Poems At A Social Distance - The Book (April 2022)
Rising from five years of writing and the live online gigs of the same name from 2021, the sixth and latest collection of poems from Peter will be launched on 20th April at the Tamworth City Library. A rich selection, there is more humour than past collections and even a children's section. The poetry is powerful and will linger with you but then it is also whimsical. Copies will be available from February Own Your Own
With all of us spending more time in our caves, I want to reach out from mine with a few stories and allow us all a small space in which we can block out the present and journey instead to the before and after. Poetry readings via Facebook Live.
Art, Word, Place (November/December 2019)
This exhibition, mounted by Arts North West and on display at the Tamworth Regional Gallery, pairs regional writers with artists to create a unique marriage of words and pictures. Eighteen poets were commissioned to write about their landscape and then artists were assigned the task of creating a response. The results are staggering. Peter provided the poem "300 Feet", a reflection of Flagstaff Mountain which towers over Tamworth. The poem explores several themes including the difference between indigenous relationships with the land and the attitudes of those who have come after. It also makes pointed references to water security and usage. Peter's poem has been interpreted by Manilla artist, Liz Priestly, whose evocative rendering creates a moving compendium.
Book Sale (June 2018)
All poetry collections now reduced by as much as 50% plus further savings if you purchase all four books.
While I Wasn't Looking (Mar 2017)
Six Nines Imagery is pleased to announce that a new collection of Peter's poetry will be released on 4th March 2017 at Collins Booksellers in Peel St, Tamworth from 10:30am. Celebrated local director, Daniel Gillett, who is at the reigns Peter's other current project, the play "Geoffrey, will launch "While I Wasn't Looking", Peter's fifth poetry release. The foreword for the collection has been written by Director of Education for the Tamworth Region, Ruythe Dufty.
This collection represents poems which have mumbled their way forward while Peter was busy on other projects. They are largely observational moments constructed in spare moments. The tiled describes this and also Peter's reaction to turning 60. This is a rich collection which will strike strong chords of resonance across all ages.
Geoffrey (Feb 2017)
Geoffrey (Dec 2016)
After four years of writing, re-writing, consulting and self-examination, Peter has not only completed but has also sold performance rights to his first play. Geoffrey explores the effect of mental illness on the lives of two men, and how their loved ones somehow cope and lead the way to redemption.
Featuring work from some of the region's finest creatives, Geoffrey is a premiere production from the Tamworth Dramatic Society.
Geoffrey has a distinctly Australian voice, telling a story that might previously have been told in hiding, in the suburbs, possibly even about someone next door. Shining a light on the courage, the love, the destruction, and the recovery which can be mental wellness, this is a play with a story to tell which is both current and important. Suitable for audiences 15+: occasional course language and mature themes.
Geoffrey will be showing at the Capitol Theatre in Tamworth from March 24th for an intensive eight show season. Tickets go on sale from 20th January, 2017. http://www.capitoltheatretamworth.com.au/
Bards & Bacon (July 2016)
Cafe 2340 hosted a early morning poetry and music event. Peter chaired the event and also read. His guests were poets Michael Thorley (Sleeping Alone 2009), Christine Watson and singer songwriter Jo Dabron. Despite the early start and cold morning, the thirty plus in attendance considered an event worth repeating.
Verse After Work (May 2016)
Peter presented a reading with a difference at the Tamworth City Library. Using material from all three of his published volumes, the reading also featured local actors. Emelia Saban gave a powerful voice to "Someone's Daughter" and Jason Palmer great affection to the war poem "Chocos". Sue Langston gave great fun in the two voiced poem "Singing", written about the night they met and Ben Sutton was a blustery old salt witnessing the wreck of Lochard in another two voiced poem with the author.
Peter presented a reading with a difference at the Tamworth City Library. Using material from all three of his published volumes, the reading also featured local actors. Emelia Saban gave a powerful voice to "Someone's Daughter" and Jason Palmer great affection to the war poem "Chocos". Sue Langston gave great fun in the two voiced poem "Singing", written about the night they met and Ben Sutton was a blustery old salt witnessing the wreck of Lochard in another two voiced poem with the author.
Readers Companion, Armidale (Oct 2015)
Roy Wheatley at Readers Companion will be happy to supply you with copies of any of Peter's books of poetry, including "Six Nines", which has just been released in a second edition with new cover, fonts and internal organisation as well poet's notes. Still only $15.
Roy Wheatley at Readers Companion will be happy to supply you with copies of any of Peter's books of poetry, including "Six Nines", which has just been released in a second edition with new cover, fonts and internal organisation as well poet's notes. Still only $15.
The Dust Jacket, Inverell (Oct 2015)
Drop in and see Josh at The Dust Jacket in Byron St (how appropriate) and pick up a copy of any of Peter's books, as they have just started stocking them.
Drop in and see Josh at The Dust Jacket in Byron St (how appropriate) and pick up a copy of any of Peter's books, as they have just started stocking them.
