Rebecca, from a prison in QLD
Thank you to all who created 'About Time' and for making it work. I am a deaf prisoner who is quite isolated within isolation. The newspaper is like a light at the end of a tunnel. Thank you.
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Feedback From Our Readers
Every day we receive letters from people in prison. Many share the impact of About Time on their lives. Readers have told us that they feel as if they have a voice for the very first time. Some talk about how the paper has helped them connect to others and lessen isolation. Many talk about the educative benefit of the paper, while others praise the newfound hope and sense of self-worth they feel reading a publication just for them. Here are all of their words.
David, from a prison in NSW
Here, identity is often reduced to our MIN number, our sense of personhood is eroded day by day. Yet when an inmate's words or artwork appear in About Time, that person is recognised again as fully human, capable of thought, creativity, and contribution. There is no other service in Australia that reaches us in this way.
Martin, from a prison in VIC
About Time gives prisoners a voice and a platform. Contributing made me feel valued. The relatable content really makes you feel that you are not alone. In my 4th week of prison it is already making a hard situation somewhat better and has given me a more positive feeling. Keep up the great work, you are making a difference and helping countless people get through this experience!
Anonymous, from a prison in Australia
Just because we're in prison doesn't mean everyone should forget about us.
With About Time - we are not forgotten.
Thank you.
Mark, formerly incarcerated in VIC
About Time has been a lifeline - when I was inside, it gave me a sense of purpose and feelings of camaraderie. The stories were really powerful. I have a chronic illness and suffer from intense pain, and writing for About Time has given me something to focus on and prevents me from going to dark places. Without About Time I don't know where I would be.
Rachel, from a prison in QLD
Wow, I won the caption comp for December... I've never won anything and the whole jail is congratulating me. Our jail was never told about your newspaper – but in November 2024 it just showed up and all 120 girls love it. So please, please keep it up. We eagerly await it every month here.
Zayne, from a prison in VIC
I read your paper the night previous, and a part of me that previously was dead or dying suddenly felt alive and connected to others with similar struggles and trauma … So I just want to say thanks for your newsletter/prison paper.
Kim, from a prison in TAS
Keep this paper going, has heaps of info for people like me, who know nothing about the system.
Paul, from a prison in QLD
About Time volunteers, give yourself a pat on the back for this paper, well done! You have no idea the effect it has on the readers. Such a positive initiative towards all people incarcerated. Thank you.
Leslie, from a prison in QLD
Thank you About Time - the printed voice of the prisons.
Jai, from a prison in QLD
Finally a voice for the unseen and unheard. First huge step in connecting prisoners.
There are way too many problems in jail, so to hope for better solutions is always an interesting find. Also staying connected to other's thoughts and feelings – it sort of feels like a union paper.
I certainly agree it helps give a more earnest effort of confidence in writing, but I do believe it is more to do with the burning feelings in one's heart that makes them feel compelled to write. Improved writing skills is just a bonus.
I personally look forward to the paper, as do so many others in prison. The impact was very moving – to hear other stories, to see legal opportunities available as well as fun stuff to do to keep us occupied (especially with so many lockdowns). It is in the word 'Impact' – To Act!
Ken, from a prison in TAS
This paper is dedicated to prisoners which helps our mind health in so many ways.
The stories are from prisoners who want to share their views with others and that helps us do our time. It meant I could share my story with others who are feeling the same way. I feel this paper allows us to connect with each other.
About Time is a great way to learn what is happening in other jails. It was a chance to use my writing skills and use the tools to tell a story. Love this paper.
Please keep up the great work and thanks for giving us a voice.
David, from a prison in VIC
I write to About Time so others can see their stories matter and others will maybe write in too or tell there families to. Cause it helps to deal with being stuck and also lets me get it out.
It makes me feel pain is only a thought not a feeling and everyone goes through it some don’t show it. Cause I see others feel it or live it too, I feel their pain as I too have lived it or gone through it.
It is a space of free speech and also gives good advice and also hope and strength.
Shay, from a prison in QLD
About Time gives a sense of community and belonging. It’s valuable to have my opinion heard and respected, to stay feeling valued and worthy.
