The second Gadigal Ginko took place on a sunny and breezy autumn afternoon. Ten poets met at Barangaroo Reserve on Sydney harbour. Five had joined the first Gadigal Ginko and five were new participants.
Barangaroo Reserve is layered with history. Named for an Aboriginal woman prominent in Sydney in the early days of colonisation, it was the site of shipyards and wharves for many years. Each of us spent some time alone exploring the re-constructed foreshore and headland park, with its sandstone blocks, native plants, terraces, lawns and water views.
Being a fine Saturday afternoon, many people, and a few dogs, were enjoying recreation in the park, while ferries and other boats passed by on the sparkling harbour and seagulls poked around the tideline. In these surroundings everyone found some haiku inspiration.
After individual wandering and contemplation, we re-gathered on the sandstone blocks of Nawi Cove to share draft poems. The afternoon concluded with most of the group chatting further over hot drinks and sweet treats.
I will be organising the next Gadigal Ginko for late winter or early spring. The date and general location will be announced on my webpage a few weeks in advance.
Leanne Mumford
Convenor
Australian Haiku Society 