Castlemaine author and talented artist Trace Balla will this month launch her latest book, Landing With Wings, which is set right here on Dja Dja Wurrung country.
Trace is the much-loved creator of creator of Rivertime and Rockhopping, The Thank You Dish and Shine.
Her latest offering, published by Allen and Unwin, tells the story of Miri who has been on the move. Now she’s finding her feet, her freedom, her community and her home, treading lightly all the way. It is a story about spreading your wings and putting down roots in an ancient land.
Trace said the book was years in the making.
“It was probably around three years all up. It involved a lot of research. Collaboration with local elders and the Bendigo and District Aboriginal Co-Operative and to complete the intricate drawings,” she said.
The inside front cover features the indigenous names of our local flora and fauna and the back of the book gives a rare glimpse into the intricate work behind Trace’s latest offering. The book even features local Dja Dja Wurrung elder Rick Nelson performing a smoking ceremony.
Indigenous author Bruce Pascoe describes Trace’s latest book as “rich in country and family, deep in care for our future”.
The themes of respect for country and sustainability will carry through to the launch party and picnic that will take place at the Castlemaine Botanical Gardens Tearooms on Saturday March 28.
Trace urges people to come by bike or train if you can.
The day will commence with an 11am book signing. At 11.30am Uncle Rick will perform a Welcome to Country, this will be followed by talks and a behind-the-scenes slideshow of the development of the new book.
“Francis Cincotta of Newstead Natives nursery will speak. Then linger for a picnic – Cycle-Safe Mount Alexander will be there with a juice bike and information about local rides and activities. Have a go on the kids’ tandem bikes, or sit under a tree reading your new book! It will be a lot of fun!” Trace said.
