Lauren Hollands
7 November 2014: Creative writing students at the University of Canberra have celebrated seeing their name in print, most for the first time, with the launch of FIRST. The anthology of creative writing that is produced each year also celebrated a special milestone this year- it's 21st birthday.
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The title and theme of this year's edition is Pulse, which reflects the energy of the stories that fill the pages.
The publication celebrated its coming of age at a launch at the Co-Op Bookshop on 23 October.
It was officially unveiled by award winning author Andrew Croome, who described this year's edition as full of "authenticity, emotion and realism".
"Pulse really gives us stories about family, about relationships, masculinity, sexuality, identity and even death and I think there is a real sense that the writers here are sharing something unique about each of those things," Mr Croome said, who has published works including the novels Midnight Empire and Document Z.
"There is no sort of cheap trickery, it's straight out honesty and each story for a little moment our heart beats alongside the writers heart and it's fantastic."
Pulse includes 26 stories and poems chosen from 130 entries from students.
Mr Croome also presented awards for the best short story and poem at the event. Madonna Quixley was awarded best poem for The Archeological Dig, and Best Short Story went to Andrew Myers for Neon Snow.
It was also the first time all first year design students at the University submitted designs for the book's cover. Over 70 entries were made, but it was Sarah Watson's design resembling a sharp and energetic heartbeat that was chosen.
FIRST 2014: Pulse can be purchased at the Co-Op Bookshop, The Hub, University of Canberra for $12.00 (non-members) and $11.17 (members).
