On the Couch with Jo Dyer

AWW Jo Dyer - photo by Shane ReidWho is Jo Dyer?
I’m Director of Adelaide Writers’ Week, frustrated political junkie, theatre and film producer, wine and gin drinker, AFL follower, social media lurker, and parent to the hapless Ez Dyer.

What would you do differently from what you do now?
Sleep more, volunteer for Elizabeth Warren’s campaign, speak French and Mandarin fluently, have a pilot’s license.

Who inspires you and why?
Greta Thunberg – she glowers impressively and speaks truth to power. Daisy Pearce – twins! And back playing already! Nicola Sturgeon – a great leader who takes no bullshit and makes time to read widely and deeply.

What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Invent a teleport machine – fast and low emissions travel for all. Regulate Big Tech companies to stamp out Fake News. Leave coal in the ground.

Favourite holiday destination and why?
Places very different to home – be challenged by cultures that couldn’t care less about yours.

When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
The path to South Australia’s great winery districts is well trod. Showing off our fabulous wines is always pleasingly envy-inducing and, right now, drinking Adelaide Hills’ wines at the Cellar Door helps bushfire recovery. What’s not to love?

What are you currently reading?
I’ve just finished Sienna Brown’s Master of My Fate – a powerful debut novel about a little known part of Australian history – and have moved on to Home Boy – the very funny but poignant first book by Writers’ Week guest H. M. Naqvi about lives transformed after 9/11, coming to Adelaide with his second, The Selected Works of Abdullah the Cossack – a rambunctious love letter to Karachi.

What are you currently listening to?
The new Pet Shop Boys album, Hotspot. Shocking to think they’ve been making music together for nearly 40 years!  They’re as innovative as ever.

Happiness is?
Strong coffee, WiFi and friendship.

What does the future hold for you?
I’m curious to see.

Jo is the Director of Adelaide Writers’ Week – which runs 29 February – 5 March 2020 in the Pioneer Women’s Memorial Garden. For more information and full program, visit: www.adelaidefestival.com.au for details.

Image: Jo Dyer – photo by Shane Reid