CQUniversity Alumnus Nicole Alexander visited Rockhampton for the first time for the launch of her first novel The Bark Cutters.

Despite completing a Masters in Creative Writing degree at the University she never stood on campus. She studied remotely from her country property near the NSW-QLD border, an experience she endorses to anyone looking at becoming a writer.

She was overwhelmed at the support she received from the University through her online course.

"I would check the library website for material and within a few days it was at my door."

This week (Wednesday, May 26) she spent time talking with budding writers, avid readers and students from a variety of fields, while signing copies of her new book.

The Bark Cutters is a gripping family saga where the past and present interweave in a story that traces the Gordon family from the arrival of Scottish immigrant Hamish Gordon in the 1850s to the life of his great granddaughter, Sarah.

The sequel to the book is currently being developed and will be released early next year.

Nicole is a fourth-generation grazier working full-time on her family property located 110km north-west of Moree.

She had previously left the property for a glamorous life and good job in the city, but has now returned to run the property and write in her spare time.

During her visit to Rockhampton she will also be speaking at the Rockhampton Regional Council Library.