Help Aunty Bea publish her book

Giinagay! My name is Aunty Bea Ballangarry . I’m a Gumbaynggirr Elder from the Mid-North Coast of NSW. I am a born storyteller, communicator, cultural knowledge holder and anchor for visiting Mob. From an early age, I have been a prolific writer and poet. Now as a Senior Gumbaynggirr Elder, I’m compelled to tell my life story - Shifting Skins.

I’m raising funds to help me develop my book, including travel to Broome with my editor to meet with a publisher to discuss publishing my memoirs. Funds raised will be used for travel expenses and costs related to book development, including a computer, a writing retreat and editing.

I don’t write for catharsis. I write to share my history, for my family and my culture. While I’ve been recognised with awards and accolades for my writing in the past, this isn’t what motivates me. I want to provide my family and kin group with a record and a deeper knowing of where they come from and their connection to Country.

I also want to provide the community more broadly with knowledge about the history of Gumbaynggirr people, through my life experiences. I’m able to engage with challenging issues with kindness and respect. I believe sharing my story helps you to know me. Then you and me becomes we. And we becomes us.

In May, I had a public reading of a draft chapter from Shifting Skins, at which my Grandson was on the door. Two days later, I asked if he’d be available for the next reading 27 July to which he responded “i believe i would be able to help out again nan xx, loved hearing some of your book, my history is in those chapters <3<3”. I wept reading this, knowing sharing my stories is meaningful to the next generation of my family.

I’ve spent my life supporting my community and now I’m asking my community to support me to tell my story. Your contribution will directly assist in maintaining and strengthening our cultural history for future generations.

I look forward to sharing with you all soon.

With thanks,

Aunty Bea

You're invited to hear two draft chapters of Shifting Skins Sat 27 July, 2pm at the Coffs Harbour Botanical Gardens. Get your tickets here.