Over the last week and a half, I've been privileged to enjoy two great events for Ryders Ridge, firstly the launch at Avid Reader on 9 April, and yesterday the Authors in Action event at Victoria Point Library, in my childhood stomping ground of the Redland Shire. Both were amazing in different ways. The launch was a special evening and ably conducted by the fabulous Kim Wilkins, who said so many lovely things about me and the book.

I must also pay tribute to my step-dad, Vic, who masterminded a surprise costume gang, all out-fitted in akubras, stethoscopes and name badges for the Ryders Ridge Medical Clinic. I was extremely touched, and I also had the opportunity to see friends and family I've been meaning to catch up with for years.

This theme followed me into the Authors in Action event at Victoria Point Library (in conjunction with Angus & Robertson) with both a host of locals and some surprising faces from the past coming along. Vicky Point enjoys the enviable reputation of being a proactive library with an excellent program and facilities, and it certainly showed. They had put up a striking display in the library foyer.

I felt very welcome and as I rambled about my childhood riding horses all over the Redlands when it was still very agricultural, I saw more than a few people nodding along. Clearly, others remember these things too, the shared cultural memories making a community. Thanks to all who came along, including international artist Corinne Colombo who now calls the Redlands home and was sketching from the crowd. Even though much has changed in those parts of greater Brisbane, I'll be happy to return again and again.