Could this be author Britt Melville, caught in a tidal time warp?
Unidentified girl with a ‘body board’ for surfing, Snapper Rocks, Coolangatta, Queensland circa 1920 [picture] / Photographer unknown.
Asset name LS-LSP-CD803-IMG0010

Britt Melville That Girl No More

What are you reading at the moment?
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn. I’ve just been on holiday and it was the perfect page-turning thriller. I’m also reading Stasiland by Anna Funder because I love true stories. It’s brilliant but stayed in the suitcase while I was away.
What’s your favourite place on the Gold Coast, and why?
I’m happy anywhere the sand meets the sea. A walk and a swim is a cure for many things (between the flags of course!) I do prefer the quieter beaches. We’re lucky to have so many to choose from.
What’s your connection with the Gold Coast?
Before I moved here from Brisbane in 2013, the Gold Coast meant Christmas holidays and days at the beach. I’m learning it’s about much more than that.
What does your story convey about the Gold Coast?
I know many people will share similar memories to me, coming here on holidays with their family. In part, it’s a short walk down memory lane. But it’s also a cautionary tale. Just because our beaches are busy and there are lots of people around, we can never be complacent about water safety.
What attracted you to the photo you selected?
I saw this girl and immediately thought, “That could be me!” She looked so carefree and happy. Like I used to be.
Tell us about your story in one sentence.
That Girl No More is true story about innocence lost and how we always believe our parents will save us.
What else have you published?
This is my first submission and first published story. After working as a copywriter for fifteen years (getting paid to write for others) it feels a bit like I’ve shown up to work with no clothes on – but I’m enjoying it! (www.missword.com.au)
What’s your main genre?
I’m attracted to memoir. I think recording personal histories is important for families, and also to help people make sense of their lives.
What are you working on now?
More stories from my own life. In the future I hope to help other people write their own stories.