Black Dog Institute Presentations (Oct 2015)
Plenty of Black Dog Institute presentations coming up in the next few months. Tamworth, Camden, Springwood, Armidale and Nundle are all confirmed and Gunnedah are expected to place a request during the same time period. For more info, go to Tour Dates. For information on how your organisation can make a booking to have me come and talk about Depression from a research, medical and more importantly experiential point of view, go to Black Dog Institute on the tabs above.
Plenty of Black Dog Institute presentations coming up in the next few months. Tamworth, Camden, Springwood, Armidale and Nundle are all confirmed and Gunnedah are expected to place a request during the same time period. For more info, go to Tour Dates. For information on how your organisation can make a booking to have me come and talk about Depression from a research, medical and more importantly experiential point of view, go to Black Dog Institute on the tabs above.
"But I Feel Good" Radio Interview on Preventing Male Suicide (July 2015)
Peter was guest on the Radio Show "But I Feel Good", hosted by Jacqui Chaplin on Main-FM out of Catslemaine in central Victoria. The show focuses on matters of the mind. Peter talked a little about his back story and a lot about preventing male suicide. A nice touch of the two hours was a twenty song playlist which Peter chose to highlight his life and the topic. An edited 37 minute podcast of the program can be accessed on the Media page by following the links
Peter was guest on the Radio Show "But I Feel Good", hosted by Jacqui Chaplin on Main-FM out of Catslemaine in central Victoria. The show focuses on matters of the mind. Peter talked a little about his back story and a lot about preventing male suicide. A nice touch of the two hours was a twenty song playlist which Peter chose to highlight his life and the topic. An edited 37 minute podcast of the program can be accessed on the Media page by following the links
Australian Tour 2015 Cut Short (May 2015)
Our planned tour has been cut short after only three months owing to ill health in Peter's family.
Our planned tour has been cut short after only three months owing to ill health in Peter's family.
Australian Tour 2015 (February 2015)
Peter is taking his poetry on the road during 2015. He's currently working his way up the East Coast into Queensland. Look for his latest gigs on the new Tour Dates tab at the top of the page.
Peter is taking his poetry on the road during 2015. He's currently working his way up the East Coast into Queensland. Look for his latest gigs on the new Tour Dates tab at the top of the page.
Launching "Straightening My Tie" (January 2015)
Eric Bogle, Australia's songwriting conscience, launched Peter Langston's third collection of poems, "Straightening My Tie", at the 2015 Country Music Festival. Wendy Wood and Steve Charles provided a beautiful song and Anna Moulder of ABC New England North West compered the event in front of about forty people at Collins Booksellers. This collection follows on "Six Nines" (2009) and "Head Full of Whispers" (2012). It completes a huge last twelve months which included his work as a Cafe Poet for Australian Poetry, running the only regular live public poetry reading gig in Tamworth (the Postcode Poets) and being nominated for Australian of the Year. His contemporary poetry has been heard all along the east coast of Australia and his life story has been told on Conversations with Richard Fidler - once in January and again in October. His poems are rich and moving and always with an edge. He's travelled across Australia to gather our stories and tells them with his unique twist.
During the Festival, Peter performed gigs at his favourite venues - art galleries, libraries - including his writing retreat at Nundle, NSW and his homebase of Cafe 2340.
"Straightening My Tie" is available from bookshops and cafes listed on these pages and also online through this website, using the safe PayPal portal.
ABC New England North West - Interview With Anna Moulder (January 2015)
Peter was interviewed during the Breakfast Show as part of a series focusing on wordsmiths. He shared the very funny "The Marriage Wrecking Device" and described his poems as scaffolds upon which others could build with their own experiences and emotions.
ABC New England North West - Interview With Kelly Fuller (January 2015)
Peter appeared on the Morning Show, with Kelly Fuller, to talk about the new book, "Straightening My Tie" and read several poems from the new collection.
Australian of the Year Nomination (December 2014)
"I am extremely humbled to report that I was nominated for Australian of the Year for 2015. The nomination is an honour and one I could not have every entertained. To realise that someone thought so much of me to do so is staggering. Although it makes me feel very special, I assure all of you, I am not. Through a chain of circumstances, I have been give a responsibility to help others with skills I learned doing something I love. I am very mindful that I would not have reached this point and could not undertake any of these activities I do to support others without the love and commitment of my wonderful wife Sue,who encouraged me to live when I had no strength left. Thank you so much for this great honour."
Black Dog Presentations (November-December 2014)
Peter will be delivering presentations on mood disorders for the Black Dog Institute across New England and North Western NSW. The presentations will explain what depression and bipolar are; their signs and symptoms; the effects on the sufferer, carers and society; what help is available and how to access it; instruct in the basic art of building resilience; and offer hope through sharing Peter's own journey.
