8 November, 2025
hawkesbury-gazette-celebrates-local-voices-through-poetry

In a heartfelt initiative, the Hawkesbury Gazette has launched a dedicated space for local poets to showcase their work, connecting the community through the art of poetry. This initiative, known as “Poets Corner,” aims to highlight the unique experiences and emotions that define life in the Hawkesbury region, offering a platform for voices that resonate with the community’s spirit.

Poetry captures sentiments that statistics and headlines often overlook. It reflects the heart, humor, and resilience of the people. The Gazette recognizes this power and seeks to honor those who transform everyday moments into evocative art. Local poets express their observations, from the gentle rustle of gum leaves to memories of floods and fires, reminding us that community is fostered not just through gatherings but also through shared reflections and emotions.

Voices from the Hawkesbury

The inaugural contributions to Poets Corner include works from esteemed local poets, each offering a glimpse into their interpretations of life in Hawkesbury.

Kerryn Coombs-Valeontis, a poet from Maralya, shares a piece that emphasizes the interconnectedness of all living beings. She writes, “Listen carefully, careful, and this spirit e come in your feeling and you will feel it…anyone that. My body the same as you.” Coombs-Valeontis invites readers to recognize the deep bond shared with the land and its creatures, highlighting a universal connection that transcends individual experiences.

Another contributor, Bill Neidjie, reflects on the theme of emotion in his work, “Story about Feeling.” His poignant words resonate with the importance of empathy and love, encouraging readers to embrace their feelings and the world around them.

Additionally, Merle Lester from Kurrajong Heights offers two touching pieces that explore the themes of light and hope. In one poem, she contemplates the significance of being “just one small lantern in the darkness,” acknowledging how even the smallest acts can illuminate the lives of others. In another, she expresses a sense of relief as she finds solace in the beauty of nature, stating, “the crazy antics of the humans for a split second no longer troubles me.”

Contributing to the Community

The Hawkesbury Gazette encourages more residents to participate in this initiative by submitting their poems. This call for contributions underscores the importance of community involvement and the desire to amplify local voices.

For those interested in sharing their work, submissions can be sent to [email protected]. By fostering this creative outlet, the Gazette aims to keep the spirit of the Hawkesbury alive through the written word.

Through Poets Corner, the Hawkesbury Gazette not only celebrates local talent but also cultivates a sense of belonging among residents. By giving space to poetry, the Gazette highlights the profound impact that words can have in weaving the fabric of community life.