Thursday, November 26, 2009
Grammar and Punctuation - the rules; Book Giveaway; Kick-start your creative writing; Learn online - magazine writing; Self-publishing success
In this issue:
- How you can be a self-publishing success story
- TIP: Do you take the alternate or the alternative?
- Give your writing power with Grammar and Punctuation
- Book Giveaway - Australian Tragic by Jack Marx
- Kick-start your writing with our Creative Writing 5-day intensive
- Word wise: A short history of the book blurb
- Learn online - Feature Writing for Magazines and Newspapers
- WEBPICK: Gus the Boxer
Wow, what a week it's been. I'm so glad to be home with my furry babies (pictured with Rex here) after my travels. While I was at the conference I went to, I met so many people who have embraced the concept of self-publishing. Especially business owners or those who want to write a non-fiction book. And I just received news that Sydney Writers' Centre success stories, Louise Woodbury and William de Ora - who wrote The Invisible Entrepreneur - have just had their book listed in Amazon. Well done!
Louise and William are a great example of a self-publishing success. Here's a short video from their book launch.
If you're interested in self-publishing your non-fiction book, our next seminar is coming up soon.
Seminar: Self-publishing - How to do it with Geoff Bartlett
When: Wednesday 9 December 2009 (2-hour evening seminar)
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $75
Click here for more information or to enrol online.
TIP: Do you take the alternate or the alternative?
This question was sent to Grammar Girl recently and I realised that I also see this mistake a lot in Australian writing:
Does it bother anyone else when a reporter suggests an ‘alternate’ route instead of an ‘alternative’ one?
The right word in this case is, in fact, ‘alternative’. When used as an adjective it means ‘allowing or affording a choice between two or more options’ or ‘a choice is available in place of something else’. Alternate means ‘every other’ or ‘interchanged repeatedly’. It can also mean ‘substitute’ when it’s used as an adjective, which explains why so many people get it and ‘alternative’ confused.
Here are some examples of the correct uses for both words:
‘We’re suggesting an alternative route.’ (meaning there are options)
‘The lawyers selected three alternate jurors.’ (meaning substitute jurors)
‘He fasted on alternate days.’ (meaning every other day)
Give your writing power with Grammar and Punctuation
Here’s a little snippet from something we recently posted on our blog:
An English professor wrote the words ‘A woman without her man is nothing’ on the chalkboard and asked his students to punctuate it correctly.
All of the males in the class wrote ‘A woman, without her man, is nothing.’
All of the females in the class wrote ‘A woman: without her, man is nothing.’
Punctuation is powerful, and so is grammar. If you understand the basics of these principles, you’ll improve your own writing and be able to confidently correct the writing of others as well.
Our one-day Grammar and Punctuation seminar will give you the tools to transform your writing. You’ll come away with:
- knowledge that you can apply easily and immediately in your writing
- a clear understanding of how to treat common mistakes - such as apostrophes and plurals
- the basic rules you need to know to be confident in the workplace
- an understanding of when to bend, break or keep a rule or convention
- ability to discern when more than one solution is acceptable
- empowerment to justify your corrections to your own and other people's writing
- a taste of how professional editors approach their craft
- more confidence in applying the standard hard-copy editing marks to double-spaced copy
- and much more
Here’s what some recent participants had to say about the course:
‘I feel much more confident with the basic rules of grammar and punctuation that once baffled me.’
- Sunni Hughes
‘Deb was fantastic. She really knows her stuff. I now have a better basic knowledge of grammar and punctuation.’
- Stephanie Johnston
This seminar is presented by Deb Doyle, an experienced editorial-training consultant and publication editor. Deb has conducted courses for the Productivity Commission, AMP and Wizard Home Loans as well as many other corporate and government entities located in Sydney or Melbourne. Deb's courses are interactive and fun. You'll be amazed at how engaging and interesting a workshop in grammar and punctuation can be.
Grammar and Punctuation Essentials with Deb Doyle
When: Thursday 3 December 2009 (one-day seminar)
Time: 9.00am – 5.00pm
Cost: $395
Click here for more information or to enrol online.
Book giveaway
Our latest podcast interview is now available and this week we spoke to journalist, blogger and author, Jack Marx. His latest book is Australian Tragic: Gripping tales from the dark side of our history, a book of true stories from Australia’s ‘dark heart’.
Australian Tragic is about a nation that began its life as a stage for misfortune - and ever since has struggled to outgrow its birthright. These are gripping tales that take us into the heart of this country: tales of genuine catastrophe, of grand chances gone astray, of fools and their plans pathetically undone, of heartbreaking sadness and violent loss, and of both goodness and human evil. From Aboriginals being curious in an American circus to the story of Martin Bryant at Port Arthur, and from Bob Bungey, who survived The Battle of Britain, but couldn't face life when his young wife suddenly died soon after he came home - all these stories are told in a gripping narrative style, driven by eyewitness testimony, a solid sense of place, and a mood of impending doom. And we thought we knew our history...
We have one copy of Australian Tragic to giveaway. Just tell us what Australian story you think deserves to be told (in 25 words or less). Email your answers to courses [at] spindriftmedia [dot] com [dot] au by Friday 4 December 2009, and don’t forget to include your postal address.
Kick-start your writing in 5 days
We know many of you can’t make it to our evening classes so we’re now scheduling daytime classes as well. Our next daytime Creative Writing class will be held as an intensive course over one week – so you can now finish this incredibly popular course in just five days!
This course is for anyone who is interested in writing creative fiction. Whether it’s short stories, a novel, your life story - we'll help you start your writing journey.
This creative writing course will teach you how to:
- kick-start the creative writing process
- tap into your imagination
- draw from everyday experiences and memories
- examine different types of creative writing
- give structure to your writing
- use characters and dialogue
Here’s what some of our most recent participants had to say about the course:
‘It's been great to really think about what you are writing from the perspective of who your reader is… and if what you are writing is actually adding value! It has also been good to have the opportunity to share with others and have their feedback - as well as give your thoughts on other's writing.’
- Angela Duffy
‘Creative, positive and supportive environment, where ideas flow and imagination is allowed to express itself. I have a better understanding of the kind of commitment and passion needed to succeed in writing. I have only scratched the surface of my potential and this course has given me an opportunity to peek into what is possible and what I must do to make it happen.’
- Carlos Olles
This course is taught by Jeni Mawter, children’s author of the hilarious ‘So’ series: So Gross!, So Feral!, So Sick!, So Festy!, So Grotty! and So Stinky! (HarperCollins) as well as the Freewheelers series: Unleashed!, Launched! and Extreme! (HarperCollins). Unleashed! was shortlisted for the WAYRBA Older Readers Award 2009.
