Spotlight On Writers
Beth Warren
- Where do you originate from?
I was born in the inner-city suburb of Carlton, Melbourne, Australia. I am one of five children and the middle child. Growing up in the 1950s and 1960s in a multicultural environment was a fascinating experience. Many of our neighbours and friends came from very diverse cultural backgrounds, and I believe this sparked my fascination with people from all walks of life.
- What do you cherish most about the place you call home?
I have lived at the southern end of the Gold Coast, New South Wales, for the past thirty years or so, with a period in the middle of about eight years living on Jersey in the Channel Islands, UK. The Gold Coast is now my permanent home. As they say, ‘It is beautiful one day and perfect the next.’ The Gold Coast has a stunning hinterland featuring our native flora and fauna, as well as many beautiful, pristine beaches and wonderful scenic walks. The weather is almost perfect, except for the humidity during the Australian Summer between December and February, when the air conditioning gets a bit of a workout!!
- What ignites your creativity?
I studied Health Sciences and have spent most of my career as an Aesthetician. For a time, I also worked in radio, television, and marketing. All of my professional pursuits involve people, so it is people who inspire my creativity. I loved the contrast between nurturing clients in the clinic and the challenge of voiceovers, television presenting, and building rapport with retailers and customers in my role as Marketing Manager for a large regional shopping centre. I enjoy learning about other people’s stories and have felt privileged and honoured when they share and entrust those stories to me. I am fascinated by human nature.
- Do you have a favorite word, and could you incorporate it into a poetic phrase?
My favourite word is hope. Although I love learning new words and incorporating them in my stories and poetry, it is the word ‘hope’ that lingers in my mind almost daily. I have a wooden ‘HOPE’ sign hanging in my kitchen. I also have a small plaque on my desk that reads ‘For I know the plans I have for you. Plans to prosper you and not harm you. Plans to give you hope and a future.’ Hope for me is such a— well, hopeful — word. It is kind, positive, and optimistic.
- What is your pet peeve?
My pet peeve is when people are rude to service staff. I have seen people barking orders, complaining loudly and rudely to waiting staff who are doing their best, and getting angry if they have to wait in line. When I can, I try to counter others’ rudeness by complimenting the staff and being extra friendly.
- How would you describe the essence of Beth Warren?
It’s always challenging to describe oneself, but I have lived long enough to recognize my strengths and weaknesses. I am sensitive and can be easily hurt by criticism. I try to view things from others’ perspectives and aim to treat others as I want to be treated. I value friendship and have many wonderfully interesting, inspiring friends. I am a people person, but I also enjoy taking walks alone. It’s during these quiet moments that inspiration for writing often occurs. I am part of a small writers’ group that meets regularly. We genuinely appreciate each other’s stories and support, encouraging one another. I also love to sing and belong to a local choir. I enjoy dancing and attend weekly dance aerobics and Zumba classes. I am happily married and very proud of my family. I regularly learn lessons from my children and grandchildren. My husband would probably tell you that I am a chatterbox and can easily strike up a conversation with strangers. I am curious and love discovering new things.
- Spotlight On Writers – Beth Warren - November 15, 2025
- The Door - September 19, 2025
- Go Higher - May 31, 2025
