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Free newsletter from the Sydney Writers' Centre packed with information about our upcoming courses and events, writing competitions, festivals, free articles on writing as well as freelance news and opportunities. Here's a collection of some of our past newsletters.

27 August 2009

Thursday, August 27, 2009
NEW Crime Writing Workshop starting soon;  Ubud Writers & Readers Festival; Build a marketing plan to sell your book; Script Writing for Short Films

In this issue:
  • TIP: Will you use an apostrophe in four weeks’ time?
  • NEW COURSE: Crime Writing Workshop
  • Ubud Writers & Readers Festival
  • Build a marketing plan to sell your book
  • Writing opportunity with SassiSam.com
  • Script Writing for Short Films
  • What does mea culpa mean?
  • WEBPICK

It’s been another busy week here at the Sydney Writers’ Centre, especially with Operations Coordinator Danielle (pictured right) going to do the Oxfam Trailwalker. She’ll be walking 100 kms to raise money for Oxfam. So if you try to ring her on Friday, she won’t be here. She’ll be traipsing all the way from Brooklyn to Mosman. I especially knew we had to sponsor her big effort when I found out her team is called … Writers’ Block!

This week, I’m also excited to announce our new Crime Writing Weekend Workshop. Want a mysterious weekend full of crime, writing and exploration? You’ll find out more in this newsletter.



TIP: Will you use an apostrophe in four weeks’ time?
 We’ve looked at apostrophes before, but they’re such tricky things that we still regularly receive emails about their use. I received this query last week from one of our readers regarding the apostrophe in the following sentence:
‘Each participant gets four weeks support.’
OR
‘Each participant gets four weeks’ support.’
She eventually decided on the first one, but she should have gone with the second one.

Just remember, we use the apostrophe in place of the word of in possessive nouns – singular and plural.

So, instead of ‘Each participant gets four weeks of support’ you would write ‘Each participant gets four weeks’ support’.

If it were only one week, you would write ‘Each participant gets one week’s support’.



NEW COURSE – Crime Writing Weekend Workshop
We’re delving into the dark side at the Sydney Writers’ Centre with a brand new course on Crime Writing. Experienced author and teacher Marele Day will be presenting a two-day weekend workshop on the sinister and mysterious world of writing crime.

This workshop is ideal if you want to write credible crime fiction with a suspenseful yet believable plot that will engage your readers.

During the course you’ll discover:
  • the “rules” of crime writing and how to get started
  • how to research your story
  • how to develop credible heroes and intriguing villains
  • how to develop a sense of place in crime fiction
  • the importance of plotting your crime
  • how to plant clues and create suspense
  • what crime fiction publishers are looking for.

The course is taught by Marele Day, author of four crime novels – The Life and Crimes of Harry Lavender, The Case of the Chinese Boxes, The Last Tango of Dolores Delgado and The Disappearances of Madalena Grimaldi – as well as a collection of crime-comedy stories – Mavis Levack, PI. She is also the editor of How to Write Crime. Other novels include the acclaimed Lambs of God and Mrs Cook: The Real and Imagined Life of the Captain’s Wife.

A highly experienced teacher, Marele conducts creative writing courses throughout Australia, and mentors emerging writers. She has won several awards including the Ned Kelly Lifetime Achievement in 2008. Her latest novel, released in 2009, is The Sea Bed.

Crime Writing Workshop with Marele Day
When: Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 October 2009 (2-day course)
Time: 9.30am – 4.30pm
Cost: $395

Click here for more information or to enrol online.




 
Ubud Writers & Readers Festival
If you love writers’ festivals then why not combine the next big literary weekend with an overseas holiday? The Ubud Writers & Readers Festival is happening in Bali on 7 to 11 October 2009 and, as usual, has a fantastic line up of Indonesian and international writers. This year’s bill includes Australian authors Sonya Hartnett, Bruce Dover and Tara June Winch. Also appearing will be the Nigerian Nobel Laureate, Wole Soyinka.

The Ubud Writers & Readers Festival has run annually since 2004 and is now considered one of the premier literary events in South East Asia. There’ll be lots of panel discussions, workshops, literary lunches and dinners, book launches and plenty of free events – all in the beautiful surrounds of Ubud. You can purchase a four-day pass for the whole festival or one-day tickets or workshops.

For full details check out the website - www.ubudwritersfestival.com.




Build a marketing plan to sell your book
 Ask any author – whether they’ve self-published or gone through a trade publisher – if their work is done when they’ve finished the book, and they’ll tell you there’s a lot more to go.