To have a voice, to be heard with no fear of judgment. It gives a clearer perspective and to know that others experience the same things as we do in these places. Hear and see other peoples stories and know there is no judgement.
Because the truths are being printed rather than hidden.
Storm, from a prison in VIC
I have been in prison for over 13 years and I want to say that your newspaper is an amazing opportunity for all who have put the time in and it has been very well received throughout the Victorian Prison System.
David, from a prison in QLD
About Time is filled with good and thoughtful people issues, because we all have contributed to it. Misery loves company, so to speak. I’m now 9 jail sentences in so am very much used to this but this is for us crims and has made us feel connected and that someone gives a f**k. By making us write letters, it helped stimulate the brain.
The paper gives me a positive attitude is because I felt good when I read this. Thank you and I love your work.
Tanya, from a prison in VIC
About Time is an avenue that we can express our frustrations, our gratitude and facts. It is a honest and reliable source that we can depend on, it is stories and facts from prisoners that hasn’t been distorted. None of the stories have been doctored. I really enjoy reading this honest media outlet. Thank you!
David, from a prison in NSW
Your work is so necessary for the nourishment of the incarcerated.
I have encouraged men like Tony, Adrian and others to contribute. Tony was so excited his two letters were published and receiving a personal letter from Denham Sadler. It increased his self confidence.
Mark, from a prison in VIC
Congratulations on the launch of About Time. I can only imagine how many obstacles you have navigated to successfully sail the product into Australia's prisons, and from where I sit it was very warmly received by the inmates, security and medical staff that I share time with. Well done, and thank you for delivering us something we didn't know we needed until we received it.
Anthony, from a prison in VIC
I'd like to give a shout-out to Vanessa from prison in WA and welcome to About Time. I discovered About Time early last year 2025 and always look forward each month for the read. Last year in two seperate issues I had stories published and seeing them in the national prison newspaper was the best feeling.
I've always had a love for writing but never had the time, now incarcerated I have nothing but time so I decided to put pen to paper and with two stories published I am now working on writing a book.
Sometimes when we write something worth publishing it is when we least expect it. For me writing is a powerful tool that helps with my mental health.
Keep up the good work and never give up writing, I look forward to future stories.
Paris, from a prison in VIC
About Time helped both me and my partner on the outside share some situationaI awareness. Cannot wait for the paper each month. The articles by other prisoners resonate with my own inner voice, they give my own feelings more universality. Submitting my writing feels as if I can make a difference.
Thank you About Time! Amazing work.
Ashley, from a prison in QLD
To read about people experiencing almost the same things that bother me makes me feel less isolated and that I am not crazy, some peace of mind and relativity, empathy and understanding.
To read about others going through the same experience is reassuring and comforting, it helps kill time, learn, laugh and relate.
Keep up the good work. We need you :)
Glen, from a prison in WA
Thank you for your work providing the About Time platform which allows creativity and expression a space to flourish.
Last night I woke up with something I had to write down which is just how it happens, and I wrote this poem that I would like to share with everybody. I hope you like it too.
It would be nice if you could publish it as it is my hope that it will help people form more positive relationships in their lives and help contribute to a more pro-social society.
Thank you, I enjoy reading your newspaper.
Jesse, from a prison in NSW
I've been following your paper and I love it. I find it very cool and entertaining.
Subscriber
He was pretty happy when he called, and had already cut the exercises out to stick on the wall in his cell!
Thanks again Edith. I hope all in the AT team really understand how much difference the paper makes.
Rainie, from a prison in WA
I first and foremost would like to express my gratitude and appreciation for all the hard work that goes into producing and providing myself and the other prisoners in Australia with your truly captivating content.
Your work and effort does not go unnoticed.
Thank you to the team at About Time for your efforts and hard work making the newspaper what it is.
Muhamed, from a prison in VIC
Dear About Time,
Thank you once again for your amazing publication. I know I speak for myself and many of the other men here when I say that you publication is valued and appreciatedand we look forward to its arrival each month. It certainly becomes a central discussion point in the yard in the days following its distribution here. Both myself and the other men within my accommodation lodge read over every edition repeatedly.
