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Macrae argues that there is still a strong dividng line between speculative fiction (an umbrella term encompassing science fiction, fantasy and horror) and literary fiction in Australian culture, literary circles, arts funding and the discourse of the academy. He then discusses two recent anthologies of SF short stories which demonstrate the appeal SF writing can have for a wider readership.
In reminiscing about his relationship with Xavier Herbert and the role he played during the writing process of Herbert's novel Poor Fellow My Country, Laurie Hergenhan provides a portrait of Herbert more sympathetic than Herbert's usual reputation suggests, taking into consideration his complexities and talents and fostering a revaluation of his work.
