Toolangi

[David Campbell]

Just back from Toolangi...thanks to all for the congratulations. Heather didn't mention that she also entertained us on Saturday with a couple of her poems, including the fun piece for kids 'Our Pa', which is posted on this site.

Unfortunately, Heather couldn't stay for today and missed out on a fascinating tour of The Singing Gardens conducted by none other than C. J. Dennis himself (aka Dr Stephen Whiteside), assisted by Banjo Paterson (Jim Brown, with guitar) and Henry Lawson (yours truly). Stephen did a brilliant job in character as tour guide, providing a wealth of historical info about Dennis' home and background and leading a conversation with Jim and I which kept us well and truly on our toes as we tried to remember to stay in character...interrupted by the occasional helicopter flying overhead. C. J. explained away this phenomenon as a rather large local dragonfly. Anyway, we presented a range of poems from the three famous gentlemen and then Jenny Markwell chimed in as Dorothea Mackellar. Those there were most appreciative and gained a terrific insight into a really beautiful place. If you've never been to Toolangi it's well worth keeping in mind on any visit to Victoria. It's not far from Healesville (where the sanctuary is), and The Singing Gardens provide an excellent stop for Devonshire tea...the best scones in the southern hemisphere!

Cheers
David

[vwalla]

Congrats to all involved in this day. ie Participants and Organisers alike.
A great promotion of CJ Dennis.
Sounds like we missed a great show.
I was really chuffed to be awarded an HC for my poem in the Adults writing for Children section as I wasn't given a very good report from my Grandchildren.
eg "Pretty lame" and "Kids these days aren't interested in that rubbish, Grannie.!"
Oh well ! I will keep on trying despite the family.
Val W

[Terry]

Congratulations to you all and a extra for Wendy on her first award - Well done.

Terry

[Stephen Whiteside]

Thanks, David. As suggested, it was all very much thrown together at the last minute, but I like to think we made up in enthusiasm for what we lacked in preparation! It was actually the brainchild of Jan Williams, owner of 'The Singing Gardens'. She thought the three of us were up to it and, with retrospect, I feel I can say that she was right!

One thing I did learn over the weekend was that, although the entire Dennis homestead was destroyed by fire in 1965, Mrs Dennis' wash-house, a stand-alone structure, did not burn, and is indeed today still standing. It is currently in rather a sorry state, but its restoration strikes me as a very worthwhile future project.

[JennyM]

We are finally home from our trip to the C.J.Dennis Festival at Toolangi. We had a wonderful time. Jan Williams, Stephen Whiteside, David Campbell and Jim Brown should all be congratulated on terrific jobs. Also congratulations to all those wonderful writers who won prizes in the comp.

[Zondrae]

G'day Jenny,

How long ago was the festival? I haven't received anything yet. Nor from at least two other comps in which I received lesser awards.

[Stephen Whiteside]

Congratulations and thanks to Jenny, too, who did a wonderful job in character as Dorothea Mackellar, as well as reciting 'My Country', 'Paw' by CJ Dennis (a little heard classic), a poem by David Campbell, and others.

Zondrae, I'm sorry you haven't heard anything. I think something similar happened last year. I can tell you that your poem 'Just a Touch of Rain' was Highly Commended in the 'Song of Rain' themed category. Congratulations! It has been included in the book for this year, and I would imagine that you would receive a copy in due course.

[Zondrae]

Thanks Stephen,

Yes, you are right. The same thing did happen last year. I know the organisers are busy and have far more important things to do than send my certificate but a simple email would be nice. I did receive my copy of the book in due course last year. I seem to be forever waiting for the postman.