I've written to you once previously with a poem that didn't make the cut. I hope my submission this time around is more in line with the material you're looking to publish. Once again, thank you for your incredible work in continuing to support, connect, and inform incarcerated men and women across the country.
Shea, from a prison in VIC
I am thankful for any and all social and creative outlets such as yourselves involved in the creation and distribution of your newspaper. They provide a link or window to another place, an opening for personal expression and a greater sense of community for those who choose to make use of the opportunities. Having someone stop you in the yard to tell you that they were impressed with your writing is valuable and reinvigorating.
Jason, from a prison in the NT
It was great to see prisoners being spoken of in a constructive and positive way, as I'm sure you're aware that isn't the norm in Australia. I look forward to hearing back from you and hopefully reading your newspaper.
Courtenay, from a prison in QLD
Thank you for providing such a great source of information for people who have found themselves inside. I have been reading your papers now for a few months. I have really appreciated reading stories etc from fellow inmates. I have been struggling with the disconnection I feel from my loved ones, especially my beautiful partner Melanie. I thought I'd send in a poem I wrote expressing my feelings about the sadness but also the hope that I feel about seeing my girl. She is my everything and I miss her terribly. I hope that anyone who reads it finds comfort and hope in it. I pray to be back with her soon.
Joeby, from a prison in QLD
About Time has positively impacted my belief in myself. It has real life stories from real life prisoners.
Lanie, from a prison in VIC
I love this newspaper and enjoy reading it from front to back and back to front. I really enjoy looking at the artworks. You published one of my artworks, DEEP OCEAN, so thank you. I am very proud of that artwork. I taught myself to do art as I was severely bullied and abused, mentally, and physically, growing up and until this very day and I find it is good escape for my mental health. It helps me copy with all the bullshit and bullying that goes on in this place, that I've called home for the past 9 years. I have a minimum of 6 years left to go and then hopefully I can leave this place behind me. I'm not sure where I will restart my life once I'm out, but I guess I still have time to sort that out lol. Well that's all I wanted to say so thank you and keep up the wonderful work.
Milo, from a prison in QLD
Its my first time reading this paper and I love every thing that it offers, thank you for sharing information that all prisoners need to know.
It makes you feel like your feelings and thoughts are valid and others can relate to how you feel and together we can over come this negative time in our lives and turn this experience into a positive and heal and live your best life.
Because it comes from us that live it, us the real people that experience jail life every day every minute, people on the outside should really learn what actually goes on and the mistreatment we as prisoners go through we are all not bad people.
This is just the first of many times I will submit my words, my feelings and my thoughts I will continue to offer my help and guidance even when I am released.
Its good to share and connect without judgement give you self confidence.
Anonymous, from a prison in VIC
Dear About Time,
I was very excited to see the writing competition article in the latest edition. Included is my submission. It's based on my own happy place (nature) and even if it's nowhere near good enough to be included in the newspaper, just having the chance to write creatively is fantastic. So thank you.
Asad, from a prison in QLD
I can't tell you how glad I was to see this paper come into my unit, a sign that times can and always will change the way we live, especially in prison.
Bryn, from a prison in QLD
To About Time,
Thank you for your newspaper. I look forward to reading it each month. Its great! I enjoyed it from the first time I read it last year. Its made me feel connected, seen & heard. When I first went to jail I felt really alone and your newspaper helped me so much. Someone – well lots of someones – got how I felt. They understood. Thank you for that. I've written this poem while incarcerated. I really hope you will publish it for me.
Keep up the hard work – we need you guys.
Martin, from a prison in VIC
This is my first time and I must say, stumbling across About Time has made things so much better. The open, honest, raw and relatable articles are real gems and resonate hugely.
Anyway, I felt compelled to contribute so here follows a few submissions for your consideration.
About Time
There is a great paper 'About Time',
Which is free and won't cost you a dime,
With articles galore,
It is never a bore,
And provides a refreshing angle on crime!
Jordan, from a prison in VIC
Hello About Time and Readers,
I love getting the opportunity to learn about other prisoners and their stories from all over the country. We all have something to share and I encourage everyone to give it a go. Finding purpose is how we thrive beyond survival against all odds, especially in these circumstances that I'm sure we can all relate to.
Shout out to my girls at DPFC and anyone else incarcerated, struggling with their own consciousness.