Jeni has also published fiction, non-fiction, poetry and verse narrative for the education market. With a Master of Arts in Children’s Literature and a Diploma in Book Editing and Publishing Jeni has taught creative writing for many years at Macquarie University and at writers' centres. Her enthusiasm for words and books is infectious.
Creative Writing 5-day Intensive with Jeni Mawter
When: Monday 11 to Friday 15 January 2010 (five consecutive days)
Time: 10.00am – 12 noon
Cost: $395
Click here for more information or to enrol online.
Word wise: A short history of the book blurb
The book blurb is now an essential part of a book’s marketing campaign. Those artfully written descriptions are no more than one or two paragraphs long, but they’re what make you buy a book (or put it back on the shelf). So, where do blurbs come from?
The first ever book blurb was written by author Gellett Burgess in 1907, for his book Are You a Bromide? He was not happy about having to approach famous people for a worthy quote for his book, as was expected of authors by their publishers, so he wrote his own! In a parody of the endorsements of the day, he created a character called Belinda Blurb. She acted as his celebrity and wrote a glowing review of his book, which appeared on the back cover along with a photo. This gave rise to the word blurb, which means ‘a short expression of written praise about a book, author, or similar work.’
Learn online – Feature Writing for Magazines and Newspapers
It’s hard to believe that 2009 is almost over! But there’s still time for you to complete our Online Feature Writing course before the year is out.
If you’re interested in writing for magazines and newspapers, and building your confidence enough to sell your work, then this course is for you. We’ll show you how to write good articles that editors will want.
By the end of this course, you will be able to:
- find ideas that work and know where to get them
- understand the magazine/news market
- analyse different types of feature articles
- research, structure and write a feature
- understand what editors want from a writer
- pitch your article or idea to a magazine and sell it!
Here’s what recent participant, Wendy Barilaro, had to say about the course:
‘I found each module equally enjoyable. I particularly enjoyed Valerie's presentation of each module and her audio feedback to comments and questions each week, which I found almost resembled a real life classroom situation. I also enjoyed the opportunity to interact with virtual classmates (and to meet one of them in real life) and I found the assignments very useful and practical.
I've had all of my questions answered about getting into freelance feature writing and now feel I have the confidence and knowledge to approach a publisher with a story idea. It was very easy and convenient to be able to do the course in my own time and not have to factor in travelling time, childcare etc. It gave me the chance to do a course that would not have otherwise been available in Canberra. The best thing I found was that most of it resembled a real life classroom but I had the flexibility to do it when it suited me.’
Online Feature Writing with Valerie Khoo
When: Week beginning Monday 30 November for five weeks
Time: Whenever suits you
Cost: $395
Click here for more information or to enrol online.
WEBPICK: Gus the Boxer
Meet Gus - a rare white boxer dog who likes red balls and people watching (from the window at Haul in Fitzroy, Melbourne). After being booted off Facebook (for not being a real person) Gus is back with a huge following on Twitter and now his very own 2010 calendar, which features my little doggie Rambo who is a regular at the Sydney Writers’ Centre.
Featuring some of Gus’ closest celebrity friends, including former Olympian Giann Rooney, the 2010 Gus calendar concept was born on twitter. Everyone involved in the project has donated their time free of charge, and all proceeds from the sale of the calendar will go to Lort Smith Animal Hospital in Melbourne.
Calendars are $25, or five for $100, and are on sale now at www.gustheboxer.com - just in time for Christmas.
Other upcoming courses
Course: Online Feature Writing Stage 1 with Valerie Khoo
When: Week beginning Monday 30 November 2009 for five weeks
Time: Whenever suits you
Cost: $395
Seminar: Travel Writing with Geoff Bartlett
When: Wednesday 2 December 2009 (2-hour evening seminar)
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $75
Seminar: Grammar and Punctuation Essentials with Deb Doyle
When: Thursday 3 December 2009 (one-day seminar)
Time: 9.00am - 5.00pm
Cost: $395
Seminar: Self-publishing - How to do it with Geoff Bartlett
When: Wednesday 9 December 2009 (2-hour evening seminar)
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $75
Course: Creative Writing Stage 1 5-day Intensive course with Jeni Mawter
When: Monday 11 January - Friday 15 January 2010 (5 consecutive days)
Time: 10.00am - 12noon
Cost: $395
Course: Online Creative Writing with Cathie Tasker/Pamela Freeman
When: Week beginning Monday 11 January 2010 for five weeks
Time: Whenever suits you
Cost: $395
Course: Crime Writing Workshop with Marele Day - NEW DATE
When: Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 January 2009 (2-day workshop)
Time: 9.30am - 4.30pm
Cost: $395
Course: Marketing Your Book with Amanda Falconer
When: Every Monday starting Monday 18 January 2010 for three weeks
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $265
Course: Script Writing for the Short Films with Geoff Bartlett
When: Wednesday 20 January and Wednesday 27 January 2010 (two evening seminars)
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $165
Course: Travel Writing with Geoff Bartlett
When: Thursday 21 January 2010 (2-hour morning seminar)
Time: 10.00am - 12 noon
Cost: $75
Course: Life Writing with Patti Miller
When: Every Friday starting Friday 22 January 2010 for six weeks
Time: 10am - 12noon
Cost: $450
Seminar: Blogging for Business with Steven Lewis
When: Thursday 28 January 2010 (one-day seminar)
Time: 9.30am - 4.30pm
Cost: $365
Course: Feature Writing for Magazines and Newspapers with Pamela Wilson
When: Every Thursday starting Thursday 28 January 2010 for five weeks
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $395
Seminar: How to get your book published with Geoff Bartlett
When: Tuesday 2 February 2010 (2-hour evening seminar)
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $75
Course: Writing Books for Children and Young Adults with Judith Ridge
When: Every Wednesday starting Wednesday 3 February 2010 for five weeks
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $395
Course: Online Writing Books for Children and Young Adults with Judith Ridge - NEW COURSE
When: Week beginning Monday 8 February 2010 for five weeks
Time: Whenever suits you
Cost: $395
Course: Professional Business Writing with Mel Wilkinson
When: Thursday 11 February 2010 (one-day seminar)
Time: 9.00am - 5.00pm
Cost: $395
Course: Travel Writing with Geoff Bartlett
When: Monday 15 February 2010 (2-hour morning seminar)
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $75
Course: Creative Writing Stage 1 with Pamela Freeman
When: Every Tuesday starting Tuesday 16 February 2010 for five weeks
Time: 6:30 - 8:30pm
Cost: $395
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Thursday, November 19, 2009
In this issue:
- TIP: Up with which we will not put!
