I’m writing this in my lighthouse. Say what? Yep, you read correctly, I am the Artist in Residence at the Caloundra Lighthouses for a month. Such a cheeky thrill! Thanks to Sunshine Coast Council and Creativespaces for this initiative to give creatives access to spaces to create and make better use of local resources.
Owning (temporarily) a lighthouse is thrilling, including its 47 steps. Ironically, I’m working on a book set in the Outback, but I do have a manuscript in a drawer destined to get a new lighthouse scene. It’s very romantic, even here by myself. And definitely filling my creative well.
I’ve always loved lighthouses. So ‘owning’ one for a month is a dream come true, except I never thought to dream it. But when an email dropped into my inbox inviting me to apply to become the inaugural Artists in Residence at the Caloundra Lighthouses, I jumped at applying. And here I am!
The Caloundra Lighthouses sit side by side on a ridge above town. The original, a cute iron and timber design, unique to Queensland lighthouses, is the town’s oldest building. It was moved to another location in 1970 and saved by passionate locals and returned to pride of place in 1999. Its companion lighthouse dates to 1968. Both are heritage listed and beloved by many.
Sources tell me the Caloundra Lighthouse used to be a popular meeting spot for young romantics, so I reckon its fitting that a romance writer is using the space now.
With my lighthouse keeper’s view of the horizon in 360 degrees, a foldout table and plastic chair to work on, and a fridge and a kettle, it’s ideal for a low maintenance writer. The chance to let the imagination unfurl has sent my fingers flying over the keyboard.
I’m working on a new story, connected to the world of Granite Ridge you may have enjoyed discovering already in my book Ryan’s Return.
This new work is the story of Jazzy Parker, who decides to run for mayor to save the town, starting with the local hospital. First she needs to convince dishy Irish doctor Dermot Flynn, whose job is to close it down. I’m excited to see where the story goes, and how these two overcome their conflict.
I’m still struggling over a title, but if the story finds favour at a major publisher, they may choose to change it anyway, so for now, I’m calling it Jazzy’s Dilemma.
My dilemma is whether or not to return the key to the lovely Friends of the Lighthouses who generously cooperated to make the space available. Oh look, I can see a locksmith from here…
