Tell us a bit about yourself and your interests and hobbies

I’m originally a Perth girl but have called Sydney home on and off for over a decade, travelling for work and family. In 2021 I opened a bookshop in Perth called ‘Open Book’. It was a long-held dream of mine and has been the catalyst for other creative paths. 

Reading is, obviously, my biggest hobby as well as writing. After years of helping others option material for the screen it is something I’ve started doing myself which has been a fun challenge and is a meeting of the minds for my two biggest passions – books and film.

I pride myself on being a great mum and friend. Above all else it’s the relationships in my life that bear the most fruit and so I spend a lot of time watering those. Quality time with my kids and partner, Tom, is my happy place.

How did you first encounter the work of Stella?

I first discovered the Stella Prize in 2015 when Emily Bitto won for her spectacular novel The Strays. Later, when I opened my bookshop I learnt more about the amazing work Stella does for thewriting community here in Australia and I try to read as many books as I can on the shortlist each year. The judges of the Stella Prize are total tastemakers and I love that each year we get a new list ofincredible books to devour. 

What has been your most rewarding experience as Ambassador of Stella?

It’s an honour to have the opportunity to promote and represent the Stella Prize in Western Australia. We’re a state of big readers and deep thinkers, often underestimated in that regard—and I believe that’s one of our superpowers. As a representative of our community, I’m excited to share Stella titles far and wide, championing the incredible work of women and non-binary authors.

What do you see as Stella’s role in the Australian cultural Sector?

I believe we have a responsibility to remind Australia of the incredible talent within our country. As a bookseller, I see firsthand just how many books are published each month, and it’s all too easy for remarkable novels to get lost in the noise. That’s why I think the Stella Prize is so vital—it allows us to amplify these voices and stories in meaningful and creative ways.

What role have books and reading played in your life?

Reading has shaped who I am at every stage of my life. As a child, I read voraciously and found joy in emulating my favorite authors through my own writing. Over the years, my reading has expanded across genres, deepening my appreciation for diverse stories and perspectives. Now, I use books as a tool to teach my children compassion and empathy, sharing with them the transformative power ofstorytelling.