A gracious thank you to About Time for giving us a necessary platform to express ourselves.
Adrian, from a prison in NSW
I’ve read every edition, and love what you do this paper brings hope and reminds us we are human.
From my poems I hope to bring hope! I want to reach people and if my poem somewhere helps someone then I have succeeded in my mission.
David, from a prison in NSW
Thanks again for all of you working so professionally and with passion. The paper is a great success among the men I speak with. I encourage them to write. There is so much talent among the men to be shared.
Charlotte, from a prison in the ACT
I relate to a lot of people in this paper. I feel comfort in knowing I'm not alone in custody. I feel more connected, and well heard.
I feel submitting/participating in surveys makes me feel as my input is valued towards making a better paper! It's helped boredom and helped me better understand jail, as it's my first time (been here 4 months).
Keep producing a great paper! Thousands of us appreciate it! Love from Charlotte.
Subscriber
Thank you for what you do.
I have no contact with my brother who is in prison and the newspaper gives me great comfort knowing I have some small insight into his life, a way I can connect with his world.
Vanessa, from a prison in WA
To About Time,
I only just discovered the prison newspaper last month in April 2026.
I spent all day reading and sharing the newspaper here at Melaleuca Women’s Prison.
I had only just begun writing again since getting incarcerated this year in January.
When I found out about About Time I was excited to be able to write in to the national prison newspaper.
I do look forward to reading some of the submitted written work of others and possibly hope to enter into the next writing competition!
From Vanessa.
Colin, from a prison in WA
I did get a copy of the paper with my article in it and I was pleased that some of my villain mates approved and wanted me to sign their copy. As a published author I charged them one Tim Tam per signature.
David, from a prison in NSW
This paper deserves all the support it can get. A way for prisoners to express their honest stories and gifts. A real way to heal and rehabilitate encouraging others to do the same.
Stevie, from a prison in VIC
Dear Rosie,
I just want to say how happy I am to receive a reply from you. I never expected an acknowledgement of receipt, let along a letter. This means a world to me. It shows that someone was kind enough to take their time to read through and understand what it meant and appreciate the event and the effects it bears upon the writer. I can not thank you enough for that.
M, from a prison in TAS
About Time helps me relate to my problems knowing others are also dealing with similar problems I can see a light at the end of the tunnel. I feel that I have a connection to others with similar struggles and that I am not alone. I don’t feel as isolated over the past six years doing hard time.
It has given me the confidence in trying to write better and for help in bettering myself pre-release.
Due to reading this I know there is help and that there’s always some one worse off needing help.
Michelle, from a prison in WA
PS: If you receive mail from Belinda, please publish her entry. Seeing her achieve that would make me very happy. Thank you :)
Skye, from a prison in QLD
I think the guys in prison appreciate this paper. It reminds me I’m not the only one in this situation, I get like to see what others are writing & feeling while in jail.
Thank you all you guys do :)
Isabella, Forensic Hospital NSW staff member
Thanks for all the important work you and your organisation are doing.
David, from a prison in NSW
Already, by my enthusiasm, and seeing my article painted, interest in the paper is taking off. More believe they are able to be heard [read]. Slowly this will encourage others. To have their opinions in print is a boost to their value of self-respect.
Joseph and his team are beginning a remarkable journey towards quality communication assisting men to find their self-respect and worth as human beings!
This adds another step in the "ladder" to restorative justice in reality. A healing power. Wow!
Hollie, from a prison in WA
I was lucky enough to stumble across your writing submission page. I have enclosed a "lived experience" poem for pure humour purpose and hope you enjoy and share it with the prison population :)
Mother of person incarcerated in the NT
I do love getting your publication. I cut it into A4 sections and send them to my son, who is in an NT prison. Only 5 cut-out pages at a time, of course!
Anonymous, from a prison in Australia
About Time is now my favourite paper in prison. Just because we're in prison doesn't mean everyone would forget about us. With About Time – we are not forgotten. Thank you.
Danielle, from a prison in QLD
Here is some feedback for About Time – it's absolutely positive! From my first introduction to issue 2 or 3 I looked forward to the next edition. Arriving here I followed up with an officer who ensured copies were available to us.
