Greg's career has focused on writing and expression, first as an English teacher, and later within corporate communications. Over many years, he has helped many families and people with their stories and memoirs. Greg was inspired to write a novel based in Far North Queensland, the scene of his first teaching post in the 1980s, when revisiting the region years later. His debut novel, 'Under Silkwood', was shortlisted for the Queensland Writers' Centre 2024 'Adaptable' program, and an excerpt from the novel was long-listed in the 2024 Sydney Hammond Memorial Short Story Award.
What inspired you to be a writer?
My mum. She taught me to read and write from around aged three. I was told books were treasure, for they were the Golden Books series. I’m inspired by many writers. There are times when story lines build and collide so well, I become concerned, sometimes afraid. For me, ‘The House of Sand of Fog,’ Andre Dubus III, is an inspirational example of a writer’s ability to hook and mesmerise a reader.
What prompted you to write 'Under Silkwood'?
‘Under Silkwood’ was inspired by a return visit to Far North Queensland (FNQ) where I lived in the 1980s. The verdant, humid environment is glorious, only partially conquered by the sugar industry. The novel is set in Silkwood, a tiny sugar farming hamlet, settled by many Sicilian immigrants. The brooding location, combined with the Italian passionate temperament provided ideal ingredients. I wrote the outline in a cabin at the idyllic Etty Bay Caravan Park, near Silkwood, where a cassowary foraged nearby. ‘Cassie’ made it into the novel.
Do you have any more books in the pipeline?
I’ve left Under Silkwood's conclusion somewhat open, so a sequel is possible, probable. I’m always jotting down potential storylines; usually after eavesdropping at Brisbane’s West End markets. Based on a personal experience in the 1990s, I’ve started a story of an Australian tourist in Ireland who has an encounter with the IRA.
What is your professional background?
Most of my career has been in communication. I have used my three university qualifications to an extent. My career began as a high school teacher, aged 19, in Far North Queensland. Later, I worked in politics, then in many public and private sector roles, with a recent stint in the Brisbane 2032 Olympics venues team.
Any advice you’d like to give to aspiring writers?
As a I recently signed first time author, I can only offer what’s worked for me – conviction and determination. At the end of my first draft, I invited the red pens. From my perspective, don’t invite critique too early; it can stifle creativity and dent confidence. I wrote my novel in secrecy, so there were no external pressures or expectations. If you’re bogged down, exercise; you’ll run home to jot down solutions.
Especially good advice I received was to concentrate on what builds layers, adds tension and momentum; don’t stop the narrative to describe a handsome dog
Who/what inspires you?
People who strive for their goals, without privilege, birthright, physical advantage, good health, the right skin and gender, and so on, never accepting defeat. Peter Carey, one of Australia’s most renowned authors, received rejections for over a decade, but kept writing and pitching. Wow!
What are your hobbies, interests and favourite books?
Interests and hobbies: Running and working within a small communications business needs my daily interest. Exercise of any form too, firstly, because it feeds the mind and imagination. As parents know, hobbies are usually taken over by children’s interests; my son’s, became mine. Bob the Builder, then Brisbane Broncos. Listening to creative ‘noise’ from Apple Mac Garage Band. Visits to Culture Kings to get the right ‘swag’. Then, Eminen. I wanted to give it up at Eminem but didn’t, surely, a definition of parental love. Now, writing fills my spare time.
How can readers contact you?
