Human trafficking – a globalised travesty

Have just finished reading “Trafficked” by Kathleen Maltzahn. I’d tracked down the book because I was doing some research into the sex slave trade for my next novel. “Trafficked” is a compelling and disturbing read about the horrific treatment of young women brought into Australia, often illegally, to work in brothels where they then have Continue reading


Fleur McDonald blogging on Bronwyn Parry’s Blog

Contemporary Suspense with a love story. You can find two of my favourite Australian authors today on Bronwyn Parry’s blog. If you love suspense, action, Australia and a love story woven through a believable plot, then these writers are for you! Fleur’s debut book, Red Dust, was released earlier this year. Bronwyn’s second book, Dark Continue reading


Love those early mornings

If there’s one thing I miss most when I’m away from home (apart from husband and hound) it’s an early morning walk on the beach. The serenity of the ocean, laying the first footprints down the sand, watching the sun crack the horizon wide open with orange fire – each day is different, each sunrise Continue reading


‘Plastiki’ – Message in a bottle?

Check out ‘Plastiki’ at – http://www.theplastiki.com/lo-fi/ – It’s a catamaran built from recycled plastic drink bottles and set to sail from the USA to Sydney. I remember going to see the Kon-tiki when I was very young so when I saw the name Plastiki in an ABC article I had to read further. Plastic Boats aren’t Continue reading


Diplomacy or honesty?

I chuckled my way through this article over morning coffee. “Diplomacy not a strong suit for Britain’s ambassadors as they head home.” The Australian has a story on the valedictory letters sent home by retiring ambassadors. Oh, but I’d love to see some more of them!! I think the Brits are wonderful (I’m married to Continue reading


Last day at Varuna :-(

The last day. Tomorrow the alarm will wake me at 05.15 and I’ll start the long trek home to the north. For the first few hours I’ll have company. David is catching a flight home as well. He’s headed for Harare and Africa. His journey will only be half complete when I’m home, hand in Continue reading


Varuna – LongLines programme

Wow, I’m here. After the weekend from hell, Varuna is a slice of paradise. Highlights of my weekend included forgetting to take my reading glasses to work and then discovering my boss had turned up to do a routine check of my performance and I could barely read the simulator screens, let alone my notes… Continue reading