Cindy, donor
Keep up the great work.
M, from a prison in WA
Submitting writing to About Time made me feel valued, I can read about what other people go through. The response I got was validating and my poem got posted, it was really nice to feel appreciated and recognised. I love reading About Time, it makes me feel not so alone in prison and more informed too. Thank you for doing About Time.
Nina, donor
Congratulations - I just heard about the newspaper via the 7am podcast. Fantastic. I used to work at Fremantle Prison a long time ago and we were always trying to find good ways to improve the lives of the prisoners. A newspaper would have been great. I hope that prisoners in WA can access the newspaper...I'm not sure they can.
Christopher, from a prison in NSW
I’m writing to you today to tell you guys I love the newspaper I read every copy I can get.
Anonymous, from a prison in QLD
Thanks for your time, much appreciated.
F.T.S., from a prison in NSW
P.S. Love your work.
Elias, from a prison in TAS
Big shout out from the Tassie crew thank you for getting the paper going, can only imagine the brick walls and troubles you had to go through. Love the content you guys have, a variety and relevant information.
Jon, from a prison in VIC
Big congratulations on the newspaper, you have no idea how many of us read your paper and how much it helps us boys to know and hear so many of us are going through the same stuff.
Wolverine, from a prison in QLD
I would like to let you all know I really love your paper, and the intentions behind it. Keep up the great work.
I have only ever written one poem, but it came out pretty well so I’d like to share with y’all.
Hoani, from a prison in WA
I have recently come by a copy of the newspaper, About Time. I read some interesting correspondence by others that are incarcerated. It is enlightening and insightful material to read and connect with on an emotional level as well as intellectually. Thank you for giving us a voice, an outlet, an opportunity for creative work and being able to share on a humanistic level our thoughts, feelings and aspirations. This is a piece I wrote. I hope it conveys my love for people, for life, and my hope for redemption.
Biannca, from a prison in VIC
Hi Rosie,
Really great that you attend some of our writing days here at DPFC.
Michelle, donor
Fantastic work.
Lindsay, from a prison in NSW
I recently discovered your publication while flicking through the resources on my tablet but have now gone through and read all the back issues available… it's fantastic and look forward to its release each month.
Jon, from a prison in VIC
Thanks for your excellent newspaper. It always contains useful information and heartfelt stories. Keep up the good work.
Aidan, from a prison in VIC
Thank you About Time.
Mel, from a prison in NSW
We may be criminals, but we also cry at night.
Rachel, from a prison in QLD
Wow, I won the caption comp for December... I've never won anything and the whole jail is congratulating me. Our jail was never told about your newspaper – but in November 2024 it just showed up and all 120 girls love it. So please, please keep it up. We eagerly await it every month here.
Steven, from a prison in WA
Hi thanks for your reply to my letter, it’s always good to receive mail in prison, it helps to break up what can be a boring existence.
Kane, from a prison in TAS
We may be seen as criminals but we are also human beings who have rights, rights that are being stripped from us. Thank you to all the About Time team, you have given us all a voice, lets hope it can be heard.
Shaun, from a prison in NSW
Thank you for your work publishing this paper. I enjoy reading and it has been a source of positivity and help for me since entering custody.
Storm, from a prison in TAS
Your newspaper is fantastic and is extremely valuable, sharing experiences and knowledge between prisons in all states of Australia as well as the world - Helping all gain insight into practices and procedures as well as outlining certain indiscrepencies. It is wonderful to see such a vast array of people writing in to share their views, feelings and sharing their lived experiences within the system. Thank you to all those involved and keep up the great work!
Jeff, from a prison in QLD
Thanks again for your publication.
Simon, from a prison in NSW
The articles and stories you read in 'About Time' and other outlets change lives. They have the power to help people to make informed choices. And they can also inspire readers to think in different ways and try different things. Being a writer is exciting and rewarding. So, this article is for all those people who have tinkered with the idea of penning a story. This publication, like all publications, is always on the lookout for fresh talent.
Bryn, from a prison in QLD
Thank you for your newspaper. I look forward to reading it each month. It’s great! I enjoyed it from the first time I read it last year. It’s made me feel connected, seen and heard. When I first went to jail I felt really alone and your newspaper helped me so much. Someone – well lots of someones – got how I felt. They understood. Thank you for that. Keep up the hard work – we need you guys.
