Why I support Stella: Chips Mackinolty
In our new series with Stella Supporters, we interviewed donor Chips Mackinolty about his inherited love of books, and why he gives regularly to Stella.
What role have books and reading played in your life?
Immense. My earliest memories are those being surrounded by books, from shelves of books, from dictionaries to cheap paperback thrillers lining the walls even at crawling around the floor! I started reading at an absurdly young age, from Agatha Christie to George Bernard Shaw. Twice a year my mum would take me and my sister into the city to splurge on books! And there were also books as major presents on birthdays and Christmas. Books are part of my life.
After my mother, Judy, died we gave her huge collection of Australian women writers — which she diligently bought — to a public collection. So it is something that has outlived her!
How did you first encounter the work of Stella?
I think at the urging of Kaz Cooke! She linked me to the Stella website, and the possibility of a regular donation. Since then, of course, I have followed the Stella Prize.
Over the last four years I have assisted in the weekly newsletter of Alice Springs locally owned bookshop, Red Kangaroo Books (a fabulous shop). Each year we have promoted the Stella’s as a vital part of the Australian book world.
You’re one of Stella’s longest-standing regular donors. What motivates you to give, and why do you feel ongoing support is important as a donor?
A no brainer, really. I spend perhaps $50 a month on books to read, so why not chuck in a few extra dollars to Stella? Not just in memory of my mother, but also as a tribute to Australia’s fabulous women writers.
As well, a regular small donation is painless!
