I have been a member of Sisters in crime for a couple of years but this was my first award night, held each year—this the 21^st—at Thornbury Theatre, one of those wonderful blasts from the past I have driven past but never noticed before. 207 stories were entered, all vying for the much sort after Scarlet Stiletto (as a trophy only—Leigh Redhead’s pair that started on her feet didn’t ended up there courtesy of blisters, but they were to die for). Previous winners like Tara Moss and Angela Savage (latter was shortlisted this year too and got an honorable mention in one of the categories) have now books on the shelves. The stories get printed by Clan Destine Press and they look to be an impressive collection. These ladies were doing in with style—their words just might kill…

Leigh Redhead helped by Michaela and Carmel from the Sisters hosted, with a wonderful interview with Marta Dusseldorp. She claimed kissing Amy (her partner in Janet King) was more of a highlight than Guy Pearce in Jack Irish. Really? Okay her husband is cute so she probably didn’t think an on screen romance competed with him.

Jude Bridge (on the far left below), normally more a comedian/comedy writer took the grand red shoe away back to Perth, but local Victorian Julianne Negri as runner up made up for not being the winner by surely taken out the style award (see picture!).

Start writing for next year ladies (including the under 18’s—they have their own section). Eight thousand dollars in prizes…and a lot of fun.