George, from a prison in VIC
Thanks for reading.
Susbcriber
Dear About Time, Thank you for the service you do in providing a voice for those inside and outside.
Laura, donor
Keep up the amazing work Rosie and crew.
Rebecca, from a prison in QLD
Thank you to all who created 'About Time' and for making it work. I am a deaf prisoner who is quite isolated within isolation. The newspaper is like a light at the end of a tunnel. Thank you.
J, from a prison in VIC
Hello, firstly I must congratulate you for your latest publication and I must tell you that many people including officers read and enjoy it, so keep it up.
Kyle, from a prison in VIC
To Denham Sadler,
I liked what you wrote in the December edition.
David, from a prison in NSW
Thank you and congratulations on the publication of the national prisoner's newspaper, "About Time".
Your initiative is offering many the "therapy" necessary to earn back self-respect and enabling them to choose to find a purpose for good, while they make their amends during their incarceration.
They say: "The pen is mightier than the sword". To see their contributions in print will be the first time for some that they have been "heard" and may enable them with respect to transform their lives - to honestly rehabilitate.
The paper is well-read and discussed. The smiles on faces knowing some of the contributors is encouraging.
Micky, from a prison in NSW
In all this time, we have so badly needed exactly what 'About Time' newsletters provide. So many of us incarcerated greatly appreciate the space you guys provide for us all to stay connected, for the sense of community it creates and the information you provide that we otherwise would never have. So thank you About Time! Thanks for taking the time to read my letter. Thanks again, you guys are great!
Bray, from a prison in NSW
I appreciate your time and I love your paper and its content.
Belly, from a prison in QLD
Thanks again for the great content in the March 2025 issue.
Andrew, from a prison in TAS
Thanks for giving me the opportunity to write to you guys. Once I’ve got my course completed, I will write again about what we need out there in the community to stay out of this place.
Staff Member, from a prison in NSW
The June addition has arrived and has been distributed. The ladies were all reading it and some are now contacting Women’s Advocacy Service from the article, just some recognition of what your paper does to get the word out about amazing new services. Thank you.
Dale, from a prison in QLD
Firstly, thank you for all your effort. We love your newspaper, Its good to find out what’s going on at other prisons all over Australia plus it’s always full of helpful information that can help us along our journey plus help us reintegrate back into the community.
Ahmed, from a prison in VIC
Thanks for publishing my article in Issue 14. Reading through it, I came across another article that got my attention: "The Dark Side of Gains" by Ronin Cruise. Anyway, great paper, keep it rolling.
Ashleigh, from a prison in VIC
This newspaper is a fantastic idea and I am glad it comes here.
Mark, formerly incarcerated in VIC
About Time has been a lifeline - when I was inside, it gave me a sense of purpose and feelings of camaraderie. The stories were really powerful. I have a chronic illness and suffer from intense pain, and writing for About Time has given me something to focus on and prevents me from going to dark places. Without About Time I don't know where I would be.
Carolyn, from a prison in VIC
Thank you Denham for writing back to me about the lockdowns happening here at DPFC. And I especially say thanks for your guidance in writing the article. Thank you again for all your help with this.
Staff member, from a prison in WA
I can tell you that the papers are very popular and are often requested from prisoners, and I have received positive feedback.
The Rooster, from a prison in WA
Wishing you and the other About Time staff many more stories and exciting journeys in finding them.
Aaron, from a prison in NSW
I thank you again for everything, the newspaper, your letters and the time you take reading mine. You have been an inspirational part of my journey and have helped contribute to my focus of change for a better and successful future and pursuit of living up to my true potential and ultimately striving to live my best possible life. Thank you.
Flame, from a prison in VIC
I'm recently been incarcerated just over two months now.Upon arrival the girls told me the poem I wrote was published. I was very excited.As I was very proud of this. I was hoping you could send me a copy?
Naomi, from a prison in WA
Firstly, thank you for the newspaper, I look forward to every new issue! It's an amazing opportunity to read everyones thoughts, feelings and experiences, as well as educate ourselves around the system and available resources and it provides me with a strong sense of connection.
