The accidental poet: chance decision sparks new chapter for Torquay retiree

Key points

• Torquay retiree Steve Shelley is preparing to launch his debut poetry collection, Private Poetry: Trespassers Welcome, later this month. He began writing after deciding to list his occupation as poet rather than retired on a form in 2024.
• Shelley, who moved to Melbourne from Canada in 1986, previously worked in technical sales.
• The 70-poem collection will launch at Torquay Bowls Club on Sunday 25 October from 5pm, with all proceeds from ticket and book sales donated to Feed Me Surf Coast.