Territory writers pen their way to national stage
Three Indigenous Northern Territory writers are among six winners who have been awarded prestigious Varuna Writing Fellowships, giving them the opportunity to develop their work and share more Territory stories with national audiences.
- Rosalyn Brenda Boko – family story-keeper, storyteller, and founding member of the Ngunytjuku Mamaku Tjukurpa Kanyini Wanka (Keeping Mother’s and Father’s Stories Alive) group.
- Jasmin McGaughey – Torres Strait Islander and African American writer, author of Moonlight and Dust and the Little Ash series with Ash Barty.
- Lisa Stefanoff – writer, researcher and curator who has worked with desert artists and Aboriginal community-controlled organisations for more than two decades, co-founding Curatorium Collective.
The fellowships provide Territory writers with the time, space and professional guidance to strengthen their craft.
During their residencies, Rosalyn Boko and Lisa Stefanoff will collaborate on a joint project continuing the work of Rosalyn’s late mother, artist Margaret Nampitjinpa Boko, and the Ngunytjuku Mamaku Tjukurpa Kanyini Wanka group, using writing, art and storytelling to preserve and share family stories.
2024 Fellowship recipient Marie Elena Ellis said Varuna was a place to write, think and be inspired.
“I’d encourage Aboriginal language speakers to experience Varuna. The staff are friendly and make sure your stay is 100% perfect, calm and happy, Ms Ellis said.
“The Arts NT program gave me the opportunity to express my poems. Thank you. Apmere Mwarre, Ayeye Intelityeke. A good place to write your story.”
Minister for Arts, Jinson Charls said the fellowship program ensures Territory voices continue to be heard.
“The Northern Territory is home to a diverse and talents community of writers, and Varuna provides the perfect environment for them to refine their craft, build networks and contribute to Australia’s cultural landscape.”
Other Residential Fellows are:
- Roland Bull – NT-based writer, comedian and doctor focusing on life writing, health and LGBTIQA+ issues.
- Amanda Grace – high school English teacher, former children’s book editor, and speculative fiction writer based in Alice Springs.
- A’Mhara McKey – writer, librarian, and mother of three, with work shortlisted for the ASA/HQ Fiction Prize (2024), The Banjo Prize (2023) and she won the NT Literary Award in the short story category in both 2022 and 2023.
The NT Government has committed $60,000 over three years to support the annual program.