The events have been organised by Carer's NSW as part of their drought assistance package of measures to assist people in rural areas but they are open to any members of the community. You may catch a presentation at the following places:
15th Nov @ Tenterfield Memorial Hall from 10:30am
17th Nov @ Palamallawa Hall from 3:30pm
18th Nov @ Pilliga Community Technology Centre from 3:30pm
19th Nov @ Somerton Public School from 3:30pm
20th Nov @ Yarrowitch (TBA) from 3:30pm
21st Nov @ Armidale Showground from 3:30pm
24th Nov @ Wee Waa Showground from 3:30pm
25th Nov @ Mungandai Central School from 3:30pm
27th Nov @ Currabubula Public School from 3:30pm
1st Dec @ Uralla Community Centre from 3:30pm
2nd Dec @ Louis Johnson House, Manilla from 3:30pm
3rd Dec @ Glen Innes (TBA) from 3:30pm
4th Dec @ Rod Harborne Oval from 3:30pm
Peter will also be delivering two private presentations for Centacare in Armidale on the 12th Nov and Tamworth on the 18th December.
If you would like to book a presentation to find out all you can about Depression or Bipolar Disorder, including the latest research, ways in which you can help someone and the personal experience of a person who has walked all his life in the shadow of mental illness, you can contact the Black Dog Institute or Peter Langston to make arrangements for this service to come to you.
Eric Bogle, Australia's songwriting conscience, launched Peter Langston's third collection of poems, "Straightening My Tie", at the 2015 Country Music Festival. Wendy Wood and Steve Charles provided a beautiful song and Anna Moulder of ABC New England North West compered the event in front of about forty people at Collins Booksellers. This collection follows on "Six Nines" (2009) and "Head Full of Whispers" (2012). It completes a huge last twelve months which included his work as a Cafe Poet for Australian Poetry, running the only regular live public poetry reading gig in Tamworth (the Postcode Poets) and being nominated for Australian of the Year. His contemporary poetry has been heard all along the east coast of Australia and his life story has been told on Conversations with Richard Fidler - once in January and again in October. His poems are rich and moving and always with an edge. He's travelled across Australia to gather our stories and tells them with his unique twist.
During the Festival, Peter performed gigs at his favourite venues - art galleries, libraries - including his writing retreat at Nundle, NSW and his homebase of Cafe 2340.
"Straightening My Tie" is available from bookshops and cafes listed on these pages and also online through this website, using the safe PayPal portal.
ABC New England North West - Interview With Anna Moulder (January 2015)
Peter was interviewed during the Breakfast Show as part of a series focusing on wordsmiths. He shared the very funny "The Marriage Wrecking Device" and described his poems as scaffolds upon which others could build with their own experiences and emotions.
ABC New England North West - Interview With Kelly Fuller (January 2015)
Peter appeared on the Morning Show, with Kelly Fuller, to talk about the new book, "Straightening My Tie" and read several poems from the new collection.
Australian of the Year Nomination (December 2014)
"I am extremely humbled to report that I was nominated for Australian of the Year for 2015. The nomination is an honour and one I could not have every entertained. To realise that someone thought so much of me to do so is staggering. Although it makes me feel very special, I assure all of you, I am not. Through a chain of circumstances, I have been give a responsibility to help others with skills I learned doing something I love. I am very mindful that I would not have reached this point and could not undertake any of these activities I do to support others without the love and commitment of my wonderful wife Sue,who encouraged me to live when I had no strength left. Thank you so much for this great honour."
Black Dog Presentations (November-December 2014)
Peter will be delivering presentations on mood disorders for the Black Dog Institute across New England and North Western NSW. The presentations will explain what depression and bipolar are; their signs and symptoms; the effects on the sufferer, carers and society; what help is available and how to access it; instruct in the basic art of building resilience; and offer hope through sharing Peter's own journey.
The events have been organised by Carer's NSW as part of their drought assistance package of measures to assist people in rural areas but they are open to any members of the community. You may catch a presentation at the following places:
15th Nov @ Tenterfield Memorial Hall from 10:30am
17th Nov @ Palamallawa Hall from 3:30pm
18th Nov @ Pilliga Community Technology Centre from 3:30pm
19th Nov @ Somerton Public School from 3:30pm
20th Nov @ Yarrowitch (TBA) from 3:30pm
21st Nov @ Armidale Showground from 3:30pm
24th Nov @ Wee Waa Showground from 3:30pm
25th Nov @ Mungandai Central School from 3:30pm
27th Nov @ Currabubula Public School from 3:30pm
1st Dec @ Uralla Community Centre from 3:30pm
2nd Dec @ Louis Johnson House, Manilla from 3:30pm
3rd Dec @ Glen Innes (TBA) from 3:30pm
4th Dec @ Rod Harborne Oval from 3:30pm
Peter will also be delivering two private presentations for Centacare in Armidale on the 12th Nov and Tamworth on the 18th December.
