This issue also includes the winning poems from the Kathryn Purnell Poetry Prize 2017, which was judged by Jennifer Compton.

Awarded for a poem of no more than 50 lines, this biennial award is named in honour of a much-loved member of the Society. Kathryn conducted poetry workshops in her home for members, who greatly benefited from her expertise and mentoring.

Kathryn Purnell was born in Canada and lived in France, England, Scotland, Egypt, Indonesia and Africa. When she married an Australian she moved permanently to Melbourne. Kathryn continued her education at the University of Melbourne and became a creative writing tutor. Her poetry and prose was published in many magazines and broadcast on ABC radio. She was an editor in the Luna collective and won many awards for her work.

After her death, the Society set up the Kathryn Purnell Poetry Prize in her honour. It is open to SWW members in all branches.