By Christine Sykes

After moving to Stanwell Park over nine years ago, I became an award-winning author.

My third book, The Tap Cats of the Sunshine Coast, is being launched at Coledale Community Centre on Saturday, 6 August from 3pm to 5pm.

Caroline Baum, well-known writer, journalist, former broadcaster and ambassador for the Older Women’s Network (OWN) in NSW, will be doing an in conversation with me about The Tap Cats of the Sunshine Coast.

The idea for the novel came to me in a very personal way. My Auntie Peg, who lived on the Sunshine Coast, took up tap dancing when she retired and it gave her a new lease on life. I attended several rehearsals and performances of Auntie Peg’s group over the years. When I retired,
I followed Auntie Peg’s lead and also took up tap dancing! Something I continue to do to this day.

The Tap Cats of the Sunshine Coast is a moving and heart-warming story of secrets, love and the power of friendship.

The story centres around Sofia, Carol and Bonnie, three very different women who have known each other for a lifetime. They discover
that even friends you think you know best can still have secrets.

My acclaimed memoir Gough and Me: My journey from Cabramatta to China and beyond was featured at the opening night of the South Coast Writers Festival in June in a session with Jane Caro.

My first book, The Changing Room, which won an award, was inspired by my work as a volunteer with Dress for Success Sydney, a styling and support service for women entering the workforce.

I am grateful to the South Coast Writers Centre for hosting the launch of The Tap Cats of the Sunshine Coast and encourage people come to help me celebrate and to support the wonderful work of the Writers Centre.

Registration for the event is $5 and can be made at https://events.humanitix.com/book-launch-the-tap-cats