This course will help you build the right marketing plan to help sell you and your book. This course is ideal if you’re still in the process of writing your book or if you’ve already published or self-published your book.

During the course you’ll discover:

  • 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?

Here’s what recent participant Jennifer Ross had to say about the course:
‘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. At all times she involved members of the class and drew on their experience. I now have a plan to follow when the time is right. Amanda gave us valuable skills, links and resources, dispelling the fear of self-promotion. I now feel equipped to find my own way in book marketing.’

The course is taught by Amanda Falconer, 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, which has featured on Sunrise, 9am with David & Kim, A Current Affair and various radio shows around the country.

Marketing Your Book with Amanda Falconer
When: Every Monday starting Monday 14 September 2009 for three weeks
Time: 6.30 – 8.30pm
Cost: $265

Click here for more information or to enrol online.


 
Writing opportunities with SassiSam.com
If you’re looking to expand your writing experience but are finding It difficult to get paid work, perhaps you should consider an intern position. These three roles at SassiSam.com aren’t paid, but they’ll give you some great exposure and a chance to get your writing seen.

Sassi Sam, your online destination for all things fun and girlie, is expanding and has a few writing positions available. Sassi Sam is looking for a reliable book reviewer – someone who is passionate about books, and is also a little on the girlie side. You do not need to be based in Sydney as you can do this remotely.

There are also two writing intern positions suitable for anyone studying either journalism or public relations. These roles are for approximately 10 hours a week each, and can be a combination of working in the Sassi Sam office in Coogee and working remotely. The role includes writing news articles from briefs, reviewing products and books, research and administration.

If you have an interest in fashion, beauty and lifestyle, then email sam@sassisam.com for more information.






Script Writing for Short Films
Do you have a great idea for a short film? Are you thinking of entering one of the many short films competitions currently open in Australia? If you’re not sure where to start then our Script Writing for Short Films course is ideal.

This is an intensive seminar that will show you:

  • how to select and develop suitable ideas for a short film
  • what narrative elements you need in a short film screenplay (characters, plot, dialogue etc)
  • what technical elements you must consider in a short film screenplay (locations, props, budget etc)
  • the roles of the writer/director/producer and how they interact
  • how to get your film seen and sold

Here’s what recent participant Chris Bradford had to say about the course:
"Geoff's real world experience was invaluable and worth the price alone. I've rethought how I practice writing based on Geoff's research and real life examples."

This course is presented by Geoff Bartlett, who has written for several Australian TV shows and produced three short films. Two were semi finalists at Tropfest and one screened in competition at Flickerfest. They were also bought by Foxtel (The Comedy Channel), ABC TV, Qantas, Telstra and Japanese TV.

Script Writing for Short Films with Geoff Bartlett
When: Thursday 3 September and Thursday 10 September 2009 (two evening seminars)
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $165

Click here for more information or to enrol online.




Whose fault is it? What does mea culpa mean?
You might sometimes hear people use the term 'mea culpa' or you may read it in books. For example:
John: 'Who left the dirty dishes in the sink in the tea room?'
Ben: 'Mea culpa. Sorry! I got distracted by the gossip at the water cooler.'
Mea Culpa comes from the Latin and it means 'My fault'. Originally, it came from a prayer in the Catholic mass (called confiteor which means 'I confess'). But now it's commonly used in English to mean. 'Sorry - my fault!'.



WEBPICK: Misrule
This week’s webpick comes from our very own Judith Ridge. Judith teaches our Writing Books for Children and Young Adults course as well as the Creative Writing Stage 2, and is an expert on all things to do with children’s literature.

If you’re into writing books for children and young people then it's worth visiting Judith’s blog, Misrule. It about the world of kid’s literature and publishing both in Australia and overseas, and there’s plenty of news, book reviews and ‘other chat’ to keep any writer or reader up to date.

Visit Misrule at http://www.misrule.com.au/s9y/.










Other upcoming courses
Course: Online Business Booster Bootcamp with Valerie Khoo
When: Friday 28 August 2009 (one-day bootcamp)
Time: 9.00am – 5.00pm
Cost: $695

Course: Creative Writing Stage 1 with Pamela Freeman - FULL
When: Every Tuesday starting Tuesday 1 September 2009 for five weeks
Time: 6:30 - 8:30pm
Cost: $395

Course: Script Writing for the Short Films with Geoff Bartlett
When: Thursday 3 September and Thursday 10 September 2009 (two evening seminars)
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $165
Seminar: Travel Writing with Geoff Bartlett
When: Friday 4 September 2009 (one-morning seminar)
Time: 10am to 12noon
Cost: $75

