Torc Writers Group
Several years ago I attended a writing workshop through the Vic Writers Centre. A group of us that attended were so enthused by the weekend that we formed a writers group. We found a regular venue, gave ourselves the name ‘Torc’ and have been meeting every two months for the last three years. To Nick, Miranda, Pam, Marie, Peter and Lizzy - thank you for your insightful crits, mind bending stories, endless encouragement, laughs aplenty and your no-stops commitment to writing.
Clarion South
I would like to thank the folk at Clarion South for organising this six week, intensive workshop for science fiction short story authors. What an excellent opportunity for Australian (and southern hemisphere writers) to be able to work with and learn from established authors. For more info on Clarion South, visit their website at www.clarionsouth.org.
Varuna - The Writers House
In the tradition of Eleanor Dark, Varuna has been offering writers retreats and masterclasses for many years. In May 2005 I spent an incredible week working in the studio. Peter Bishop, the program director, is a very encouraging influence, providing coaching to me on a novel project I’m working on presently. It’s a real surprise to see for yourself how much you can write with a whole week, no distractions and time to walk, reflect and write. This is one of the only programs in Australia that offers this type of support and experience for writers. Visit www.varuna.com.au.
Cate Kennedy
Cate Kennedy is a fantastic writer. I was lucky enough to have had the chance to work with her through the Victorian Writer’s Centre grant. Her short stories are incredible and have won The Age Short Story Competition twice. In 2005 she published a non-fiction work ‘Sing and Don’t Cry’, which has been followed up with a collection of her short stories in ‘Dark Roots‘.
Victorian Writer’s Centre
The Victorian Writer’s Centre offers ‘Young and Emerging Mentorhips Grants’ on an annual basis. These grants provide financial support for up to 20 hours of tuition with an established author. In 2005, I was the recipient of one of these grants (working with Cate Kennedy). It was an amazing experience. Stories I worked on during the mentorship include The Embankment and Metronome.
Jack Dann ‘Crafting The Fabulous’ Workshop
Jack Dann is a well known science fiction writer and editor. Now and then he hosts a two day workshop called ‘Crafting The Fabulous’ through the Victorian Writers Centre. In 2004 I attended, along with ten other students that were twitching to improve our writing. It was a great introductory workshop, with lots of tips for emerging writers. I’ve been meeting with six of the students I met during the workshop every two months since!’
Linny
And of course, a big thank you to my partner in crime, who’s always there for me and provides endless support, Linny.