If you would like to book a presentation to find out all you can about Depression or Bipolar Disorder, including the latest research, ways in which you can help someone and the personal experience of a person who has walked all his life in the shadow of mental illness, you can contact the Black Dog Institute or Peter Langston to make arrangements for this service to come to you.
Changes To Poetry Role (October 2014)
Owing to an increased role with the Black Dog Institute and plans to travel during 2015, Peter has reluctantly relinquished his role as a Cafe Poet at Cafe 2340 in Tamworth. He has also withdrawn from the Postcode Poets and from appearances speaking about cricket for ABC New England North West radio. Other roles with the Tamworth Musical Society and Emus Cricket Club will be held in suspension during the next year.
Owing to an increased role with the Black Dog Institute and plans to travel during 2015, Peter has reluctantly relinquished his role as a Cafe Poet at Cafe 2340 in Tamworth. He has also withdrawn from the Postcode Poets and from appearances speaking about cricket for ABC New England North West radio. Other roles with the Tamworth Musical Society and Emus Cricket Club will be held in suspension during the next year.
Mental Health Week (October 2014)
Following the death of the brilliant Robin Willaims, Peter wrote a piece about suicide and depression, designed to debunk some of the ill-informed commentary that was appearing in media and in response to a conversation he heard in a local cafe. It was released to his Peter Langston - Poet page on Facebook and via his LinkedIn page. The response was astounding, with more than 25000 page views across a variety of platforms of social media, over 500 likes and more importantly more than 800 shares on those formats. You can read the piece by following this link.
Suicide - Can We Say The Word
Following the death of the brilliant Robin Willaims, Peter wrote a piece about suicide and depression, designed to debunk some of the ill-informed commentary that was appearing in media and in response to a conversation he heard in a local cafe. It was released to his Peter Langston - Poet page on Facebook and via his LinkedIn page. The response was astounding, with more than 25000 page views across a variety of platforms of social media, over 500 likes and more importantly more than 800 shares on those formats. You can read the piece by following this link.Suicide - Can We Say The Word
Conversations - Take Two (October 2014)
Richard Fidler will be replaying his Conversation with Peter, which first aired in January 2014. It will go to air on Monday 7th October from 11:00am on all ABC Local radio stations across Australia.
Richard Fidler will be replaying his Conversation with Peter, which first aired in January 2014. It will go to air on Monday 7th October from 11:00am on all ABC Local radio stations across Australia.
Black Dog Presentations (September-November 2014)
Peter will be very busy throughout September and November, despite taking six weeks for holidays in between. Apart from previously booked events in Tamworth for Tamworth South Public School and St Peters Anglican Church and in Armidale for Centacare, Carers NSW have booked him for presentations across the North West and New Engalnd regions of NSW. He will be delivering the program "Breaking Down Depression and Building Resilience" to farmers in Moree, Narrabri, Bingara, Tenterfield, Glen Innes, Guyra, Armidale, Uralla, Walcha and Tamworth ... a total of twenty presentations in all.
Peter will be very busy throughout September and November, despite taking six weeks for holidays in between. Apart from previously booked events in Tamworth for Tamworth South Public School and St Peters Anglican Church and in Armidale for Centacare, Carers NSW have booked him for presentations across the North West and New Engalnd regions of NSW. He will be delivering the program "Breaking Down Depression and Building Resilience" to farmers in Moree, Narrabri, Bingara, Tenterfield, Glen Innes, Guyra, Armidale, Uralla, Walcha and Tamworth ... a total of twenty presentations in all.
Nundle Words and. Music Concert (September 2014)
Peter has co-ordinated a wonderful group of musicians and poets to present a concert at the Nundle Woollen Mill on Sunday 14th September. All proceeds will go toward the establishment of a scholarship fund to allow low income students of the Nundle Public School to participate in the music program operated at the school by the Tamworth Conservatorium of Music. Performers include Champagne Charlie's, Joe Dabron, Steve Charles, Chris Langston, Toni Swain, Jeff Gibson and the poet Christine Watson and himself.
Peter has co-ordinated a wonderful group of musicians and poets to present a concert at the Nundle Woollen Mill on Sunday 14th September. All proceeds will go toward the establishment of a scholarship fund to allow low income students of the Nundle Public School to participate in the music program operated at the school by the Tamworth Conservatorium of Music. Performers include Champagne Charlie's, Joe Dabron, Steve Charles, Chris Langston, Toni Swain, Jeff Gibson and the poet Christine Watson and himself.
Suicide - Can We Say The Word? (August 2014)
Following the death of the brilliant Robin Willaims, Peter wrote a piece about suicide and depression, designed to debunk some of the ill-informed commentary that was appearing in media and in response to a conversation he heard in a local cafe. It was release to his Peter Langston - Poet page on Facebook and via his LinkedIn page. The response was astounding, with more than 7000 page views, over 200 likes and more importantly more than 400 shares on those formats inside 48 hours. You can read the piece by following this link.
