Local author and publisher, Linda Moore, who writes under her maiden name of Linda Bettenay, was a star performer this week as she entertained a group of Bencubbin locals with a passionate talk about her new book 'Wishes for Starlight'.
Bettenay's topic found great resonance with this group of enthusiastic locals. Those who attended were treated to an entertaining talk. The group included a smattering of folk who had read Linda's first book enjoyed it and were enthusiastic to read her second. There were even a few long lost relative in the audience - Linda is related to the Walker family.
Linda, who with husband Mike, owns and publishes the Roleystone Courier every month, says she blames her mum for her passionate interest in local historical characters and events. Wishes for Starlight is her second novel based on real characters, with names being changed to protect the not-so-innocent.
It’s the story of a young deaf-mute Aboriginal boy who grew up in a time when our indigenous fellow-Australians were treated as though they were second-class citizens. Starlight’s story is full of intrigue, injustice, unlikely friendships and a degree of hope. The audience was also entranced by the unbelievable true story behind Linda's first book 'Secrets Mothers Keep' which occurred in Wubin and Dalwallinu.
Linda revealed how her husband Mike only recently discovered that his grandfather had been murdered and grandmother, mother and two aunts had been savagely assaulted and so unearthed a carefully kept secret that had existed in the family for over 80 years. She also explained how she had researched the story, discovering strange links across the globe which assisted her to develop a complex set of extraordinary characters and bring this pioneering yarn to life.
Both books contain a lot more fact than fiction, which certainly give them an edge on mere fictional characters and events. They are an eye-opening look into some dubious practices in WA history.
Linda was accompanied by her husband, Mike, who is probably her greatest fan. Attendees eagerly purchased copies of both books, which were happily signed by the author.
'I was impressed with the delightful welcome. Special thanks to Sharon and Jess from the Bencubbin CRC for their organisation. Sharing the joy behind my books is a fulfilling experience,’ Bettenay said. Linda will definitely be back to Bencubbin!
If you would like to know more about Linda's Books or for details on events or purchasing the book you can get a copy at the Resource Centre or go to www.lindasbooks.com.au or for details on the author tours visit her facebook page www.facebook.com/lindasbookswa
 

On the 25th of August Brad Cusworth from “True Blue Business Support” came to Bencubbin to hold a Microsoft Excel course.  The course started out touching on the basics of Microsoft Excel, then moving on to the more intermediate course.
 
We had 5 participants of various skill levels for the course and they all said
they learnt different things, and took away information that will help them
in their jobs and even in their day to lives.
 
Brad touched on things such as copying and pasting into another worksheet, pasting formulas, conditional formatting, how to filter your lists, charts.
 
We were one of Brads first groups to receive this presentations.
 He was an excellent presenter, and well recommended for anyone.
 
Once again we would like to thank all those who came and supported us here at the Resource Centre and our events we hold.