- Give the gift of writing
- Self-publishing – where to start and what to do
- Alan Marshall Short Story Award
- Market your book and improve sales
- Did you know? Quo Vadis
- Learn the essentials of Grammar and Punctuation
- Word wise: Where do Eggs Benedict come from?
- WEBPICK: Voyager Online
As regular readers will know, I've just been in New York City and have only arrived back home in Sydney today. One of the cool places I stumbled on in New York was this bookstore (pictured) - Partners & Crime in Greenwich Avenue. It's a character-filled place with signed first editions and new releases, and boasts being the largest mystery store in Manhattan. I could have stayed there for hours! You don't have to travel so far to get your dose of mystery and crime because our Crime Writing Weekend Workshop with Marele Day is back!
This workshop is ideal if you want to explore the world of crime in your fiction writing. You'll learn how to write crime that’s credible and create a plot that will work.
Here’s what some of our recent participants had to say about the workshop:
‘The presenter was very knowledgeable - the content was excellent and the size of the group was good. I feel I am better equipped to continue on with my novel and am certainly more inspired and motivated.’
- Kate Walter
‘The presenter was great. She's obviously very experienced and well connected in industry and was very generous in sharing her experiences. The course was a good balance of structure and diversion from outline where appropriate. I took home lots of really valuable information and leads on resources. I definitely feel a lot more confident about the process of writing and know where I had gaps and how I can fill them.’
- Karen Allen
Crime Writing Weekend Workshop with Marele Day
When: Saturday 16 & Sunday 17 January 2010 (two-day workshop)
Time: 9.30am – 4.30pm
Cost: $395
Click here for more information or to enrol online.
TIP: Up with which I will not put! What’s wrong with this sentence?
I’ve seen this quote before but a recent blog post I found about it’s supposed author, Winston Churchill, reminded me of it.
Ending a sentence with a preposition is something up with which I will not put.
There’s some conjecture about whether he said it or not, but it does raise an interesting question. Is it really so bad to end your sentences with a preposition? For example, what’s really wrong with this?
Ending a sentence with a preposition is something I will not put up with.
Well, nothing. According to Mark Tredinnick in his Little Red Writing Book, it’s now perfectly OK to end a sentence with a preposition. If it sounds right in conversation, then it’s fine to write it as well.
Give the gift of writing
Well, it’s almost Christmas – again! That means braving the frantic Christmas crowds in search of the perfect gift. Or, if you want to avoid the usual stress of present buying, you could go with a gift voucher from the Sydney Writers’ Centre. You can buy a voucher for a particular course or for a dollar amount to go towards a course.
So, if you know someone who’s always wanted to write their life story, or thinks they have what it takes to write for magazines and newspapers, or just wants to kickstart their creative writing, then give them a gift that could see their writing dreams come true.
To order a gift voucher just phone us in the office on (02) 9929 9237.
Self-publishing - where to start and what to do
If you’re a Matthew Reilly fan then you’ll know that his latest book, The Five Greatest Warriors, has just been released. Of course, he has a publisher now, but his very first book, Contest, was self-published – and it was with this book that he began his career as a blockbuster author.
If you’re thinking about self-publishing but aren’t sure where to start, then this seminar is for you. Self-publishing is useful for business owners or professionals who may want to publish a book in their field, and for other non-fiction books.
This seminar will cover:
- self-publishing versus commercial publishing
- the steps to successful self-publishing
- the importance of editing and layout
- how to get your book printed
- marketing and distributing your book
- what's it all going to cost?
This seminar is presented by Geoff Bartlett who is an author, journalist, actor and producer. He has filed articles and interviews for over 20 major newspapers and magazines around the country, including The Sydney Morning Herald, Courier Mail, Canberra Times, West Australian and Australian Style.
Self-publishing: How to do it with Geoff Bartlett
When: Wednesday 9 December 2009 (two-hour seminar)
Time: 6.30 – 8.30pm
Cost: $75
Click here for more information or to enrol online.
Alan Marshall Short Story Award 2010
To celebrate its 25th year, the Alan Marshall Short Story Award is accepting entries from writers all over Australia. Dedicated to the writer and former Eltham, Victoria resident, Alan Marshall, the competition is for short stories up to 2,500 words long.
Prizes include $2,000 for the winning entry, and $1,000 for second prize. There’s also a $1,000 prize for a writer living in the Nillumbik Shire and $400 for a young writer with a story of up to 1,000 words.
Entries close on Friday 5 February 2010. This year’s judge is writer Michael McGirr. He’s written many short stories himself and also wrote Things You Get For Free. (We recently interviewed Michael for our podcast series. Check it out here).
Click here for more information and an entry form.
Market your book and improve sales
Walk into any bookstore and you’ll instantly see why marketing is so important. Sometimes, it’s not enough to get your book on the shelf – you need to let people know it’s there! That’s where your marketing plan comes in.
If you’re in the process or writing your book or have just self-published it, or you have a mainstream publisher but want to give your title a marketing boost, then this three-week course is perfect for you.
This course will teach you:
- the importance of positioning your book – who its for and where you find this target market
- positioning yourself - what’s your author brand all about?
- how to choose the most appropriate promotional tactics
- what your publisher does (if you have one) and when they do it – and what they want from you. Also, find out what they don’t do.
- how to prepare for media interviews
- how to generate your own PR long after your publisher has moved on to the next title
- how to promote your book using smart online strategies – do you need a website, blog, online video or a social media presence?
- case studies on online book marketing ideas that you can model.
Here’s what some of our recent participants had to say about the course:
‘Amanda knew her stuff and gave us clear guidelines on how to market our book. She also gave me a reality check as to what’s needed to successfully market a book. I now have a clear, practical, structured approach to marketing my book.’
- Kamal Weerakoon
‘Amanda is a vibrant, energetic presenter who believes in what she teaches. She is experienced and well prepared, using a variety of methods to convey her message, and convinced me that I should pay more attention to the marketing side of authorship. I now have a pan to follow when the time is right. Amanda gave us valuable skills, links and resources, dispelling the fear of self-promotion.’
- Jennie Ross
This course is presented by Amanda Falconer who is a brand and marketing expert with over 20 years experience across industries ranging from the rag trade to building and now, books. Amanda is currently the national marketing manager of the Australian division of a global manufacturing company. She is executive editor of LookHome magazine and producer of myLOOKHOMEtv. She is also author of The Renovator’s Survival Guide. Since the book’s launch, she has been featured on Sunrise, 9am with David & Kim, A Current Affair, as well as numerous radio interviews including ABC Radio in Melbourne, Hobart, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide, as well as 3AW and 2CA.
