I would like to thank Bill Manhire, for your wonderful teaching and encouragement during the writing of the first draft of this book, and Fergus Barrowman, for your patience and kindness.
For editorial advice and insight—offered with such gentleness and care—thank you Jane Parkin.
Thank you to the class of 2006 for your continuing support and friendship: Craig Cliff, Gigi Fenster, Tom Fitzsimons, Emma Gallagher, Kate Mahony, Mary Macpherson, Lucy Orbell, Sue Orr, and Abby Stewart.
Thank you Denis and Verna Adam, Biddy Grant, and my grandmother Bobbie Taylor, for financially enabling me to complete this book.
Many thanks, also, to Victoria Birkinshaw, Gina Kiel and Harry A’Court for working on the cover, and to Mark Derby for ongoing support, Christine and Adrian Taylor for providing a country writing retreat, and all my much loved family and friends (especially the Bidwill five).
And finally, this book belongs to three people:
My mother, Erin, who is always my first and most trusted reader and critic. You have stood beside me offering insights, ideas, and constant energy and enthusiasm. Thank you for graciously allowing me to weave your real life experience into a story in ‘The Beekeeper’. This book would not have been possible without you.
Loren, who made the diorama on the cover, and who has spent many hours supporting and encouraging the writing of these stories as they limped into life. I feel blessed to have such an affirming and loving sister as you.
And Dylan, my love, who has tirelessly driven me on when I’ve been close to giving up on the book altogether. You never fail to make me feel happy, no matter how dreary the day has been.
I am indebted to all three of you.
Thank you.