Suicide - Can We Say The Word?
Following the death of the brilliant Robin Willaims, Peter wrote a piece about suicide and depression, designed to debunk some of the ill-informed commentary that was appearing in media and in response to a conversation he heard in a local cafe. It was release to his Peter Langston - Poet page on Facebook and via his LinkedIn page. The response was astounding, with more than 7000 page views, over 200 likes and more importantly more than 400 shares on those formats inside 48 hours. You can read the piece by following this link.
Suicide - Can We Say The Word?
Every Picture Exhibition (December 2014-January 2015)
Tamworth Regional Gallery and Cafe Poet Peter Langston are pleased to announce that the Every Picture Exhibition will run again this year. From August to October, poets will have the opportunity (by appointment) to view the Gallery's permanent collection, respond in verse and submit an entry in the competition to chose five pieces. The chosen pieces will be displayed with artworks to form the exhibition.
Tamworth Regional Gallery and Cafe Poet Peter Langston are pleased to announce that the Every Picture Exhibition will run again this year. From August to October, poets will have the opportunity (by appointment) to view the Gallery's permanent collection, respond in verse and submit an entry in the competition to chose five pieces. The chosen pieces will be displayed with artworks to form the exhibition.
Postcode Poets - Visiting Poet, Tony Bennett (2nd August, 2014)
Esteemed poet, teacher and publisher Tony Bennett will respond to the "Strong Women, Strong Painting, Strong Culture" exhibition in a reading at the Tamworth Regional Gallery from 10:30am in what will be a fabulous cultural event. In the afternoon, he will read for the Postcode Poets and then present a workshop of preparing your work for publishing. Both events are part of Peter's work as Cafe Poet for Australian Poetry.
Esteemed poet, teacher and publisher Tony Bennett will respond to the "Strong Women, Strong Painting, Strong Culture" exhibition in a reading at the Tamworth Regional Gallery from 10:30am in what will be a fabulous cultural event. In the afternoon, he will read for the Postcode Poets and then present a workshop of preparing your work for publishing. Both events are part of Peter's work as Cafe Poet for Australian Poetry.
Black Dog Presentations (July, 2014)
Peter will back in his role as a community presenter for the Black Dog Institute during July. He'll be presenting "Navigating Teenage Depression" at Muswellbrook High School on the 14th and is off to the north west the following week, presenting "Breaking Down Depression and Building Resilience" at Boggabri and Narrabri Libraries (22nd), Wee Waa Library (morning of the 23rd) and then for the staff at Centacare in Narrabri in the afternoon.
Conversations with Richard Fidler (23rd January, 2014)
Peter appeared on this nationally broadcast interview program on ABC radio, to talk about his life managing bipolar and about the sexual assault he suffered at a child which shaped much of his adult life. It is a harrowing interview at times but provides a deep insight into the poet and the person. This broadcast is considered inappropriate for children but was motivated by Peter's desire to better inform the public about mental illness and mood disorders and their pervasive affects and about the dangers associated with the power differentials between adults and children and the potential that exists for abuse. It is a salient guide for parents. Some of the feedback from listeners has been included in the comments box to the right and Peter has been greatly warmed the support which has been shown following the interview. To listen to the program, follow the link to ABC Conversations with Richard Fidler - Peter Langston
Cafe Poet (Mar 2013)
The Postcode Poets (Feb 2013)
Peter will back in his role as a community presenter for the Black Dog Institute during July. He'll be presenting "Navigating Teenage Depression" at Muswellbrook High School on the 14th and is off to the north west the following week, presenting "Breaking Down Depression and Building Resilience" at Boggabri and Narrabri Libraries (22nd), Wee Waa Library (morning of the 23rd) and then for the staff at Centacare in Narrabri in the afternoon.
Conversations with Richard Fidler (23rd January, 2014)Peter appeared on this nationally broadcast interview program on ABC radio, to talk about his life managing bipolar and about the sexual assault he suffered at a child which shaped much of his adult life. It is a harrowing interview at times but provides a deep insight into the poet and the person. This broadcast is considered inappropriate for children but was motivated by Peter's desire to better inform the public about mental illness and mood disorders and their pervasive affects and about the dangers associated with the power differentials between adults and children and the potential that exists for abuse. It is a salient guide for parents. Some of the feedback from listeners has been included in the comments box to the right and Peter has been greatly warmed the support which has been shown following the interview. To listen to the program, follow the link to ABC Conversations with Richard Fidler - Peter Langston
Grafton Scouts Memorial (15th December 2013)
The Grafton Scouts have invited Peter to present a reading of his poem "So Easy To Forget" at the memorial service to mark the 70th anniversary of the drowning of 13 cub scouts in the Clarence River in 1943. His poem tells the tragic story. Three years ago, an article he wrote for the Daily Examiner caused the local council to act in repairing the obelisk which overlooks the site of the drowning.
