Clock ticks round for new issue

By Rebecca Fraser
THE pendulum has swung again at Chisholm Institute of TAFE in Berwick with the launch of their ninth national literary anthology.
On Tuesday, Pendulum 2005 was officially unveiled at Brett’s Cafe Driftwood in Berwick.
The publication is well respected within national writing circles and this year’s anthology has attracted some of Australia’s and the world’s best poetry, short stories, artwork and photography.
Pendulum has been collated and edited by Chisholm Institute students for the past nine years in their small press class.
Pendulum 2005 team member and professional communication student Wendy McMahon said the anthology had established itself as a credible publication that showcased the creative talents of people from all over the world.
Ms McMahon said Wishbone Press, an affiliation of Chisholm Institute, began publishing Pendulum to give a voice to the many authors and artists who may not have been previously heard.
She added that through the incredible work of the contributors and dedication of the Pendulum team, the literary anthology had stood the test of time and continued to achieve an elevated level of integrity and workmanship.
Tuesday’s launch also featured live jazz music and readings from the latest anthology.
A mature aged student from Doveton, Ms McMahon said the project had enhanced the practical skills of students.
Ms McMahon started her education later in life, firstly completing her VCE before undertaking a Diploma in Professional Communication that is almost complete.
The grandmother of two said she had gained many practical skills from the Pendulum 2005 project.
“The small press class worked on the marketing to attract submissions, and did all of the editing and collating for Pendulum,” she said.
“This is such a wonderful course and has really given me so much confidence.
“The experience I have gained personally in working in a team and office environment in such a practical situation has been wonderful.
“It has been very hands on and the mixture of the class has been just fantastic.
“Everyone is aged from 19 to around 50 and everyone had something to give and contribute.
“It has been really great and we are really happy with the latest anthology,” she said.