After years of procrastination and indecision, another of the Far North's most talented songwriters will launch her debut EP tomorrow night at Terry Doyle's Songwriters On The Waterfront at Mondo Cafe & Bar.

Shirley Lynn, known on stage simply as "Shirl", has been a regular on the Cairns' music scene for many years, but has always stalled at writing her album.

Through a series of shows at Songwriters On The Waterfront, alongside a bit of friendly encouragement from Terry Doyle, Shirl has finally completed her first six-track CD, humorously titled It's About Time.

It's About Time also features guitar and keyboard tracks from popular local musician Chris Ellis, and flute by Morag Gane.

She says it can't come quickly enough.

"Each time I'd go to do it, I'd procrastinate and stall," she says.

"In the process of creating this CD, I've had to remind myself that learning is about the journey and not perfection alone. In fact it is better to take some steps, however small, instead of doing nothing at all.

"Launching my debut CD is a celebration of this process, moving beyond what I knew before to what I know now, to stand tall and share my work appreciating the experience and knowing the effort that has gone into it."

She also thanked Terry for his gentle, persistent encouragement.

"Recording at Grumpy Old Man Studios with Terry Doyle has given me insight into the process and I acknowledge Terry's effort, commitment and professionalism throughout the whole process," she says.

"Terry has been a great mentor and his staunch support for original music here in the North Queensland region is notable."
Now the EP is finished, Shirl plans to travel with her husband throughout Australia, performing "wherever will have her" and hopefully selling a few CDs.

Shirl launches It's About Time at Terry Doyle's Songwriters On The Waterfront at Mondo Cafe & Bar tonight, from 7pm. Support from Louarde, Rebecca Langtree, Ray-Lee, Mel Irvine and more. Entry is free, but bookings are recommended on 4052 6780.

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