Marketing Your Book with Amanda Falconer
When: Mondays starting Monday 18 January 2010 for 3 weeks
Time: 6.30 – 8.30pm
Cost: $265
Click here for more information or to enrol online.
Did you know? Quo vadis?
You may have heard of the film Quo Vadis? starring Robert Taylor and Deborah Kerr. There are also books, songs and other films with the same name. But where did it come from?
"Quo vadis" (kwoh vah-dis) is actually Latin for "Where are you going?"
Sure, it's unlikely you'll be shouting "Quo Vadis?" to your kids as they walk out the door when they should be doing their homework. But next time you see it, at least you'll know that it comes from the language of ancient times and was asked when people were going on a long journey.
Congratulation to Pamela Freeman!
One of our most popular creative writing teachers, Pamela Freeman, has just published the third book in her Castings Trilogy – Full Circle. Following on from Blood Ties and Deep Water, this latest book has already garnered many favourable reviews and we’re sure it will be another big success for Pamela.
You can learn more about Pamela’s Castings Trilogy at www.castingstrilogy.com.
Learn the essentials of Grammar and Punctuation
Learning grammar should not strike fear into your heart! Having a grasp of basic grammar and punctuation can really improve your writing and that of those whose work you may be correcting.
This one-day seminar will give you knowledge you can apply immediately to your writing.
You'll come away with:
- a clear understanding of how to treat common mistakes - such as apostrophes and plurals
- the basic rules you need to know to be confident in the workplace
- an understanding of when to bend, break or keep a rule or convention
- ability to discern when more than one solution is acceptable
- empowerment to justify your corrections to your own and other people's writing
- a taste of how professional editors approach their craft
- more confidence in applying the standard hard-copy editing marks to double-spaced copy
- and much more
Here’s what some recent participants had to say about the seminar:
‘FANTASTIC KNOWLEDGE from Deb Doyle, she is very enthusiastic about her subject and is a strong communicator, able to answer all questions in a fun and memorable way. I learnt SO MUCH in one day. The course was exactly what I’d hoped it would be.’
- Fiona Goldsworthy
‘The reference book was very comprehensive and will be an excellent resource for the future. I have gained confidence with future report writing and grammer and punctuation skills.’
- Jo Porter
The workshop is presented by Deb Doyle, an experienced editorial-training consultant and publication editor. Deb has conducted courses for the Productivity Commission, AMP and Wizard Home Loans as well as many other corporate and government entities located in Sydney or Melbourne. Deb's courses are interactive and fun. You'll be amazed at how engaging and interesting a workshop in grammar and punctuation can be.
Grammar and Punctuation Essentials with Deb Doyle
When: Thursday 3 December 2009 (one-day seminar)
Time: 9.00am – 5.00pm
Cost: $395 Includes comprehensive text-workbook Grey Areas and Gremlins: A grammar and punctuation refresher (valued at $50).
Click here for more information or to enrol online.
WORD WISE: Where does “Eggs Benedict” come from?
One of my favourite meals is Sunday brunch and I’m pretty partial to eggs benedict. I know this does nothing for my waistline but it’s so yummy I can’t resist. However, do you know where the term “eggs benedict” comes from?
Way back in 1894, there was a playboy in New York City called Samual Benedict. In the city that never sleeps, he partied hard and lived a full life. After one hangover, he headed to the famous Waldorf-Astoria Hotel and ordered bacon, two poached eggs and toast with butter. He covered the whole thing with hollandaise sauce and hoped this high protein meal would keep him going. (No-Doz and Red Bull had not been invented yet!)
The maitre’d of the hotel liked the look of the meal and added it to the hotel’s menu calling it “Eggs Benedict”. So we have playboy Samuel to thank for what has now become a Sunday brunch staple.
WEBPICK: Voyager Online
This blog is for all you Speculative Fiction and Fantasy buffs! Voyager is the speculative-fiction/science-fiction/fantasy/horror arm of HarperCollins publishers in Australia. The blog features book reviews and news, as well as guest posts from some of Australia’s best known fantasy and sci-fi authors and reviewers.
So, if you want to know what’s happening in the world of ‘Imaginatrix’ visit Voyager Online. http://voyageronline.wordpress.com.
Other upcoming courses
Course: Creative Writing Stage 1 DAYTIME course with Jeni Mawter
When: Every Friday starting Friday 20 November 2009 for five weeks
Time: 10.00am - 12noon
Cost: $395
Course: Online Creative Writing with Cathie Tasker/Pamela Freeman
When: Week beginning Monday 23 November 2009 for five weeks
Time: Whenever suits you
Cost: $395
Course: Online Business Booster Bootcamp with Valerie Khoo
When: Tuesday 24 November 2009
Time: 9.30am - 5.30pm
Cost: $695
Seminar: How to get your book published with Geoff Bartlett
When: Tuesday 24 November 2009 (2-hour evening seminar)
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $75
Course: Professional Business Writing with Mel Wilkinson
When: Thursday 26 November 2009 (one-day seminar)
Time: 9.00am - 5.00pm
Cost: $395
Course: Online Feature Writing Stage 1 with Valerie Khoo
When: Week beginning Monday 30 November 2009 for five weeks
Time: Whenever suits you
Cost: $395
Seminar: Travel Writing with Geoff Bartlett
When: Wednesday 2 December 2009 (2-hour evening seminar)
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $75
Seminar: Grammar and Punctuation Essentials with Deb Doyle
When: Thursday 3 December 2009 (one-day seminar)
Time: 9.00am - 5.00pm
Cost: $395
Seminar: Self-publishing - How to do it with Geoff Bartlett
When: Wednesday 9 December 2009 (2-hour evening seminar)
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $75
Course: Creative Writing Stage 1 INTENSIVE DAYTIME course with Jeni Mawter
When: Monday 11 January - Friday 15 January 2010 (5 consecutive days)
Time: 10.00am - 12noon
Cost: $395
Course: Crime Writing Workshop with Marele Day - NEW DATE
When: Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 January 2009 (2-day workshop)
Time: 9.30am - 4.30pm
Cost: $395
Course: Marketing Your Book with Amanda Falconer
When: Every Monday starting Monday 18 January 2010 for three weeks
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $265
Course: Script Writing for the Short Films with Geoff Bartlett
When: Wednesday 20 January and Wednesday 27 January 2010 (two evening seminars)
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $165
Course: Travel Writing with Geoff Bartlett
When: Thursday 21 January 2010 (2-hour morning seminar)
Time: 10.00am - 12 noon
Cost: $75
Course: Life Writing with Patti Miller
When: Every Friday starting Friday 22 January 2010 for six weeks
Time: 10am - 12noon
Cost: $450
Seminar: Blogging for Business with Steven Lewis
When: Thursday 28 January 2010 (one-day seminar)
Time: 9.30am - 4.30pm
Cost: $365
Course: Feature Writing for Magazines and Newspapers with Pamela Wilson
When: Every Thursday starting Thursday 28 January 2010 for five weeks
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $395
Seminar: How to get your book published with Geoff Bartlett - NEW DATE
When: Monday 1 February 2010 (2-hour evening seminar)
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $75
Course: Writing Books for Children and Young Adults with Judith Ridge
When: Every Wednesday starting Wednesday 3 February 2010 for five weeks
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $395
Course: Online Writing Books for Children and Young Adults with Judith Ridge - NEW COURSE
When: Week beginning Monday 8 February 2010 for five weeks
Time: Whenever suits you
Cost: $395
Course: Creative Writing Stage 1 with Pamela Freeman
When: Every Tuesday starting Tuesday 16 February 2010 for five weeks
Time: 6:30 - 8:30pm
Cost: $395
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Thursday, November 12, 2009
Start your creative writing journey here; New Mardi Gras Writing Competition now open; Discover how to get your book published; Slim Ink Book Giveaway
In this issue:
- TIP: Have you drunk or drank?
