AustLit

'I worked for the ABC for thirteen years, during the 1970s and 1980s, mainly as a producers-directors assistant in television, so back then I understood something of its ethos, although it's obviously evolved a different ethos since then. I left in 1986 to finish my studies and train for the priesthood.' (Publication abstract)

'Although she loved her nieces and nephews, it was when she turned thirty-nine that driving young children around in her car seemed to make her nervous - a tightening in the stomach. "Aunty Helen, would you like to take Naomi to see The Muppets? Are you free?" Always these requests from one of her sisters looking tired and desperate - one of her younger siblings, they used to be so close - and Helen would force herself to make the effort to be the good aunty. The responsibility of passengers in her car always made her anxious. She was anxious about one thing or the other most of the time, but wanted to appear selfless and generous-spirited. Her availability, or non-availability, was noted, itemised, either in her favour, or against her. She didn't want to be labelled self-obsessed. She had entered an era when the nicest thing a person could say to her was, "You're a fabulous aunty. The kids love you."...' (Publication abstract)