and sport; and advised on 'Correct Wines for Dinner'. While it contained much advertorial matter on the Hotel -- including a series on Mrs Maclurcan's pets and another on her cookery book -- it also showcased Australia more generally as a tourist destination for the wealthy. The effects of the Great Depression on the hospitality industry were revealed in the dramatic reductions in advertised tariff for hotel rooms and services.