- Start your creative writing journey here!
- New Mardi Gras Writing Competition
- Discover how to get your book published
- Slim Ink Book Giveaway - Maralinga by Judy Nunn
- Write for magazines and newspapers
- Did you know? Itinerary and itinerant
- WEBPICK: Editor Unleashed
I'm writing this from New York City where I’ve been absorbing some culture and hanging out at some of the fabulous book-stores here. This morning I visited The Metropolitan Museum of Art (here I am in front of 'Monet's Water Lilies') and yesterday hung out at The New York Public Library.
Here's some trivia for Carrie Bradshaw fans. Did you know that the book that featured in the movie – Love Letters of Great Men – which she borrowed from the New York Public Library, did not exist before the movie? Well, it sure does now and I have no doubt it sells well!
I've also been doing lots of research for our students to broaden our resources for you. I have some great ideas to share with our self-publishing students in the upcoming seminar presented by Geoff Bartlett. See you there!
Self-Publishing: How to do it with Geoff Bartlett
When: Wednesday 9 December 2009 (two-hour seminar)
Time: 6.30 – 8.30pm
Cost: $75
Click here for more information or to enrol online.
TIP: Have you drunk or drank?
Do you know when to use ‘drank’ instead of ‘drunk’? Grammar Girl does. Here’s her advice on which one to use.
‘Drank’ is the past tense of ‘drink’.
I drank juice yesterday.
‘Drunk’ is the past participle of ‘drink’, and you use it when you combine the main verb with a helping verb such as ‘have’.
I must have drunk juice for hours.
‘Drunk’ can also be an adjective and a noun.
John was hit by a drunk driver.
The drunk went to jail.
Start your creative writing journey here!
Less than a week to go until our first daytime Creative Writing course for the year and places are filling fast! If you’d like to explore the world of writing short stories, memoirs or a novel, this course will give you the boost you need to get started.
This is our most popular course – it’s a great way to ignite your creativity and meet other budding authors. You’ll also learn how to:
- kick-start the creative writing process
- tap into your imagination
- draw from everyday experiences and memories
- examine different types of creative writing
- give structure to your writing
- use characters and dialogue
Here’s what some recent participants had to say about the course:
‘[It is a] creative, positive and supportive environment, where ideas flow and imagination is allowed to express. I have a better understanding on the kind of commitment and passion needed to succeed in writing. I have only scratched the surface of my potential and this course has given me an opportunity to peek into what is possible and what I must do to make it happen.'
- Carlos Olles
‘I approach story-telling and my school lessons with more focus on the structure and engaging the reader/students. I enjoy hearing and reading stories more because I'm aware of the different dimensions that make a good story, especially the structure.’
- Callum Shipley
The course is taught by Jeni Mawter, the children’s author of the hilarious ‘So’ series: So Gross!, So Feral!, So Sick!, So Festy!, So Grotty! and So Stinky! (HarperCollins) as well as the Freewheelers series: Unleashed!, Launched! and Extreme! (HarperCollins). Unleashed! was shortlisted for the WAYRBA Older Readers Award 2009.
Jeni has also published fiction, non-fiction, poetry and verse narrative for the education market. With a Master of Arts in Children’s Literature and a Diploma in Book Editing and Publishing Jeni has taught creative writing for many years at Macquarie University and at writers' centres. Her enthusiasm for words and books is infectious.
Creative Writing DAYTIME course with Jeni Mawter
When: Friday mornings starting Friday 20 November 2009 for five weeks
Time: 10.00am – 12 noon
Cost: $395
Click here for more information or to enrol online.
When you hear the words Mardi Gras, you think parade, right? Well, there is another side to the celebrations around Sydney’s annual Gay & Lesbian New Mardi Gras. They also hold a writing competition and in 2010, Sydney Writers’ Centre is one of the sponsors! Here are some details from the New Mardi Gras website:
The theme for 2010 is ‘Making History'. Writers can interpret this any way they wish, however the story must feature New Mardi Gras values. Entrants need not identify as GLBTQ (gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and queer community), but the story must be GLBTQ themed. We have some truly amazing prizes this year so pick up your pen and get writing - we look forward to being entertained, amused, startled, inspired, gripped and seduced!
Stories should be no longer than 750 words and entered by 5pm on Monday 4 January 2010. Click here for an entry form and more information.
Discover how to get your book published
The path to publication can be a difficult one. Do you need an agent? How do you get a publisher to read your work? How do you negotiate a contract? These are all questions you should know the answers to before approaching a publisher.
How to get your book published is a two-hour seminar designed to give you the confidence to tackle the world of publishing. You will learn:
- how to write a winning book proposal
- how to approach publishers
- what an agent does
- how much you should write before approaching a publisher
- about the editing and re-writing process
Here’s what some recent participants had to say about the course:
‘Clear, easy to understand information, knowledgeable lecturer with quirky anecdotes. All my questions were answered. I thought it was a very good seminar process and I was surprised at how much fitted into two hours. The 'DREAM' is a lot more tangible!’
- Amber Rose Gabriel
‘Simply packed with information from start to finish, the seminar provided all the answers to questions that I have had for years about how books get published! I now have a definite plan to work towards in getting my first book published.’
- Lucy Marshall
This seminar is presented by Geoff Bartlett who is an author, journalist, actor and producer. He has filed articles and interviews for over 20 major newspapers and magazines around the country, including The Sydney Morning Herald, Courier Mail, Canberra Times, West Australian and Australian Style.
In 1999, Geoff's first book was published in Australia and New Zealand through Harper Collins. Comedians in the Mist was a series of interviews with top Australian comedians.