Course: Online Feature Writing for Magazines and Newspapers with Valerie Khoo
When: Week beginning Monday 7 September 2009 for five weeks
Time: Whenever you want
Cost: $395

Course: Online Creative Writing Stage 1 with Pamela Freeman / Cathie Tasker
When: Week beginning Monday 7 September 2009 for five weeks
Time: Whenever suits you
Cost: $395
Seminar: Professional Business Writing with Mel Wilkinson
When: Wednesday 9 September 2009 (one-day seminar)
Time: 9.00am – 5.00pm
Cost: $395
Course: Life Writing with Patti Miller - FULL
When: Every Friday starting Friday 11 September 2009 for six weeks
Time: 10am – 12noon
Cost: $450

Course: Marketing Your Book with Amanda Falconer
When: Every Monday starting Monday 14 September 2009 for three weeks
Time: 6.30 – 8.30pm
Cost: $265

Seminar: Successful Freelancing with Gayle Bryant and Valerie Khoo
When: Thursday 24 September 2009 (one-evening seminar)
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $75

Seminar: Travel Writing with Geoff Bartlett
When: Wednesday 30 September 2009 (one-evening seminar)
Time: 6:30 - 8:30pm
Cost: $75

Seminar: How to Get Your Book Published with Geoff Bartlett
When: Wednesday 7 October 2009 (one-evening seminar)
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $75

Course: Crime Writing Weekend Workshop with Marele Day - NEW COURSE
When: Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 October 2009 (2 day workshop)
Time: 9.30am - 4.30pm
Cost: $395
Course: Feature Writing for Magazines and Newspapers with Katrina Lobley
When: Every Monday starting Monday 12 October 2009 for five weeks
Time: 6.30 – 8.30pm
Cost: $395

Seminar: Grammar and Punctuation Essentials with Deb Doyle
When: Wednesday 14 October 2009 (one-day seminar)
Time: 9.00am – 5.00pm
Cost: $395

Seminar: Self-Publishing: How to do it with Geoff Bartlett
When: Wednesday 14 October 2009 (one-evening seminar)
Time: 6:30 - 8:30pm
Cost: $75

Course: Writing for Children and Young Adults with Judith Ridge
When: Every Thursday starting Thursday 15 October 2009 for five weeks
Time: 6:30 - 8:30pm
Cost: $395
Course: Creative Writing Stage 1 with Pamela Freeman
When: Every Tuesday starting Tuesday 20 October 2009 for five weeks
Time: 6:30 - 8:30pm
Cost: $395

Course: Feature Writing Stage 2 with Judy Skatssoon
When: Every Wednesday starting Wednesday 21 October 2009 for five weeks
Time: 6.30 – 8.30pm
Cost: $395

Seminar: Editing Essentials with Katrina Lobley
When: Thursday 22 October 2009 (one-day seminar)
Time: 9.30am – 4.30pm
Cost: $345

Seminar: Blogging for Business with Steven Lewis – NEW COURSE
When: Friday 23 October 2009 (one-day seminar)
Time: 9.00am – 5.00pm
Cost: $365

Course: Feature Writing for Magazines and Newspapers with Pamela Wilson
When: Every Thursday starting Thursday 5 November 2009 for five weeks
Time: 6.30 – 8.30pm
Cost: $395
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20 August 2009

Thursday, August 20, 2009
How to power up your creative writing; The secrets of how to promote your book; Script Writing

In this issue:
  • TIP: Should you put a comma after 'however'?
  • Take the next step on your writing journey
  • The secrets of how to promote your book and sell it!
  • Book giveaway – Brief Encounters by Susannah Fullerton
  • TIP: What’s a ‘non sequitur’?
  • Script Writing for Short Films
  • WEBPICK: Meanjin Quarterly and Spike the blog

I was in the Yarra Valley in Victoria on the weekend, I was sitting in the lovely café at The Innocent Bystander Winery in Healesville when I opened The Age newspaper right on to a story written by one of my mentorees, Michelle Balmer.

I often open newspapers and magazines to find stories written by former students but I thought this was particularly cool because Michelle is an Australian girl living in Singapore (Michelle previously did our Online Feature Writing course) and she had written an article on Dubai.

It just goes to show how transportable and flexible the world of writing can be!



TIP: Should you put a comma after 'however'?
 The word ‘however’ has a number of different meanings depending on how you use it in a sentence. If you’re going to use ‘however’ at the start of a sentence, to mean ‘but’, you must always use a comma. This example is from Mark Tredinnick’s The Little Green Grammar Book:
The book was longer and later than expected. However, it was better.
If you don’t use the comma, it sounds like you’re using ‘however’ as an adverb. For example:
However you look at it, the book was better.  



