New director for NSW Writers’ Centre

For the first time in two years, the NSW Writers’ Centre has a new permanent Executive Director. David Ryding has been keeping himself thoroughly occupied in his new role since the beginning of January, having moved from Melbourne following his most recent experience as Director of the Emerging Writers’ Festival – a role in which he helped promote the cause of emerging writers in all styles and across all ages.

“I think it’s always appropriate to look back at what we can do,” he said. “What we can do, is very very good, but it’s always useful to look at other professionals to see how they’re coping with challenges and developing ideas.”

Those professionals include writers from across the spectrum. Ryding himself began as a writer in theatre, but found his true calling in directorship, although he retains a number of writing credits.

“A successful organisation is as difficult to run as one that’s less successful,” he said. “The Writers’ Centre has an excellent program, underpinned by the people running it. When you look at similar programs, the quality of ours becomes very apparent.”

In addition to the Emerging Writers’ Festival, Ryding’s previous appointments also include stints as the Artistic Director of Mainstreet Theatre Company in South Australia, as well as Associate Director for children’s theatre company, Barking Gecko, in his home town of Perth. But what does he make of his new surroundings?

“Obviously we’re in fantastic grounds here in Callan Park. I haven’t had a chance to explore them yet, but I’m looking forward to interacting with the area and the locals.”