“Battered but not Beaten”    –   LAUNCHED TODAY!

TRC Mayor Peter Taylor

Officially launched today Thursday, 15th December by TRC Mayor Peter Taylor to a room full of approximately 40 people who contributed to the book and 20 support guests.
Special guests included, Deputy Mayor Graham Moon, Gatton Shire, Inspector Steve McKinerney, Emergency Services, Derek Tuffield, Lifeline attended with media, ABC and Win TV.

Writers@Work President Keith Meredith-Bramwell & Breanda Cross

“Battered but not Beaten” People, Places and Perceptions of the 2011 Toowoomba & Lockyer Valley Flood.

In the time following the floods, friendships were made, reputations gained, gratitude was given and stories filtered through of heroics and selflessness. Young and old found novel ways to raise money or ‘do their bit,’ to help. The members of Writers at Work, Toowoomba chose to compile a history. The unenviable convener Breanda Cross undertook this HUGE job with amazing determination. In an editorial at the front of the book Breanda states, “During the last five months I have been allowed to share peoples lives, when they were most vulnerable, and had the opportunity to meet face-to-face with many of the many inspirational people I had read and heard about. And now, you have the opportunity too. The floods had a thousand stories – and these are just some of them.”

From left- Breanda Cross-BBNB convener, Carmel Rowley-Author, Far right-Charlene Smith- Writer extraordinaire, second right Davida Schemioneck-Hanger on!

The Contents, over 70 contributors, victims, rescuers, emergency staff or volunteers have given personal stories, and poems, dealing with their experience of the January floods.

While Writers at Work acknowledge the heartbreak and suffering of those who lost loved ones, animals, homes and effects, during the floods. This compilation is intended to pay tribute to the Aussie Battler Spirit that has risen above it. Should any proceeds accrue, they will be donated to Rotary District 9630 for their Flood Disaster Rebuilding Fund.

Congratulations to Writers at Work on a wonderful achievement, and special congratulations must go to Breanda Cross. Should you wish to purchase a copy of “Battered but not Beaten” email Breanda at toowoombastories@gmail.com