Take the next step on your writing journey – Creative Writing Stage 2
If you’ve completed Creative Writing Stage 1 or Writing Books for Children and Young Adults, you may be wondering how to maintain your motivation and keep writing.

You can continue to hone your craft with our Creative Writing Stage 2 course. Presented by creative writing expert Judith Ridge, this course will give you a chance to workshop your writing and complete a short story. You’ll continue to explore Character, Voice and Plot while working with Judith and the class to really get your writing going.

Past participant Lis Blake had this to say about the course:
‘Judith's ideas were interesting and stimulating. Her feedback was very useful and encouraging. The course was full of lots of ideas and motivation. I am on the way to completing a piece of writing for the first time ever!"

Past participant David Andrews had this to say about the course:
"I enjoyed the opportunity to get feedback on my writing from several readers with entirely different perspectives than my own.

"As a result of the course I have become even more conscious of the importance of getting exactly the right words in the right place. I have always known this was important in other types of writing but in fiction it becomes absolutely vital."

 
Judith Ridge is a highly regarded creative writing teacher and has particular expertise in workshopping and facilitating practical sessions. Judith has worked with the Children's Book Council, as an editor at ABC Children's Books and the NSW School Magazine and freelanced as an editor for Random House. Judith taught 'Writing for Children' for two years at the University of Sydney MA in Creative Writing.

Creative Writing Stage 2 with Judith Ridge
When: Every Wednesday starting Wednesday 26 August 2009 for five weeks
Time: 6:30 - 8:30pm
Cost: $395

Click here for more information or to enrol online.






What’s a ‘non sequitur’?
What does non sequitur mean? There are a lot of terms used in English that are taken straight from the original Latin words. One is "non sequitur". This means "it does not follow".

So here is an example where you might use it:
John: "I think we should explain to our shareholders that the revenue forecast is very positive of the company so we are changing the colours of our logo."

Bob: "That's a non sequitur."





The secrets of how to promote your book and sell it!
 How do you make sure your masterpiece sells well? How do you get your self-published book into bookstores? How do you position yourself as an author?

Developing an effective marketing campaign for your book is essential if you want to achieve all of this. Our Marketing Your Book course will give you the tools you need to make it happen.

This intensive course is full of practical tips to help you build your marketing campaign. We’ll even show you how you can do it with little or no budget!

During the course you’ll discover:

  • 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?

Here’s what recent participant Jennifer Ross had to say about the course:
‘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. At all times she involved members of the class and drew on their experience. I now have a plan to follow when the time is right. Amanda gave us valuable skills, links and resources, dispelling the fear of self-promotion. I now feel equipped to find my own way in book marketing.’

Here’s what recent participant Kamal Weerakoon 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 - which is good!’

This course is presented by Amanda Falconer, 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: Every Monday starting Monday 14 September 2009 for three weeks
Time: 6.30 – 8.30pm
Cost: $265

Click here for more information or to enrol online.


 
Book giveaway
Recently I interviewed Susannah Fullerton about her writing journey and her latest book, Brief Encounters: Literary travellers in Australia 1836-1939. You can listen to the podcast here or on iTunes.

Susannah is a popular literary lecturer and an expert on 19th and 20th century writers. Brief Encounters is a witty and occasionally funny account of various literary heavy weights and their time in Australia. Mark Twain visited our shores, as did Robert Louis Stevenson, Rudyard Kipling and DH Lawrence. They all had very different reasons for visiting, and all left with very a different impression of our country.

We have one copy of Brief Encounters to give away. If you’d like to win it, just watch the video below and answer the question. Email your answer to courses@spindriftmedia.com.au by 5pm Friday 28 August and don’t forget to include your postal address.






Script Writing for Short Films
If you’ve got an idea for a short film but you’re not sure what to do next, our Script Writing for Short Films course is a fantastic way to start.

You only have to check out all the short film festivals that are held in Australia alone to see how popular short films are. Think Tropfest, Flickerfest, the Bondi Short Film Festival - it seems more and more film-makers are getting their start in short films.

This course will show you how to craft your short film screenplay and get it made. You’ll discover:

  • how to select and develop suitable ideas for a short film
  • what narrative elements you need in a short film screenplay (characters, plot, dialogue etc)
  • what technical elements you must consider in a short film screenplay (locations, props, budget etc)
  • the roles of the writer/director/producer and how they interact
  • how to get your film seen and sold

Here’s what recent participant Katie Whiffen had to say about the course:
"It was fantastic to understand the process of a short film and how ideas become reality. Before this course I had a few vague ideas for short films. I know what to do next if I want to enter Tropfest! Also have a range of resources from the presenter which will be invaluable."

