Today, the Vic SCBWI quarterly meeting was in Flinders, on the Mornington Peninsula. The weather was glorious and I was there early enough to take  a few photos. 
The meeting was held in an old church hall and was well attended, particularly given how tricky it can be to get city bods to travel beyond the boundaries.
Wendy Orr talked about the challenges of writing the third Nim book after two movies with two different main characters … each of whom ‘became’ Nim in their film. 
Serena Geddes talked about being a full time illustrator, the ups the downs and the in betweens. She talked about the support of her parents being offered in very different ways but both being instructive in her drive and success. 
After a luscious afternoon tea of tea, passionfruit sponge and chocolate cake, our third speaker was Jen Storer who talked about creating quirky characters. 
It was fascinating to hear that both Wendy and Jen’s writing is character- rather than plot-driven: once they have their character sorted, then the story can begin. 
A good meeting, as they always are. 

Sponge

Mushroom Reef, Flinders