NRG Poetry Reading (13th December 2013)
The Network Referrers Group in Brisbane have invited Peter to present a poetry reading at their Christmas function. To be held at the Queensland Cricketers Club at the Gabba, an audience of 50 will here his work after dinner.
The Network Referrers Group in Brisbane have invited Peter to present a poetry reading at their Christmas function. To be held at the Queensland Cricketers Club at the Gabba, an audience of 50 will here his work after dinner.
Every Picture Exhibition (16th November 2013)
A function will be held at the Tamworth Regional Gallery to officially launch the Every Picture Exhibition. From an idea by Peter, poets have been invited to submit poems inspired by artworks in the TRG collection. Five will be chosen from entries and displayed beside the artwork which inspired them as a special exhibition.
A function will be held at the Tamworth Regional Gallery to officially launch the Every Picture Exhibition. From an idea by Peter, poets have been invited to submit poems inspired by artworks in the TRG collection. Five will be chosen from entries and displayed beside the artwork which inspired them as a special exhibition.
Navigating Teenage Depression (31st Oct 2013)
Peter will be presenting this important community information package developed by the Black Dog Institute, to parents, teachers and community members at Gloucester High School as part of his ongoing role as a Community Presenter. The hour long sessions will define mood disorders, with an emphasis on bipolar and depression and a focus on teens. The presentation not only defines the disorders but introduces attendees to strategies and ways in which to help sufferers.
Peter will be presenting this important community information package developed by the Black Dog Institute, to parents, teachers and community members at Gloucester High School as part of his ongoing role as a Community Presenter. The hour long sessions will define mood disorders, with an emphasis on bipolar and depression and a focus on teens. The presentation not only defines the disorders but introduces attendees to strategies and ways in which to help sufferers.
Fish & Chip Friday - ABC New England North West (October 2013)
Peter recommenced his summer run on ABC local radio, appearing on Kelly Fuller's Morning Show each Friday as part of the small team which presents sport. As the resident cricketragic, he naturally specialises in talking about cricket. This is Peter's four year in the role.
Peter recommenced his summer run on ABC local radio, appearing on Kelly Fuller's Morning Show each Friday as part of the small team which presents sport. As the resident cricketragic, he naturally specialises in talking about cricket. This is Peter's four year in the role.
Janette Hoppe, Guest Poet (October long weekend 2013)
Janette Hoppe, a Newcastle tanka poet, travelled to Tamworth to present a reading to complement the "Feminine Optic" exhibition at the Tamworth Regional Art Gallery. Reading in front of the artists, she enthralled the audience with her powerful five line poems that reinterpreted the artworks on the walls of the Gallery. Following her morning reading, Janette conducted a tanka writing workshop for the Postcode Poets - the poetry group Peter established in February of 2013.
Janette Hoppe, a Newcastle tanka poet, travelled to Tamworth to present a reading to complement the "Feminine Optic" exhibition at the Tamworth Regional Art Gallery. Reading in front of the artists, she enthralled the audience with her powerful five line poems that reinterpreted the artworks on the walls of the Gallery. Following her morning reading, Janette conducted a tanka writing workshop for the Postcode Poets - the poetry group Peter established in February of 2013.
Poets At The Pub (September 2013)
Peter made his second appearance as guest poet at Newcastle's prestigious Poet's At The Pub.
Peter made his second appearance as guest poet at Newcastle's prestigious Poet's At The Pub.
Living With Bipolar - Trainee Doctor's Forum (August 2013)
As part of his duties as a community presenter with the Black Dog Institute, Peter was guest speaker at a North West trainee doctor's forum in Tamworth. He spoke about living with bipolar unmedicated and the effect it had on his wife and family and the steps he had to go through to move to the position of managing his illness effectively. The feedback from the event organiser was that his ten to twelve minute input generated discussion for the rest of the day.
As part of his duties as a community presenter with the Black Dog Institute, Peter was guest speaker at a North West trainee doctor's forum in Tamworth. He spoke about living with bipolar unmedicated and the effect it had on his wife and family and the steps he had to go through to move to the position of managing his illness effectively. The feedback from the event organiser was that his ten to twelve minute input generated discussion for the rest of the day.
Verse After Work (August 2013)
Peter presented a reading of 45 minutes at the Tamworth Regional Library. Reading from "Head Full of Whispers" and "Six Nines", he also included as yet unpublished works. A display screen showed photographs which supported the theme of the poems. His theme was to share with his audience the things that whisper in his head and then writes down.
Peter presented a reading of 45 minutes at the Tamworth Regional Library. Reading from "Head Full of Whispers" and "Six Nines", he also included as yet unpublished works. A display screen showed photographs which supported the theme of the poems. His theme was to share with his audience the things that whisper in his head and then writes down.