Here’s what recent participant Chris Bradford had to say about the course:
"Geoff's real world experience was invaluable and worth the price alone. I've rethought how I practice writing based on Geoff's research and real life examples."

This course is presented by Geoff Bartlett, who has written for several Australian TV shows and produced three short films. Two were semi finalists at Tropfest and one screened in competition at Flickerfest. They were also bought by Foxtel (The Comedy Channel), ABC TV, Qantas, Telstra and Japanese TV.

Script Writing for Short Films with Geoff Bartlett
When: Thursday 3 September and Thursday 10 September 2009 (two evening seminars)
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $165

Click here for more information or to enrol online.





WEBPICK: Meanjin Quarterly and Spike the blog
Meanjin Quarterly is actually a print magazine promoting the best new Australian writing. They do, however, also have a blog named Spike. For news about writing and events around Australia, information about publishing and other online resources, this is a great blog to check out.

Written by Jessica Au and Sophie Cunningham, as well as the occasional guest blogger, Spike is updated regularly with interesting articles from the world of writing.

Check it out here - http://meanjin.com.au/spike-the-meanjin-blog.




Other upcoming courses
Course: Creative Writing Stage 1 with Kate Forsyth - FULL
When: Every Thursday starting Thursday 20 August 2009 for five weeks
Time: 6:30 - 8:30pm
Cost: $395

Course: Creative Writing Stage 2 with Judith Ridge
When: Every Wednesday starting Wednesday 26 August 2009 for five weeks
Time: 6:30 - 8:30pm
Cost: $395

Course: Online Business Booster Bootcamp with Valerie Khoo
When: Friday 28 August 2009 (one-day bootcamp)
Time: 9.00am – 5.00pm
Cost: $695

Course: Creative Writing Stage 1 with Pamela Freeman - FULL
When: Every Tuesday starting Tuesday 1 September 2009 for five weeks
Time: 6:30 - 8:30pm
Cost: $395

Course: Script Writing for the Short Films with Geoff Bartlett
When: Thursday 3 September and Thursday 10 September 2009 (two evening seminars)
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $165
Seminar: Travel Writing with Geoff Bartlett
When: Friday 4 September 2009 (one-morning seminar)
Time: 10am to 12noon
Cost: $75

Course: Online Feature Writing for Magazines and Newspapers with Valerie Khoo
When: Week beginning Monday 7 September 2009 for five weeks
Time: Whenever you want
Cost: $395

Course: Online Creative Writing Stage 1 with Pamela Freeman / Cathie Tasker - NEW DATE
When: Week beginning Monday 7 September 2009 for five weeks
Time: Whenever suits you
Cost: $395
Seminar: Professional Business Writing with Mel Wilkinson
When: Wednesday 9 September 2009 (one-day seminar)
Time: 9.00am – 5.00pm
Cost: $395
Course: Life Writing with Patti Miller
When: Every Friday starting Friday 11 September 2009 for six weeks
Time: 10am – 12noon
Cost: $450

Course: Marketing Your Book with Amanda Falconer
When: Every Monday starting Monday 14 September 2009 for three weeks
Time: 6.30 – 8.30pm
Cost: $265

Seminar: Successful Freelancing with Gayle Bryant and Valerie Khoo
When: Thursday 24 September 2009 (one-evening seminar)
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $75

Seminar: Travel Writing with Geoff Bartlett
When: Wednesday 30 September 2009 (one-evening seminar)
Time: 6:30 - 8:30pm
Cost: $75

Seminar: How to Get Your Book Published with Geoff Bartlett - NEW DATE
When: Wednesday 7 October 2009 (one-evening seminar)
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $75

Course: Crime Writing Weekend Workshop with Marele Day - NEW COURSE
When: Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 October 2009 (2 day workshop)
Time: 9.30am - 4.30pm
Cost: $395
Course: Feature Writing for Magazines and Newspapers with Katrina Lobley
When: Every Monday starting Monday 12 October 2009 for five weeks
Time: 6.30 – 8.30pm
Cost: $395

Seminar: Self-Publishing: How to do it with Geoff Bartlett - NEW DATE
When: Wednesday 14 October 2009 (one-evening seminar)
Time: 6:30 - 8:30pm
Cost: $75

Course: Writing for Children and Young Adults with Judith Ridge - NEW DATE
When: Every Thursday starting Thursday 15 October 2009 for five weeks
Time: 6:30 - 8:30pm
Cost: $395
Course: Creative Writing Stage 1 with Pamela Freeman
When: Every Tuesday starting Tuesday 20 October 2009 for five weeks
Time: 6:30 - 8:30pm
Cost: $395

