Fine words distilled for final Tasmanian regional heat

An enthusiastic crowd gathered at the Lark Distillery on Saturday night, September 17th, for the final regional Tasmanian heat of the Australian Poetry Slam 2011. The Lark is a gorgeous venue--glistening rows of bottled single-malt whiskies behind the bar, friendly staff, fantastic ambience. I am hoping it will become the home of a new slam poetry scene in Hobart, not just for this competition. But I'll certainly be back there next year!

In front of a very enthusiastic crowd, seven brave slammers took up the mic to test their poetic mettle and in a very close competition, seperated by decimal points, David Basser took the honours with a contemporary reflection on The Man from Snowy River. Second place belonged to Joe Nuttall, while James Basser--David's son--took home third place. (Is this the first time in the Australian Slam a father and son combination have made it through the same regional heat?) Perhaps fittingly, much of the prize money went straight to bar for a nip of that fine single malt...

The standard of the competition was very high and enormous thanks to everyone who entered. Thanks also to Keira and her fabulous team at the Lark, and Lesley Halm for invaluable assistance in promoting and supporting. And thanks to Joe Nuttall for providing the sound gear.

The stage is set for a fascinating and very competitive State FInal in Tassie on October 16th; family loyalties may be tested, the generation gap will be bridged but most importantly some new and exciting Tasmanian voices will perform for a shot at the National stage in Sydney, and the best of luck to everyone!