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Ali cried for Ruby Moonlight
Christopher Coleman Eckermann, Ali Cobby Eckerman’s brother, accepted two awards for Ali on her behalf - The Kenneth Slessor Prize for Poetry and Book of the Year at the NSW Premiers Awards. Image supplied by NSW Premiers Awards.
by Rhonda Hagan li Cobby Eckerman has won the Kenneth Slessor Prize for Poetry at the New South Wales Premiers Literary Awards. And to add to the shelf is another award, a surprise win that Ruby Moonlight is Book of the Year. Ali, pictured right, wasn’t able to accept the awards in person because she is currently in Ireland on a fourweek trip as the Australian Poetry Ambassador. Ali’s brother, Christopher Coleman Eckermann attended the awards, representing his sister in case she won. On hearing the news she had won the awards, Ali told First Nations Telegraph from her base in Ireland “It feels so surreal yet I cried several times. And I cried again this morning when I saw a photo of my brother accepting the awards.”
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“He looked so handsome and happy,” Ali said. “I am so proud that he wanted to do that for me. “It’s not bad for a couple of stolen adopted Nungas and the journeys we have lived,” she said. “I could never have dreamed of the success Ruby Moonlight has achieved. It leaves me with such hope that the truthfulness of the retelling of our stories by Aboriginal authors will promote real reconciliation not passive reconciliation. “My readings in Ireland have also been well received for the same reasons. Most Irish readers have read lots of Australian history accounts and tell me it is the first time they have heard or read Australian history in the Aboriginal voice. “It seems many people seem surprised to re-learn that history contains emotion. “Well, Aboriginal people have never confused or forgotten that,” Ali said. She said she needs to acknowledge the team at Magabala Books in Broome for being the strength that they are. “And Susie Agoston for designing the cover,” she said. “Susie is currently working on a short film to promote my Aboriginal Writers Retreat. This is where most of the award money will be invested. “I want to continue with my dream. “Free accomodation is provided for any helpers to assist with
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painting, paving, building verandahs, garden sculptures etc. So don’t be shy to contact me at ali@aboriginalwritersretreat.com.au “Of course I am thrilled to receive the awards. “But awards are in recognition for ones craft or talent and don’t make you a better person.
“Being a better person makes you a better person. “I am somewhat glad I am away in Ireland to avoid the fuss. “When I return home I hope to be the same person I am now sitting quietly in my garden listening to birds,” a very contented Ali said. Congratulations Ali!