Course: Feature Writing Stage 2 with Judy Skatssoon
When: Every Wednesday starting Wednesday 21 October 2009 for five weeks
Time: 6.30 – 8.30pm
Cost: $395

Seminar: Editing Essentials with Katrina Lobley - NEW DATE
When: Thursday 22 October 2009 (one-day seminar)
Time: 9.30am – 4.30pm
Cost: $345

Course: Feature Writing for Magazines and Newspapers with Pamela Wilson
When: Every Thursday starting Thursday 5 November 2009 for five weeks
Time: 6.30 – 8.30pm
Cost: $395
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13 August 2009

Thursday, August 13, 2009
How to write for kids; Learn Grammar and Punctuation in one day; CAL Scribe Fiction Prize; Book Giveaway; Continue your writing journey.

In this issue:

  • TIP: Can one company become two?
  • How to write for kids
  • Where does ‘vox pop’ come from?
  • Learn Grammar and Punctuation in one day
  • CAL Scribe Fiction Prize
  • Book Giveaway – Dark Country by Bronwyn Parry
  • Continue your writing journey with Creative Writing stage 2
    •
  • WEBPICK: Dial 911 for writer’s block emergencies!



As I write this, I'm sitting in the lovely library of the RACV Club in Melbourne. I've been in Melbourne to speak at an event on "7 Ways to Boost your Business and Build Your Brand Online". In an increasingly online world, getting online communication right can be the difference between whether you succeed or fail in your business or in getting your message across. If you're a business owner, you won't want to miss my Online Business Booster Bootcamp on Friday 28 August 2009 - there are only a few places left!

Anyhow, back to the RACV Club library ... one of the reasons I love this place is that it's a sanctuary in the busy CBD and, most importantly, has a whole stack of magazines to browse through. If you've done our course Feature Writing for Magazines and Newspapers (and yes, we've just announced a new date - Monday 12 October due to popular demand), you'll know how important it is to analyse magazines and, for those of you in Melbourne, this is the ideal place for you to browse to your heart's content. Right now, there's lovely music playing in the background, it's a calm, peaceful atmosphere and I'm flipping through Italian Vogue ... soon to be followed by the latest issue of The Economist.

See you when I'm back in Sydney next week!



TIP: Can one company become two?
 I received an email this week from one of our readers and she wanted to know which of these two sentences is correct.
Coles believes they are the best supermarket.
Coles believes it is the best supermarket.
Should the company name Coles be treated as plural or singular?

The second sentence is correct. The business name is a singular noun, even if it looks plural, and therefore you must use a singular verb. People often make this mistake, but just remember that a company is a single entity.





How to write for kids
Kids love to read. Just ask JK Rowling or Morris Gleitzman. So, if you’ve got a story you think kids will love or a book idea for young adult readers, then our Writing Books for Children and Young Adults course is the ideal place to start.

This five-week course will cover:

  • how to get started
  • finding the right voice
  • creating characters and stories young readers will enjoy
  • common assumptions about writing for children and about young readers
  • understanding the children's publishing market.
The course will focus on longer fiction, although picture books will also be touched upon.

This course is presented by Judith Ridge. Judith has worked with the Children's Book Council, as an editor at ABC Children's Books and the NSW School Magazine and freelances as an editor for Random House. For the past two years, Judith has taught "Writing for Children" at the University of Sydney MA in Creative Writing.

Writing Books for Children and Young Adults with Judith Ridge
When: Every Tuesday starting Tuesday 18 August 2009 for five weeks
Time: 6.30 – 8.30pm
Cost: $395

Click here for more information or to enrol online.






Did you know?
You may be familiar with the term "vox pops". This is when people on the street are surveyed and encouraged to give their opinion.

For example, you'll often see TV commercials where supposed members of the public give their opinion on anything from what breakfast cereal they like to whether they know anyone who has won a Scratchie. These are commonly known as "vox pops". But the term actually originates from the Latin "vox populi" which means "voice of the people".






Why you need to understand Grammar and Punctuation
 Grammar doesn’t need to be scary. Knowing the basic rules of grammar and punctuation means you can be confident that your writing is free from errors and is easy to read. And you’ll feel safe in the knowledge that you will never misplace your apostrophes again!

Our practical and intensive one-day seminar will give you:

  • 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.

You’ll also receive a copy of Deb Doyle’s book Grey Areas and Gremlins: A grammar and punctuation refresher (valued at $50).

