Guest Post: Elise K Ackers

Today I am pleased to welcome Elis K Ackers to my blog. When we talked about what theme the guest post should be on, the fact that we both started out living in other parts of Australia and ended up living here in Melbourne seemed a good place to start! I will be back later with my review of Elise's book, Forgotten.

Welcome Elise!

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Elise K. Ackers was born in Sydney. She has lived north of Brisbane, near Perth, on the New South Wales Central Coast and in the Blue Mountains west of Sydney, but it's Melbourne that has stolen her heart. Elise's first book, Small Town Storm, is set in the picturesque Olinda, in the Dandenong Ranges east of Melbourne; her second book, The Man Plan, is set near Port Phillip Bay, and her latest title, Unforgettable, is set on the construction site of Melbourne's cultural icon, Hamer Hall. Today she writes about where she finds her inspiration.

Anyone who's read my books or blurbs knows that my first three titles are set in Melbourne, Australia; and I don't think anyone who's visited or lived here could blame me for that. Voted as one of the world's most livable cities and known for its culture, lifestyle and eccentricities, I'm a big fan of the place I've called home for the last four years.

View of the new Hamer Hall across the river

I have a day job in the city, and whilst I may grumble about the commute some days, it's worth it. Because I get to stroll down intimate laneways featuring public artwork, discover hidden bars and restaurants, and sit in any of the hundreds of public places, and just be.

It's a city which constantly delights, and often takes me by surprise.

Last year there was a 13-metre high Gladioli bouquet installed near Arts Centre Melbourne to welcome back the fabulously renovated Hamer Hall. A few weeks ago I had the joy of walking through an incredible 'building' on my way to the train station: a structure made of more than ten tonnes of willow tree saplings and sticks. I look out my window and I see an evolving skyline, brave architecture and stunning heritage facades. It feels like there's something new every week, and it's a city where change and daring are embraced.

All of this combines to make for a stirring, creative environment. Being an author who is inspired by place, I love this city. And not just for setting. There are some fantastic places to write.

The Reading Room

The State Library La Trobe Reading Room is certainly in my top five places, with its 35-metre high, spectacular dome ceiling. However, for the writer who's easily distracted, I'd probably advise against it. It's become quite the tourist destination. The Moat under the Wheeler Centre building on Little Londsdale Street is a bit of a winner, and the laneway cafes are great for corner booths and tiny laptops.

I'm discovering new places to write every day, and I'm having a great time doing it. Which makes me wonder: where are your favourite places to write or read when away from home?


**Photos of Hamer Hall and State Library were taken by me.