Subscriber
It is valuable reading the impact of incarceration has on many.
Steve, formerly incarcerated writer
Hello Mini, Rosie,
Thank you so much. I feel humbly encouraged.I do believe that in my monologue about water, I went into a zone.
A zone that reflected a dark period, yet one in which I was able to tap into the sort of hope I felt when immersed in that life-giving, soul-nourishing water. I went to places, in that talk, I haven't been to for nearly 40 years. And that I've never spoken about, out loud. I worried at the start of the exercise whether I'd be able to recall anything with five-senses resolution. I was wrong.
Perhaps if I had people speechless, that's a good thing? Perhaps it brings us all back to the bone-deep reality of life inside; aneasthetises our senses for a moment, occasions a reset, and renders possible further externalising of experiences. Perhaps we, in trying to capture our prison experiences, teeter on the precipice of fear – and in that state, we pause before measuring if we have the strength to fully give of our experiences.
I do believe that I chose to leap into that chasm of fear, and give voice to one aspect of my experience of imprisonment. I think I succeeded.
Thank you so much for giving us all a forum, a platform to externalise our experiences. The hope is that it helps people inside to feel seen and validated, and humanised.
With great thanks,
Steve
Liam, donor
As someone who has been in custody multiple times over the past 3 decades, its been so exciting and heartening to see a newspaper for us and about our experiences.
Jon, from a prison in VIC
Once again, I offer congratulations for your May edition. Many of the artists here look forward to inspiration from the well presented artworks. Thanks again for your continued valuable publishing prints. Keep up the good work.
Johnathan, from a prison in VIC
Once again I offer congratulations for your January edition.
Robert, from a prison in NSW
First of all I would like to say what an awesome magazine – keep up the good work.
Subscriber
I subscribed last week and have just finished reading the paper edition of About Time. I wanted to write to say 'congratulations'. The paper is a remarkable achievement, a rare and valuable 'good thing' in a difficult and draining system. I am particularly impressed with the paper's focus on fostering community, as well as its national scope.
I showed a copy to my client today and he confirmed that copies have been freely available to him during his last stint on remand in Victoria. He says that it has helped him to start thinking about the Redress Scheme and whether he may be eligible for compensation.
I am impressed by the positive tone of the paper, and the contributions from persons in custody.
Reading the paper made me want to contribute somehow… well done, keep up the good work.
Anastasia, from SQCC
Hello to About Time, and all readers everywhere.
Sometimes when I'm alone I enjoy writing to try and take my mind from where I am. This is one of the poems. I hope you enjoy! Thanks a lot for providing me the opportunity to express myself and my thoughts to my fellow incarcerated people! Keep your head high guys and girls… Let them lock up our bodies but never our minds...
Adrianna, donor
Thank you for everything you do. An amazing and important initiative that has to keep existing.
Garth, from a prison in QLD
I really liked the Bits & Pieces section – more of that would be great.
Could you please include more two-person games or activities we can do in our cells when locked in?
Is there any possibility of starting a pen pal system, where people can write in and be connected with others?
I'd love to see articles on how to write better – anything to help us improve.
Thanks for the paper – it's something a lot of us look forward to.
Jackson, from a prison in QLD
About Time can help others relate to stories or cope and could possibly help others think more positive.
Kelly, from a prison in NSW
Thank you for your continued hard work to put together such an amazing magazine for all inmates, and may Peace, love and happiness touch everyone.
David, from a prison in NSW
Here, identity is often reduced to our MIN number, our sense of personhood is eroded day by day. Yet when an inmate's words or artwork appear in About Time, that person is recognised again as fully human, capable of thought, creativity, and contribution. There is no other service in Australia that reaches us in this way.
Andrew, from a prison in NSW
I would love to hear back from you guys. Please let me know what you think. I have much more writing I can send in, and if you have any advice on how I can build and develop a career as a writer and also how I can improve my writing, it would be greatly appreciated.
Karen, donor
Love your work!!
