By Stephanie Holliday
CHERYL Phillips is no stranger to telling women’s stories, only weeks ago she officially launched her latest book ‘Heart and Soul of the South Shepparton Community Centre, Stories of Inspirational Women,’ at an open day celebrating the new purpose-built, $4M new facility on Archer Street.
In 2016, Cheryl wrote ‘Salt of the Earth: Inspirational Stories of Mooroopna and Ardmona Women’, which detailed extraordinary tales of surviving wars, the great depression, personal struggles and life in general.
“I would describe myself as a storyteller rather than a writer,” Cheryl explained.
“I’m passionate about women’s stories from all walks of life. Each story has touched me deeply; there’s stories of trauma and survival, stories of courage, stories of doing whatever it takes to be there for someone or get through a situation and stories of joy, connection, learning and life’s many up and downs.”
It took two years for Cheryl to interview 30 different women for the text, write, edit and publish the anthology.
“When I first put it out there that I was seeking women’s stories at the community centre, there was some reluctance, but as time went on, more and more women came forward wanting to share their story with me. I am eternally grateful for their openness and trust in me.”
You can purchase a copy of ‘Heart and Soul of the South Shepparton Community Centre, Stories of Inspirational Women’ at the South Shepparton Community Centre for $20.
