‘I tried to become immersed in the popular culture of the time – music, film, celebrities – to tap into what I imagined to be the psyche and to get a sense of ‘texture’ or zeitgeist.’

‘There are three steps for using an author platform – discoverability, which we’ve already nailed (congratulations), engagement and sales.’

‘A compelling podcast needs to be authentic and showcase something people can identify with.’

‘You’re writing about real people, people you know, perhaps your family, your ex-husband, your children. How do you do this? It can be a challenge but we have to rise to it.’

‘The best memoirs are not ‘lessons’, but rather quests.’

‘Now is the perfect time to start blogging, the tools and platforms are so much easier. Most are free.’

‘Entertain yourself first. Never write what you think a kid or teen might like if it doesn’t genuinely humour or entertain or thrill or sadden you.’

‘No one knows quite what ‘Australian comics’ are, and everyone is eager to figure it out for themselves, which is a wonderful place to be creatively.’

Portia chats to us about pursuing her deep passion for regional arts development and uncovering budding talents.