How to get your book published with Geoff Bartlett
When: Tuesday 24 November 2009 (two-hour seminar)
Time: 6.30 – 8.30pm
Cost: $75
Click here for more information or to enrol online.
Slim Ink Book Giveaway
Once again our good friends at Slim Ink have trawled through the new release lists for the month and picked out the very best for us to giveaway. This month’s book comes from Judy Nunn, former Home & Away star and prolific author. Her latest book is Maralinga.
MARALINGA is a story of British Lieutenant Daniel Gardiner, who accepts a twelve-month posting to the wilds of South Australia on a promise of rapid promotion; Harold Dartleigh, Deputy Director of MI-6 and his undercover operative Gideon Melbray; Australian Army Colonel Nick Stratton and the enigmatic Petraeus Mitchell, bushman and anthropologist. They all find themselves in a violent and unforgiving landscape, infected with the unique madness and excitement that only nuclear testing creates.
MARALINGA is also a story of love; a love so strong that it draws the adventurous young English journalist Elizabeth Hoffmann halfway around the world in search of the truth. And MARALINGA is a story of heartbreak; heartbreak brought to the innocent First Australians who had walked their land unhindered for 40,000 years.
If you’d like to win a copy of Maralinga tell us: What would you do for a promotion? Email your answers to courses [at] spindriftmedia [dot] com [dot] au by Friday 20 November 2009 and please remember to include your postal address.
Write for magazines and newspapers
If you dream of writing for magazines and newspapers but can’t make it to our face-to-face classes in Milsons Point then our Online Feature Writing course could be just what you’re looking for.
When you complete this course you’ll have the tools and the confidence to write articles and get them published.
By the end of this course, you will be able to:
- find ideas that work and know where to get them
- understand the magazine/news market
- analyse different types of feature articles
- research, structure and write a feature
- understand what editors want from a writer
- pitch your article or idea to a magazine and sell it!
Here’s what some recent participants had to say about the course:
‘[The course] was fantastic. The best thing is being able to do it when it suited me. I have three kids and a husband who does rotating shift work, so attending in person is near impossible, but this has afforded me the wonderful opportunity of learning as much as I have.’
- Diana Taylor
‘The information was practical and very informative. Valerie has a down to earth approach to tutoring which makes the course user friendly. Learning how to stucture my writing and having more insight into the media world has been a great benefit.’
- Kathy Newman
Online Feature Writing for Magazines and Newspapers with Valerie Khoo
When: Week beginning Monday 30 November for five weeks
Time: Whenever suits you
Cost: $395
Click here for more information or to enrol online.
Did you know? Itinerary and itinerant
Did you know that the word ‘itinerary’ comes from the Latin word ‘itinera’? These days, an ‘itinerary’ typically refers to a travel document that outlines your journey. Back in Roman times, the ‘itinera’ were the streets that only accommodated people who were on foot. They were almost like tracks, which existed because the cities kept growing, and these tracks often wove in and out of buildings. As well as the word ‘itinerary’, we also get the word ‘itinerant’, which means ‘travelling from place to place’.
For example:
I have just printed out my itinerary for travelling to Las Vegas and New York.
Fruit pickers are often itinerant workers who go wherever orchards need harvesting.
WEBPICK: Editor Unleashed
Editor Unleashed is a unique look at the publishing and writing industry from someone who knows. Maria Schneider is a former editor at Writer’s Digest magazine and is now a freelance writer and editor. Her blog is dedicated to helping other writers learn about their craft and the business of publishing. The blog features author interviews, competitions, and invaluable information for writers that might otherwise be hard to find.
Check it out here - http://editorunleashed.com. And be sure to enter the ‘Why I write’ essay competition that’s being held until 31 December 2009.
Other upcoming courses
Course: Creative Writing Stage 1 DAYTIME course with Jeni Mawter
When: Every Friday starting Friday 20 November 2009 for five weeks
Time: 10.00am - 12noon
Cost: $395
Course: Online Creative Writing with Cathie Tasker/Pamela Freeman
When: Week beginning Monday 23 November 2009 for five weeks
Time: Whenever suits you
Cost: $395
Course: Online Business Booster Bootcamp with Valerie Khoo
When: Tuesday 24 November 2009
Time: 9.30am - 5.30pm
Cost: $695
Seminar: How to get your book published with Geoff Bartlett
When: Tuesday 24 November 2009 (2-hour evening seminar)
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $75
Course: Professional Business Writing with Mel Wilkinson
When: Thursday 26 November 2009 (one-day seminar)
Time: 9.00am - 5.00pm
Cost: $395
Course: Online Feature Writing Stage 1 with Valerie Khoo
When: Week beginning Monday 30 November 2009 for five weeks
Time: Whenever suits you
Cost: $395
Seminar: Travel Writing with Geoff Bartlett
When: Wednesday 2 December 2009 (2-hour evening seminar)
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $75
Seminar: Grammar and Punctuation Essentials with Deb Doyle
When: Thursday 3 December 2009 (one-day seminar)
Time: 9.00am - 5.00pm
Cost: $395
Seminar: Self-publishing - How to do it with Geoff Bartlett
When: Wednesday 9 December 2009 (2-hour evening seminar)
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $75
Course: Creative Writing Stage 1 INTENSIVE DAYTIME course with Jeni Mawter
When: Monday 11 January - Friday 15 January 2010 (5 consecutive days)
Time: 10.00am - 12noon
Cost: $395
Course: Marketing Your Book with Amanda Falconer
When: Every Tuesday starting Tuesday 19 January 2010 for three weeks
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $265
Course: Script Writing for the Short Films with Geoff Bartlett
When: Wednesday 20 January and Wednesday 27 January 2010 (two evening seminars)
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $165
Course: Travel Writing with Geoff Bartlett
When: Thursday 21 January 2010 (2-hour morning seminar)
Time: 10.00am - 12 noon
Cost: $75
Course: Life Writing with Patti Miller
When: Every Friday starting Friday 22 January 2010 for six weeks
Time: 10am - 12noon
Cost: $450
Seminar: Blogging for Business with Steven Lewis
When: Thursday 28 January 2010 (one-day seminar)
Time: 9.30am - 4.30pm
Cost: $365
Course: Feature Writing for Magazines and Newspapers with Pamela Wilson - NEW DATE
When: Every Thursday starting Thursday 28 January 2010 for five weeks
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $395
Course: Writing Books for Children and Young Adults with Judith Ridge
When: Every Wednesday starting Wednesday 3 February 2010 for five weeks
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $395
Course: Creative Writing Stage 1 with Pamela Freeman
When: Every Tuesday starting Tuesday 16 February 2010 for five weeks
Time: 6:30 - 8:30pm
Cost: $395
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Thursday, November 05, 2009
Learn Creative Writing online; Judith Wright Poetry Prize; Improve your writing with Grammar and Punctuation Essentials; PM's Literary Award winners announced.
