One of the best things about attending the Perth Poetry Festival was meeting so many wonderful new people. The audiences were warm and encouraging, my fellow performers were welcoming and friendly and the volunteers and WA Poets Inc folks were supportive and helpful. My whole trip to Perth was so nourishing and inspiring because of all of these beautiful people.

I love talking to new people and hearing their stories, views and opinions. It was wonderful to finally meet instagram buddies Scott Patrick Mitchell and Lisa Collier in person. And to meet Gary di Pazzio and Shey Marque from WA Poets who worked so hard with the rest of the crew to make the impossible possible. To see Laksnhmi R Kanchi again and visit the beautiful wetlands where she was a poet in residence. To talk art with Yael, see Gillian's friendly face in the audience, go for walks with Jaya Penelope and sit in the audience with Elio from the Perth Poetry Club.

I learnt about belligerent bunting from Davina (did you know it's illegal to put up bunting in Perth?). Thanks to Coral, Neil and the crew for a slightly surreal afternoon tea/drinks. Meeting and chatting to Sunil, Moly, Jake and Elizabeth, kindred spirits who know what it is like to come from someplace else. And to all the photographers who snapped so many great photos - I spent most of my time at the festival off my phone so I am super grateful for your photos!

I am so grateful to all of these beautiful people and all the others with whom I shared a conversation or a smile. You made my visit to Perth special and memorable. You turned your city into a welcoming community and made me feel as if I belonged. I'm going to treasure my visit always. People really do make a place and you brought your place to life for me, so thank you a million times and more.

I had such a fabulous time that I didn't want to leave. I will definitely be coming back as soon as I can!