Cafe Poet, Cafe 2340 (August 2013)
It was confirmed that Peter would continue in his role as a Cafe Poet for Australian Poetry, following the success of activities during the first six months of his residency.
It was confirmed that Peter would continue in his role as a Cafe Poet for Australian Poetry, following the success of activities during the first six months of his residency.
Yamba Bookshop (July 2013)
Peter performed a selection of poems from "Head Full of Whispers" in the beautiful location on the main street of Yamba. He manage to debut a poem written in he week before, "So Easy To Forget" and created a silence in the bookshop that was only broken by sobs.
Peter performed a selection of poems from "Head Full of Whispers" in the beautiful location on the main street of Yamba. He manage to debut a poem written in he week before, "So Easy To Forget" and created a silence in the bookshop that was only broken by sobs.
Edelweiss Gallery, Dungowan (June 2013)
The Dungowan School has benefited from a cultural event held
at the Edelweiss Gallery last Sunday.
Tamworth poet Peter Langston presented a selection of his
poetry from his two collections, “Six Nines” and “Head Full of Whispers” as
well as some, as yet, unpublished work.
Supporting him were the talented musicians Jacqueline
Fraser, Sam Langston and Chris Langston. Fresh from their performances in the
Tamworth Musical Society’s stage the previous evening, they presented a mix of
Australian classics and originals on guitar, upright bass and flute.
A generous group of about twenty patrons responded warmly to
Langston’s poetry, laughing at the humorous entrapment of “The Marriage
Wrecking Device” and his comments on the role of men in their partner’s retail
therapy in “Shopping”. The political “The Coorong, Mate” and “Chocos” provoked
thought and his love poems had partners reaching for hands to hold. Perhaps the
story of the last time his mother played piano, family gathered around, in
“When Grandma Played Piano” had the most sentimental resonance.
On such a pleasant afternoon, patrons raised nearly $130 for
reading materials for the beginning readers at Dungowan School, with the
performers donating their time and Langston donating a percentage from the sale
of his books at the Gallery.
Peter has been appointed as a Cafe Poet by Australian Poetry. He will be based at Cafe 2340 in White St, Tamworth and will write, edit and create poetry there, whilst promoting poetry through the cafe.
Nepean Rotary Club (Feb 2013)
Peter was the invited guest of the club at their breakfast meeting on 11th February at the Nepean Rowing Club. He talked on the role resiliency plays in recovery from adversity and the need for individuals to take responsibility for the mentally ill they have contact with. Peter illustrated his points using his own life experiences of living with bipolar disorder and recovering from childhood sexual assault. A powerpoint presentation of the signs and symptoms of bipolar played behind him as he spoke and he included an ABC audio piece from his daughter Sarah Langston, a former Heywire winner, talking about the stigma of mental illness in rural communities. President Aaron Tyers said to members afterwards ...
"I'm sure you will all agree that our guest speaker on Monday (Peter Langston) was very different to any other presentations we have had. Confronting sometimes and very sad as well. The sad part being that there are many people in a similar position to Peter. At least Peter seems to have confronted his condition and has some control on the direction his life is taking – he is very inspirational."
"I'm sure you will all agree that our guest speaker on Monday (Peter Langston) was very different to any other presentations we have had. Confronting sometimes and very sad as well. The sad part being that there are many people in a similar position to Peter. At least Peter seems to have confronted his condition and has some control on the direction his life is taking – he is very inspirational."
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| Danni Lewis, Peter, Iris Mahoney & Tom Chapman |
Six Nines Imagery has joined venue sponsor Cafe 2340 to provide a venue for regular public poetry readings in Tamworth. Whilst the home of country music provides opportunities for bush poetry during the Country Music Festival and the local library have poetry events a few times a year, neither of these allow much of an input for local poets, especially unpublished ones. Meeting at noon on the first Saturday of every month at Cafe 2340 in White St, poets will be allocated ten minutes to share original work with the audience. This is an event for all poets, published or unpublished, veteran or beginner and for all styles. Its less about performance and more about the words. Read more in the Northern Daily Leader.