In this issue:
- TIP: In regard to...
- Learn creative writing online
- Judith Wright Poetry Prize
- Improve your writing with Grammar and Punctuation Essentials
- PM’s Literary Award winners announced
- Travel and write!
- Did you know? Invictus
- WEBPICK: apostrophe.me
I'm writing this from Las Vegas because I'm here for a conference this week. It's such a weird and wacky place - and I'm enjoying every minute of it. But I couldn't resist taking snaps that show you an example of how important it is to have a house style. If you've done one of our business writing courses, you'll know that a house style is a document that your company/business uses to ensure that language is used in a consistent way. This is particularly important when referring to specific products, trademarked items or important brands.
Even though I'm staying at a beautiful hotel called The Palazzo, check out this house style faux pas. There are some beautiful shops here - like Jimmy Choo, Burberry, Diane von Furstenberg and Michael Kors. And they are all in a place called The Shoppes at the Palazzo. I'm not sure why they've decided to use the fancy word "shoppes" - maybe it makes them sound grand. There are signs everywhere referring to "The Shoppes at the Palazzo" - in the casino, in the walkways, in the lobby, all over.
However, check out the sign in the lift. It says: "Shops at the Palazzo". When you're creating a hotel as fancy as this, you want to ensure you get your corporate branding right. And that's what your house style is for. So, no matter whether you are the CEO, secretary, publicist, concierge, or the person who makes the signs for the lift, you put forward a consistent corporate message because you always refer to your house style.
TIP: In regard to…
While we would normally suggest that you avoid ‘business english’ where possible, when it is appropriate to use, it’s important to get it right.
‘In regards to’ is often used in business letters or emails, and reports. For example:
‘In regards to your letter…’
But it’s incorrect! You don’t use the plural ‘regards’ in this sentence as you are only referring to one issue. Instead, you would use ‘In regard to your letter’. It means referring to, or concerning. You can also use ‘with regard to’.
Learn creative writing online
Just because you can’t get to our training room in Sydney doesn’t mean you can’t benefit from our great courses and experienced presenters. Our online creative writing course can be done from home, or wherever you are, whenever suits you.
This is one of our most popular courses. Designed for writers who want to explore the world of writing fiction, it will help you get started on your short story, memoir, or maybe even your novel!
This creative writing course will teach you how to:
- kick-start the creative writing process
- tap into your imagination
- draw from everyday experiences and memories
- examine different types of creative writing
- give structure to your writing
- use characters and dialogue
Here’s what some recent participants had to say about the course:
‘Being able to listen to the audio program whenever suited me was fantastic and it also meant I could go over the material whenever I wanted to. I also liked being able to interact with fellow classmates, which makes this course different to other online or distance courses.’
- Sharon Lutrell
‘I enjoyed listening to the lecture presentations each week. I intend to review each lesson quite a few times. It's many years since I sat in a classroom, but I think learning is a life long experience to enjoy and I ENJOYED this course. I now read more attentively and appreciate the written word so much, inspiring me to put my thoughts into words.’
- Judith Harding
Online Creative Writing with Cathie Tasker/Pamela Freeman
When: Week beginning Monday 9 November 2009
Time: Whenever suits you
Cost: $395
Click here for more information or to enrol online.
If you prefer to learn in a face-to-face class, we have a new daytime Creative Writing course coming up with Jeni Mawter.
Creative Writing Stage 1 DAYTIME course with Jeni Mawter
When: Friday mornings starting Friday 20 November 2009 for five weeks
Time: 10.00am – 12 noon
Cost: $395
Click here for more information or to enrol online.
The Judith Wright Poetry Prize
Overland Magazine is one of Australia’s premier literary magazines, so it’s fitting that it should also sponsor a major poetry prize. The Judith Wright Poetry Prize for New and Emerging Poets is worth $3,000 to the winner, and $500 to two runners up. Judith Wright was a committed activist and writer who published several poetry collections before her death in 2000.
You can enter a maximum of three unpublished poems for each entry, which costs $9.90. The closing date is Monday 7 December 2009 and the winner will be announced in May 2010 at the Emerging Writers’ Festival in Melbourne.
Click here for more information and an entry form.
Improve your writing with Grammar and Punctuation Essentials
Do you want to be able to tell the difference between ‘that’ and ‘which’, a verb and a noun, or understand the nine parts of speech? Understanding grammar and punctuation will help you tighten your writing and give you the confidence to make changes to other people's writing.
This one-day seminar will give the foundation needed to write and edit well. You’ll come away with:
- knowledge that you can apply easily and immediately in your writing
- a clear understanding of how to treat common mistakes - such as apostrophes and plurals
- the basic rules you need to know to be confident in the workplace
- an understanding of when to bend, break or keep a rule or convention
- ability to discern when more than one solution is acceptable
- empowerment to justify your corrections to your own and other people's writing
- a taste of how professional editors approach their craft
- more confidence in applying the standard hard-copy editing marks to double-spaced copy
- and much more
Here’s what some of our most recent participants had to say about the seminar:
‘FANTASTIC KNOWLEDGE from presenter Deb Doyle, very enthusiastic about her subject and a strong communicator, able to answer all questions in a fun and memorable way. I learnt SO MUCH in one day that I'd really like to do more study and/or courses. The course was exactly what I'd hoped it would be, very practical as well.’
- Fiona Goldsworthy
‘I enjoyed Deb Doyle's teaching style. I found the content interesting and it related to what I wanted to know. A lot of my questions were answered. I came away with a lot of specific knowledge which I needed to improve my skills as a fiction writer.’
- Joy Fotopoulos
This seminar is presented by Deb Doyle, an experienced editorial-training consultant and publication editor. Deb has conducted courses for the Productivity Commission, AMP and Wizard Home Loans as well as many other corporate and government entities located in Sydney or Melbourne. Deb's courses are interactive and fun. You'll be amazed at how engaging and interesting a workshop in grammar and punctuation can be.
Grammar and Punctuation Essentials with Deb Doyle
When: Thursday 3 December 2009 (one-day seminar)
Time: 9.00am – 5.00pm
Cost: $395. Includes comprehensive text-workbook Grey Areas and Gremlins: A grammar and punctuation refresher (valued at $50)
Click here for more information or to enrol online.
Writers’ Tent at the Newtown Festival
If you’re in the Inner West in Sydney you probably know all about the Newtown Festival. This annual event, held by the Newtown Neighbourhood Centre, features lots of music and performance as well as hundreds of food, craft and eco stalls. And it’s free!
