Anne McEncroe, winner of The Society’s Writer’s Grant for 2021 was educated at Stella Maris College Manly. Her working career was secretarial, in legal and later advertising/public relations.  As a mature age student, Anne graduated in History and Philosophy of Science from Sydney University in 1994 and achieved a Master of Arts in Public History in 2004. This led to becoming a member of the Professional Historians Association. She was commissioned to curate local history photographic exhibitions at Warringah Mall and Manly Art Gallery. Then followed a commission to co-write the History of the Roche Factory in Australia when it closed down after 40 years. Her most recent venture was to co-write the history of Randells School of Dancing which was an icon on the Northern Beaches for over 40 years and which history had been sadly neglected. The family were thrilled with the result and Val Randell (now 93) was awarded an OAM on the strength of her application, based on the book. Having shockingly discovered at age 70 that she was adopted, Anne’s mission now is to write her memoir. 
By winning this grant, Anne receives for free three Literary Events and eight Workshops, either held via Zoom or in person at the State Library of NSW.
In announcing the award, Pippa Kay said The winner has co-written two local histories and is currently working on a memoir, having recently discovered the truth about her birth and the fact that she was adopted.  She’s looking for the help and support that she will receive by attending our literary events and workshops.
Congratulations Anne and all the best for the work you have ahead of you in creating your memoir.

The Society of Women Writers was founded in 1925 by a group of women writers and journalists with the goal of supporting women writers and promoting Australian literature.

Now, as the Society of Women Writers NSW, we sponsor competitions and awards for members as well as competitions open to all women writers.

WRITERS' GRANT

Since 2019, this grant has been held biennially and is open to all paid-up members for the financial year. It supports one winner to attend eight Workshops and three Literary Events held by The Society of Women Writers NSW, at the State Library of NSW or another venue.

Conditions of entry:
•    You must have been a member for a full twelve months
•    You must be a financial member for the period 202/2022 
•    Only one submission per member
•    This grant will be awarded by non-transferrable vouchers and must be used by March 2023
•    The judge’s decision is final

Applications must be submitted as follows:
1.    Provide 300-500 words, outlining how the grant will enhance your writing.
2.    Be typed, 1.5 spaced, on one side of A4 paper and must not exceed 500 words in length. The applicant's name must not appear on the Word document or it will be disqualified.
3.    Via email OR post. Please submit two separate documents:  (1) your 300-500 word document without your name on it and (2) your application form.
4.    By 5:00 pm on Friday to be determined in 2023.

The winner will be awarded the Grant at the Society of Women Writers Literary Luncheon, and AGM on Wednesday to be determined in 2023, in the Dixson Room at the Mitchell Library.

The winner will be permitted a two minute acceptance speech.
    
Email enquiries to:  The Society of Women Writers NSW Inc.
    Georgie Donaghey   swwpresident@gmail.com