"Charlie" (Dec 2012)
This piece, about Peter's dark past and painted in just 500 words, was written in response to the challenge of talking about a strong life influence that wasn't positive. Its not hard to glorify someone who has set you on a road to success. The man "Charlie" who is the subject of this piece, is clearly the opposite. If the piece is confronting for readers, imagine how tough it is for the author. It was published on the ABC Open website
"New Reading In Brisbane" (Nov 2012)(Nov 2012)
Books @ Stones have become the latest bookshop to stock "Head Full of Whispers", giving Peter penetration into the Brisbane market. With his books being stocked in Melbourne as well, it means that his latest collection is reaching a wider audience. Peter will be reading at AllMedic on Saturday 10th November, from 9:00am and following the reading, he'll be signing books. More information can be obtained from Karen on (07) 3394 4949"Head Full of Whispers" (June 2012)
Peter Langston's new collection of poems, was launched to a good crowd at Narnia Bookshop on Saturday 26th May by ABC New England North West Morning Show presenter, Kelly Fuller. (Read Kelly's address in Reviews) Journalist Emelia Saban hosted the event with guest appearances by Sally-Anne Whitten, Chris Langston and Sam Langston. The book is available from Collins, Dymocks, Boo Books, Readers Companion, UNE Bookshop and Books of Renown in Armidale; and Narnia, Collins and at Cafe 2340 in Tamworth. It is also available online here at Six Nines Imagery (right side bar) and from July, at Collected Works (37 Swanston St, Melbourne). A small quantity of the first collection, "Six Nines", is still available through this website. Peter performed at Collins Booksellers in Centro, Armidale, following earlier performances in Tamworth. He also appeared on radio stations (follow the links to hear the interviews) 2TM with Graham Archer, ABC New England North West with Kelly Fuller, 2YouFM with Steve Charles and 2AD with Peter Raymond . Comments from the launch are included in the comments section.
"Tamworth Rotary Sunrise - Living With Bipolar" (April 2012)
Peter Langston's new collection of poems, was launched to a good crowd at Narnia Bookshop on Saturday 26th May by ABC New England North West Morning Show presenter, Kelly Fuller. (Read Kelly's address in Reviews) Journalist Emelia Saban hosted the event with guest appearances by Sally-Anne Whitten, Chris Langston and Sam Langston. The book is available from Collins, Dymocks, Boo Books, Readers Companion, UNE Bookshop and Books of Renown in Armidale; and Narnia, Collins and at Cafe 2340 in Tamworth. It is also available online here at Six Nines Imagery (right side bar) and from July, at Collected Works (37 Swanston St, Melbourne). A small quantity of the first collection, "Six Nines", is still available through this website. Peter performed at Collins Booksellers in Centro, Armidale, following earlier performances in Tamworth. He also appeared on radio stations (follow the links to hear the interviews) 2TM with Graham Archer, ABC New England North West with Kelly Fuller, 2YouFM with Steve Charles and 2AD with Peter Raymond . Comments from the launch are included in the comments section."Tamworth Rotary Sunrise - Living With Bipolar" (April 2012)
Following the meeting Peter was described as ""Arguably one of the most powerful guest speakers we have ever had" See full text of the comment
"Self Portrait of a Difficult Pleasure" (Jan 2012)
The Art Gallery of NSW have asked for a copy of Peter's poem about Brett Whiteley, with a view to some future use and he has been invited to present a reading at the Brett Whiteley Studio in Surry Hills as part of their Sunday afternoon, visiting poet series. This is a significant achievement.
"When Dougie Did The Double" (Jan 2012)
The opening poem from "Six Nines" has been chosen to be part of an exhibition at the Sydney Cricket Ground and will be displayed in the SCG Museum along side the Baggy Green that Doug Walters wore when he made 242 against the West Indies in February 1969. The poem is about Peter attending his first Test match as a 12 year old and and watching Walters score his double century and the depth of that first impression of Test cricket.
thecricketragics (Dec 2011)
Posts from Peter's longest running project, thecricketragics, has begun being picked up in third party online publications. The Bangladesh News, The Cricket Times and The Swinging Googlies have all featured articles from the website in recent weeks.
Posts from Peter's longest running project, thecricketragics, has begun being picked up in third party online publications. The Bangladesh News, The Cricket Times and The Swinging Googlies have all featured articles from the website in recent weeks.
1000 Words Exhibition (Dec 2011)
The poem "Self-Portrait of a Difficult Pleasure" has been selected for the 1000 Words Exhibition which opens at the New England Regional Art Museum on Friday 18th November. Peter is one of ten poets chosen to have their words displayed beside works from NERAM's various collections. His poem was inspired by a Brett Whiteley self-portrait which is part of the gallery's Chandler collection. On Sunday 4th December, the poets attended a special function at NERAM and performed readings of their work. You can view the poem by clicking on the Poetry tab or better still, visit NERAM and see both works in person. Because of copyright, we are not permitted to display the painting.
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| Peter with his poem and the Brett Whiteley self-portrait |
Favourite Shorts (Nov 2011)
Two of Peter's poems, "His Favourite Chair" and "Losing Weight By Proxy", were chosen to be performed by the Armidale Drama & Musical Society during the Favourite Shorts Festival conducted over two weekends at the Hoskins Centre at The Armidale School. Actors took the poems and dramatised them into ultra short one scene plays. Both poems were in Peter's first collection of poetry, "Six Nines".
Two of Peter's poems, "His Favourite Chair" and "Losing Weight By Proxy", were chosen to be performed by the Armidale Drama & Musical Society during the Favourite Shorts Festival conducted over two weekends at the Hoskins Centre at The Armidale School. Actors took the poems and dramatised them into ultra short one scene plays. Both poems were in Peter's first collection of poetry, "Six Nines".