The 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: What you need to know with Deb Doyle
When: Thursday 20 August 2009 (one-day seminar)
Time: 9.00am - 5.00pm
Cost: $395

Click here for more information or to enrol online.





 
CAL Scribe Fiction Prize
There are many awards and prizes offered for ‘young’ writers (or writers under 35) but it’s unusual to find an award for writers over the age of 35. But, as Scribe Publishers point out, there are many writers who aren’t published until much later in life. Just a few examples are Elizabeth Jolley (her first novel was published when she was 53), Annie Proulx (won the Pulitzer Prize for her second novel Shipping News at the age of 58) and Raymond Chandler (first novel published at 51).

So, here it is – a competition for the best un-published manuscript by a writer over the age of 35. The winner of the CAL Scribe Fiction Prize will receive $12,000 and a book contract from Scribe publishers. Entries close on 15 October 2009.

Click here for full details and an entry form. 






Book Giveaway – Dark Country by Bronwyn Parry
Last year I interviewed Bronwyn Parry for our author podcast series. She’s a very successful romance fiction author and gave us some great insight into her daily writing life and also offered some wonderful advice for aspiring writers. You can listen to the podcast here.

Since we spoke to Bronwyn, she’s completed another novel, and we have one copy to give away thanks to Hachette Australia. Dark Country is set in the small town of Dungirri and focuses on the local police sergeant Kris Matthews and the town’s prodigal son Morgan ‘Gil’ Gillespie. Here’s a little more about the book:
Most people in Dungirri have considered Morgan ‘Gil’ Gillespie a murderer for eighteen years, so he expects no welcome on his return What he doesn’t expect is the discovery of a woman’s tortured body in the boot of his car, and new accusations of murder.

Kris Matthews isn’t sure whether Gil is a decent man wronged by life, or a brutal killer she should be locking up. But she does know that he is not guilty of this murder – because she is his alibi…

If you’d like to win a copy of Dark Country just tell us what your romance fiction would be about. Email answers to courses@spindriftmedia.com.au by Friday 21 August, and remember to include your postal address.  





Continue your writing journey with Creative Writing Stage 2
Now that you’ve completed Creative Writing stage 1 or Writing Books for Children and Young Adults, how will you continue your writing journey? If you want to continue honing your craft or you feel you’re past the beginners’ stage and want to jump right into a ‘doing’ course, then Creative Writing stage 2 is for you.

This course will continue to explore Character, Voice and Plot, and will also give you the chance to workshop your writing, with a view to completing a short story by the end of the course.

The course has been developed by Pamela Freeman, author and creative writing teacher, and is presented by Judith Ridge. Judith is a highly regarded creative writing teacher and has particular expertise in workshopping and facilitating practical sessions.

Creative Writing Stage 2 with Judith Ridge
When: Every Wednesday starting Wednesday 26 August 2009 for five weeks
Time: 6:30 - 8:30pm
Cost: $395

Click here for more information or to enrol online.





WEBPICK: 911 Writer’s Block
Finally – an emergency service for writers suffering the dreaded writer’s block! 911 Writer’s Block should definitely be in your favourites folder. If you’re stuck on a setting for your story, dial 1. If you need a prompt to write the perfect dramatic entrance, dial 3. And if you feel your brain needs a real workout, dial 7 for Calisthenics – and see if you can bring together three random elements in a story.

Visit http://www.webook.com/911writersblock - for emergencies only!




Other upcoming courses
Course: Online Creative Writing Stage 1 with Pamela Freeman / Cathie Tasker
When: Week beginning Monday 17 August 2009 for five weeks
Time: Whenever suits you
Cost: $395

Course: Writing for Children and Young Adults with Judith Ridge
When: Every Tuesday starting Tuesday 18 August 2009 for five weeks
Time: 6:30 - 8:30pm
Cost: $395

Seminar: Writing for the Web with Grant Doyle - LAST SEMINAR FOR 2009
When: Wednesday 19 August 2009 (one-day seminar)
Time: 9.30am - 4.00pm
Cost: $365

Seminar: How to Get Your Book Published with Geoff Bartlett
When: Wednesday 19 August 2009 (one-evening seminar)
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $75

Seminar: Grammar and Punctuation Essentials with Deb Doyle
When: Thursday 20 August 2009 (one-day seminar)
Time: 9.00am - 5.00pm
Cost: $395

Course: Creative Writing Stage 1 with Kate Forsyth - FULL
When: Every Thursday starting Thursday 20 August 2009 for five weeks
Time: 6:30 - 8:30pm
Cost: $395