There is also a writers’ tent, and this years line-up includes musician, writer and artist Reg Mombassa; author and broadcaster Richard Glover; and Booker Prize winner Thomas Keneally.
Check out the website for the full details of what’s happening in the writers’ tent.
PM’s Literary Award winners announced
This week the winners of the Prime Minister’s Literary Awards for 2009 were announced. The fiction prize was won by Nam Le for his collection of short stories, The Boat. The non-fiction prize was awarded to two books - House of Exile: The Life and Times of Heinrich Mann and Nelly Kroeger-Mann by Evelyn Juers and Drawing the Global Colour Line by Marilyn Lake and Henry Reynolds.
Congratulations to all the winning authors!
If you’d like more information about the books, or want to keep an eye out for 2010 entry details, check out the website.
Did you know? Invictus
I'm so looking forward to the new movie "Invictus". It stars Morgan Freeman as Nelson Mandela calling on the help of South Africa's rugby captain Francois Pienaar, played by Matt Damon (sporting a fairly convincing South African accent).
It's a story about how they used rugby and the 1995 World Cup event to try to unite a country that was still divided both economically and racially. I'm sure this is an Oscar contender!
However, did you know that the word "Invictus" actually comes from Latin? It means: "Unconquered".
Travel and write!
If you want to know what it takes to be a travel writer then you should not miss our next Travel Writing seminar. We’ll tell you all about the industry and how you can get your travel stories published.
Many of our former feature writing and travel writing participants have gone on to have stories about their favourite destinations published in magazines and newspapers all over Australia.
The seminar will cover:
- publishing opportunities (newspapers, magazines, electronic publishing, travel literature, guidebooks, other avenues)
- types of travel stories (service stories, destination stories, personal essays)
- some straight talk about earnings
- finding and focusing your story (the right subject, travel trends, developing your story)
- the art and craft of travel writing
- getting published and making contacts
- writing for travel guidebooks
Here’s what some recent participants had to say about the seminar:
‘I’ve gained more motivation to write and also found out the avenues to take to get articles published.’
- Tina Cicolini
‘[I enjoyed] the "real world" experience and advice. The fact that Geoff has worked in many different types of writing was great too. He was knowledgeable, friendly, and extremely encouraging. I’ve gained confidence to give writing a fair go!’
- Hillary Wild
This seminar is presented by Geoff Bartlett, who has worked as a freelance travel writer and photographer for magazines and websites for the last six years. His current areas of focus are the islands of the South Pacific and Asia. He is a regular contributor to Pacific Island Paradises and Asian Paradises.
Travel Writing EVENING seminar with Geoff Barlett
When: Wednesday 2 December 2009 (2-hour evening seminar)
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $75
Click here for more information or to enrol online.
WEBPICK: How to use an apostrophe
We’ve talked about apostrophes before in our Tips section, but I don’t think we’ve ever been able to explain it as well as this site does! ‘How to use an apostrophe’ is a humorous yet succinct explanation of the often perplexing apostrophe. Using a flowchart style, and some bizarre examples, it explains when to use and when not to use an apostrophe in your writing. It should be required reading for all sign writers!
Check it out here - http://apostrophe.me.
Other upcoming courses
Course: Feature Writing for Magazines and Newspapers with Pamela Wilson - FULL
When: Every Thursday starting Thursday 5 November 2009 for five weeks
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $395
Course: Travel Writing with Geoff Bartlett - FULL
When: Friday 6 November 2009 (2-hour morning seminar)
Time: 10.00am - 12 noon
Cost: $75
Course: Online Feature Writing Stage 1 with Valerie Khoo
When: Week beginning Monday 9 November 2009 for five weeks
Time: Whenever suits you
Cost: $395
Course: Online Creative Writing with Cathie Tasker/Pamela Freeman
When: Week beginning Monday 9 November 2009 for five weeks
Time: Whenever suits you
Cost: $395
Course: Creative Writing Stage 1 with Jeni Mawter - FULL
When: Every Wednesday starting Wednesday 11 November 2009 for five weeks
Time: 6:30 - 8:30pm
Cost: $395
Course: Creative Writing Stage 1 DAYTIME course with Jeni Mawter
When: Every Friday starting Friday 20 November 2009 for five weeks
Time: 10.00am - 12noon
Cost: $395
Course: Online Business Booster Bootcamp with Valerie Khoo
When: Tuesday 24 November 2009
Time: 9.30am - 5.30pm
Cost: $695
Seminar: How to get your book published with Geoff Bartlett
When: Tuesday 24 November 2009 (2-hour evening seminar)
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $75
Course: Professional Business Writing with Mel Wilkinson
When: Thursday 26 November 2009 (one-day seminar)
Time: 9.00am - 5.00pm
Cost: $395
Seminar: Travel Writing with Geoff Bartlett
When: Wednesday 2 December 2009 (2-hour evening seminar)
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $75
Seminar: Grammar and Punctuation Essentials with Deb Doyle
When: Thursday 3 December 2009 (one-day seminar)
Time: 9.00am - 5.00pm
Cost: $395
Seminar: Self-publishing - How to do it with Geoff Bartlett
When: Wednesday 9 December 2009 (2-hour evening seminar)
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $75
Course: Creative Writing Stage 1 INTENSIVE DAYTIME course with Jeni Mawter
When: Monday 11 January - Friday 15 January 2010 (5 consecutive days)
Time: 10.00am - 12noon
Cost: $395
Course: Marketing Your Book with Amanda Falconer
When: Every Tuesday starting Tuesday 19 January 2010 for three weeks
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $265
Course: Script Writing for the Short Films with Geoff Bartlett
When: Wednesday 20 January and Wednesday 27 January 2010 (two evening seminars)
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $165
Course: Life Writing with Patti Miller
When: Every Friday starting Friday 22 January 2010 for six weeks
Time: 10am - 12noon
Cost: $450
Seminar: Blogging for Business with Steven Lewis
When: Thursday 28 January 2010 (one-day seminar)
Time: 9.30am - 4.30pm
Cost: $365
Course: Feature Writing for Magazines and Newspapers with Pamela Wilson - NEW DATE
When: Every Thursday starting Thursday 28 January 2010 for five weeks
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $395
Course: Writing Books for Children and Young Adults with Judith Ridge
When: Every Wednesday starting Wednesday 3 February 2010 for five weeks
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $395
Course: Creative Writing Stage 1 with Pamela Freeman
When: Every Tuesday starting Tuesday 16 February 2010 for five weeks
Time: 6:30 - 8:30pm
Cost: $395
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