AMWA sponsors local networking event in Dunedin

Late October’s “Literature and Lager” at the Captain Cook tavern in Dunedin provided an opportunity for AMWA members to network and meet other local writers.

The evening was well attended by approximately 70 people. Students, academics and family of the graduating class of nonfiction writers from the University of Otago mingled between readings.

A highlight was Emma Harcourt, perhaps our most recent AMWA member, presenting an entertaining excerpt from her work “Bloody Women and the Bears they Attract”.

The take-home message being that many people are surprisingly willing to believe that menstruation is a powerful and malevolent force. Mark Caswell introduced AMWA and fellow members Blair Hesp and Chris Booker to the crowd.

The readings were concluded by Jesse Bering reading a piece he had published in Scientific American on the possibility that animals may laugh and Lloyd Davis read a touching excerpt dedicated to local ornithologist John Darby. “

By Mark Caswell (AMWA Executive Committee Member)
Editor (Acting)
Best Practice Advocacy Centre

WINNER ANNOUNCEMENT! AMWA Early Career Award 2026

Congratulations to Nicole Vassileff, winner of the AMWA Early Career Award for 2026!

Nicole's submission, When the Eye Learns to Grow Back, made a significant impression on the judging panel:

"I learnt something about a topic I previously knew nothing about – the complex scientific information was presented in an accessible, informative and interesting way."

"I really enjoyed reading this piece from start to finish. It is clear that the writer has a talent for producing scientific writing that is both clear and engaging. I hope they continue to bring these skills to the field of medical and health communication—Australia needs more writers like them."