Sam, from a prison in NSW
I've been reading your newspapers for a while now, all the way back to Issue 1, and I suppose, like some people, I had my doubts about the longevity as I've seen many things that can be informative and beneficial to us all just fade into nothing in a short period of time. So far, so good, and I do enjoy reading peoples' letters with meaningful dialogue, so I hope and pray that, through all our interests and contributions, you're in it for the long haul. Sincerely and with thanks for all that you're doing for all and sundry.
Steve, a formerly incarcerated contributor
Thank you most kindly for your words about my latest article, 'When Your Mind Turns Against You: Understanding Depression in Prison.' It came straight from the heart.
Together we can effect positive change, and About Time is a blessed resource for doing just that. Your work is immensely meaningful.
Maurice, donor
Continue the great work – you make a real difference.
Luke, from a prison in TAS
Thanks for your time and effort.
Michael, from a prison in QLD
Dear About Time,
Firstly, I love you newspaper.
David, from a prison in NSW
The men in these four pods enjoy the material. I continue to encourage them to read and write!!
Look forward to July issue.
Subscriber
Thank you for what you do for Australian prisoners and their families.
Subscriber
Thanks Edith. I like to receive the paper – it's good to hear from people with lived experience for my role.
Steven, from a prison in WA
Great to get your paper, this only about our 3rd copy.
So, keep them coming. It's great to read other people’s stories.
Answering your survey, I found it was great to stimulate my brain.
I am 68 years old and I get very little stimulus in here. I have a lot of pain and can’t walk.
Brody, from a prison in QLD
Dear About Time thanks for your tireless efforts in making a little brightness in an otherwise dull place. I especially would like to thank you for your reply paid letters between calls and munchies.
Nathan, from a prison in VIC
I read the About Time newspaper every month, and I'm always looking forward to next month's one! This is my first time writing to you guys, and I want to thank you for reading my letter.
The Black Wraith, from a prison in VIC
Hello, firstly I must congratulate you for your latest publication and I must tell you that many people including officers read and enjoy, so keep it up.
Subscriber
Thank you for taking the time to read and consider this submission.
I know it would mean a lot to my partner if he saw it in your paper. He reads it religiously. Inside and out.
Subscriber
I've just listened to Joseph's podcast on ABC RN. What a relatable, informative and honest conversation!
Those articles, by other prisoners he doesn't know, somehow lessen the physical and mental isolation often experienced.
Jeff, from a prison in QLD
I will continue to send in creative writing pieces. Thanks again for all your encouragement. It means a great deal to me.
Andrew, from a prison in TAS
Hey guys, I love getting the chance to read about other prisoners all around the country each month and thought I would share my story.
Jon, from a prison in VIC
Hello, I write to congratulate you on your informative/entertaining magazine and I was sorry when the Justice Action magazine folded up years ago because I was a regular contributor and great fan of their publication. Now you are here to fill a much needed gap in prison life. Can you please place me on your mailing list and I look forward to receiving further editions.
Luke, from a prison in NSW
Firstly I wish to thank all of you that make it possible for your newspaper to to be circulated on a monthly basis, and allow inmates that are currently in custody to address issues that our judicial system chooses to ignore. So in a way your paper lets us have a voice in which I would like to say thank you.
Bradley, from a prison in TAS
And just want to say a big thank you to About Time newspaper and other inmates in custody/jail remember to smile every day :)
Johnny, from a prison in NSW
Greetings to you all! My name is Johnny and I am currently locked up in NSW. Reading all the letters sent by everyone over the past four issues of 'About Time' has been such an eye-opener for me. I've found myself looking forward to the next issue to see and learn from other peoples' experiences that they so bravely share with us! Reading everyone's personal experiences and advice has affected me in such a positive way that I finally decided to put pen to paper and share some of my own experiences over the past three years and the changes I have made that may change your life, as they did mine.
Subscriber
Thank you for providing a platform for connection and creative expression for the most marginalised cohorts in our communities. People who write in prison authentically honestly and vulnerably in the stories and experiences they share. Articles and contributions read as authentic, honest and raw.
Staff Member, from a prison in NSW
I gave paper copies of AT out to inmates with tablets today, and got a round of applause for it. One guy said it’s the best thing anyone has done for them, so yes please, keep them coming. I will promote it internally. Inmates said it was like being reconnected with the world again.
