Our 19th ANWOS was held on Friday 18 March 2022 at the Bendat Centre in Dodd St, Wembley from 6.00-9.30pm. Attendance was capped at 150 seated guests (50% of venue capacity because of Level 2 covid restrictions imposed by the state government) and tickets sold out within a week of the event. Guests had to show proof of double vaccination before entry, sign in via QR code on Service
WA, wear masks and maintain social distance. MC Jan Nicholls welcomed everyone and acted as timekeeper coordinating the presentations. Fremantle Press sponsorship kindly covered the venue hire costs and they were represented on the night by publisher Cate Sutherland. Three out of the 18 presenters on the program were published by Fremantle Press. Westbooks, as always, was the official book supplier with Michelle Murphy and Julie Bumford ably taking care of book sales on the night. Of the 18 presenters originally invited two had to withdraw citing Covid concerns – Cindy Lane and James Foley. Seven were new to ANWOS and all presenters gave spectacular performances, entertaining the capacity audience with their wit, humour and originality. Catering was supplied by Butterfly Catering; the platters were beautifully presented as always, with the food varied, tasty and plentiful. All wine was donated from a variety of sources. A decision was made not to sell raffle tickets in the current Covid situation even though this represents a lost opportunity to raise funds for the Branch. Consideration will be given to incorporating the cost of raffle tickets into future ticket prices. Five raffle prizes of bags of books from various donors were given out including signed copies by many of the presenters. Briony Stewart generously donated her charcoal sketch of a character from Bedtime Sorted which will be framed and offered for Silent Auction at the CBCA Book Week Dinner in August 2022. Thanks to all committee members who combined in a magnificent team effort both in the lead-up and on the night. Thanks also to partners and family members who assisted. - Jan Nicholls, A Night with our Stars Convenor |