THE Watermark Literary Muster held at Kendall School of Arts over four days, 19 to 22 June was, once again, an outstanding cultural, social and economic success. The extraordinary rain caused the cancellation of two excursions but the prepared alternate program was met with enthusiasm. For some the weather increased the intimacy of the occasion.

Writers came from every state and territory in Australia and from Oregon, USA. Approximately half the Muster audience, who enjoyed four days of readings, story-telling and conversations both formal and informal, came from the local region with the other half coming from every state and territory in Australia. 7O% of the total attendance, which includes the Literary Dinner and Words & Music, were local residents. Book purchases exceeded $7000.

Within 24 hours, letters of thanks poured in from writers pre-empting, in some cases, letters of thanks being sent to them. Typical of the response was this from Miles Franklin Award winner, Roger McDonald: ‘What a great four days. I was proud to be part of it. My head is still spinning with the possibilities aroused in the interweaving of every sort of writing and writer!

Emails from readers are equally rewarding: ‘I was most impressed with the Watermark Muster. I found it amazing to be enjoying so many of my heartfelt passions and interests at the one venue... Thank you all for your welcome, your sustained hospitality, your imagination, your committed energy, your warmth, your Australian-ness’. Several have booked for 2011, one person has asked to buy a ‘lifetime ticket’!

Visitors have spoken of their intention to return to the district for longer holiday visits. Details of the large contribution made to the local economy, almost all of it in the Camden Haven, will be published soon.