Author Talk: 1985 by Dominic Hoey - Newcastle City Library

We are excited to have award winning New-Zealand poet, novelist and youth advocate, Dominic Hoey in conversation with University of Newcastle Associate Professor Trisha Pender. They will be discussing his new novel, 1985, an electric coming-of-age adventure set in pre-gentrification Auckland. Following the success of his previous novels, Poor People with Money and Iceland, 1985 is a tale of underdogs, dreamers and the disenfranchised carving out their own paths in a city on the brink of change.

This event will be one in a series of public talks on Writing for Social Change happening across the community in October, in partnership with Hunter Writer’s Centre and The University of Newcastle.

Copies of the book will be available for purchase through MacLean’s Booksellers, with Dominic signing copies after the talk.

Cost: Free

Bookings essential

If you have any access or inclusion needs, you will be able to advise us when booking.

About Dominic Hoey and Trish Pender:

Dominic Hoey is a poet, author and playwright based in Auckland, New Zealand. He’s released two best-selling novels and written a million love poems. Through his Learn to Write Good programme, Dominic has taught thousands of writing students how to think dyslexic. He also works with young people through the Atawhai program, teaching art, yoga and meditation to help them with their mental health and self-esteem. He dreams of one day starting a rescue farm for wayward animals.  

Trisha Pender is an Associate Professor of English and Writing who has published widely on women’s literary history and feminist cultural studies. For the last decade she has coordinated the Gender Research Network at the University of Newcastle, and in 2025 established the Writing for Social Change speakers’ series and the undergraduate course that shares its name.