Media release

The writer and the state

3 February 2005

Patronage, national security and secrets

A lecture by Frank Moorhouse

Peter Carey, Barry Humphries and David Williamson are just three famous Australian writers that Frank Moorhouse has ‘met’ in the last six months. Moorhouse, the National Archives 2004 Frederick Watson Fellow, has been researching the Commonwealth Literary Fund, a staunch supporter of writers since 1908.

His research included combing through Archives’ ASIO files about prominent writers of the era, some suspected to be communist dissidents.

Frank will discuss the issues of patronage and national security and also reveal the gems he discovered fossicking through the Archives collection.

Who: Frank Moorhouse, 2004 Frederick Watson Fellow

What: Lecture on the Commonwealth Literary Fund and who it has supported over the years

When: Tuesday 8 February 2005, at 12.30pm

Where: National Archives of Australia, Queen Victoria Terrace, Parkes, ACT

Interviews: Frank can be interviewed immediately before and after the lecture, or by prior arrangement beforehand.

Contact information

Matthew Eggins on (02) 6212 3957 or 0413 157 255 for media enquiries
Derina McLaughlin on (02) 6212 3986 for information on the Frederick Watson Fellowship.