Big names in literature join Creative Writing at Adelaide

Creative Writing

Renowned Australian novelist Brian Castro has been appointed Professor in Creative Writing at the University of Adelaide.

Professor Castro, who has more than 25 years' experience in writing, publishing, teaching and journalism, is the author of nine novels, including the award-winning Birds of Passage (1983), Double-Wolf (1991), After China (1992), Stepper (1997), Shanghai Dancing (2003), and The Garden Book (2005). His latest novel, The Bath Fugues, is due out in October.

Currently a Professorial Fellow at the University of Melbourne, Professor Castro has published more than 25 papers in refereed journals, and has strong academic and publishing links in Asia and Europe. His novels have been translated into French, German, Romanian, Chinese and Malay.

Professor Castro will replace Professor Nicholas Jose as Chair of Creative Writing in July. Professor Jose is leaving the University of Adelaide for a research professorial appointment with the University of Western Sydney, ahead of his term as Chair of Australian Studies at Harvard University in 2009.

"We are thrilled to have an author of Brian's calibre joining the University of Adelaide as Professor of Creative Writing," said the Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor James McWha. "His experience and expertise in publication, teaching and research supervision will greatly benefit our Creative Writing programs."

The Chair of Creative Writing at the University of Adelaide is the only dedicated chair of creative writing in Australia, and is part funded by the South Australian Government through Arts SA.

Professor Castro is one of two acclaimed Australian writers to join Creative Writing at the University of Adelaide this year, with award-winning poet Jill Jones also being appointed to the role of Senior Lecturer.

Ms Jones is the author of five full-length books, two of which have won national literary prizes, seven shorter and limited edition works, editor of four others, and has extensive experience in publishing and journalism. Her works have appeared in numerous journals and anthologies in Australia, New Zealand, the UK, US, Canada, India and Singapore. Ms Jones is currently Program Manager for the Literature Board of the Australia Council. She took up her position at the University of Adelaide last month.

"The dual appointments of Professor Castro and Jill Jones are a great boost for our Creative Writing programs, and will ensure that our students continue to be led and inspired by some of Australia's best creative talents," Professor McWha said.

"These two new staff understand the art and craft - and the business - of writing from years of experience, and will be invaluable in helping to shape the futures of new and emerging writers and researchers."

Professor Castro said this was an exciting time to be joining the University.

"Under the previous leadership of Professor Tom Shapcott and Professor Nicholas Jose, Creative Writing at the University of Adelaide has gained great momentum and has earned a national reputation for the quality of its students and the work they are producing. I look forward to taking up the Chair in July, and to working with the University's many talented new writers," he said.

Story by David Ellis