Course: Creative Writing Stage 2 with Judith Ridge
When: Every Wednesday starting Wednesday 26 August 2009 for five weeks
Time: 6:30 - 8:30pm
Cost: $395

Course: Online Business Booster Bootcamp with Valerie Khoo
When: Friday 28 August 2009 (one-day bootcamp)
Time: 9.00am – 5.00pm
Cost: $695

Course: Creative Writing Stage 1 with Pamela Freeman - FULL
When: Every Tuesday starting Tuesday 1 September 2009 for five weeks
Time: 6:30 - 8:30pm
Cost: $395

Course: Script Writing for the Short Films with Geoff Bartlett
When: Thursday 3 September and Thursday 10 September 2009 (two evening seminars)
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $165
Seminar: Travel Writing with Geoff Bartlett
When: Friday 4 September 2009 (one-morning seminar)
Time: 10am to 12noon
Cost: $75

Course: Online Feature Writing for Magazines and Newspapers with Valerie Khoo - NEW DATE
When: Week beginning Monday 7 September 2009 for five weeks
Time: Whenever you want
Cost: $395

Seminar: Professional Business Writing with Mel Wilkinson
When: Wednesday 9 September 2009 (one-day seminar)
Time: 9.00am – 5.00pm
Cost: $395
Course: Life Writing with Patti Miller
When: Every Friday starting Friday 11 September 2009 for six weeks
Time: 10am – 12noon
Cost: $450

Course: Marketing Your Book with Amanda Falconer
When: Every Monday starting Monday 14 September 2009 for three weeks
Time: 6.30 – 8.30pm
Cost: $265

Seminar: Successful Freelancing with Gayle Bryant and Valerie Khoo
When: Thursday 24 September 2009 (one-evening seminar)
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $75

Seminar: Travel Writing with Geoff Bartlett
When: Wednesday 30 September 2009 (one-evening seminar)
Time: 6:30 - 8:30pm
Cost: $75

Course: Feature Writing for Magazines and Newspapers with Katrina Lobley - NEW DATE AND PRESENTER
When: Every Monday starting Monday 12 October 2009 for five weeks
Time: 6.30 – 8.30pm
Cost: $395
Course: Creative Writing Stage 1 with Pamela Freeman
When: Every Tuesday starting Tuesday 20 October 2009 for five weeks
Time: 6:30 - 8:30pm
Cost: $395

Course: Feature Writing Stage 2 with Judy Skatssoon
When: Every Wednesday starting Wednesday 21 October 2009 for five weeks
Time: 6.30 – 8.30pm
Cost: $395

Course: Feature Writing for Magazines and Newspapers with Pamela Wilson
When: Every Thursday starting Thursday 5 November 2009 for five weeks
Time: 6.30 – 8.30pm
Cost: $395
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6 August 2009

Thursday, August 06, 2009
Online Feature Writing starts next week; Writing for the Web - the last seminar for 2009; How to get your book published; book giveaway

In this issue:
  • TIP: To comma or not to comma?
  • Learn to write for magazines and newspapers – from home!
  • Make your website stand out – Writing for the Web 
  • How to get your book published
  • Do you know where the word “facsimile” comes from?
  • WEBPICK: Gorgeous bookmarks from Note Couture



I’ve been re-living my childhood recently as I’ve been clearing out some old boxes, some filled with the books I used to love as a kid. Everything from Richard Scarry to Ramona The Pest, The Hobbit, The Outsiders and – dare I confess – even a couple of Sweet Dreams books thrown in (hey, I’m a girl!).

On this trip down memory lane, I was supposed to be decluttering but ended up absorbed in some of the stories all over again. That’s the magic of the books you read when you’re growing up – they can make such an impact on your life in so many ways. That’s why I’m so excited about the upcoming course in Writing Books for Children and Young Adults. This is one of the best children’s writing courses in Australia and if you’re interested in writing children books – or just appreciate their magic – it’s the one for you. You can find out more about that course, which starts Tuesday 18 August, here.



TIP: To comma or not to comma
 Welcome to the dilemma of the Oxford comma. At school, most of us learnt that a serial comma merely replaces the 'and' in a list of nouns. For example:
Valerie, Tracy and Danielle share an office in Milsons Point.
Did you notice that I didn’t use a comma between ‘Tracy’ and ‘and Danielle’? This is typically an Australian and British convention. However, some people argue that you should use an Oxford Comma (also known as a Harvard comma) – that is, the optional comma before the word ‘and’ at the end of a list. The sentence would then go like this:
Valerie, Tracy, and Danielle share an office in Milsons Point.
There are some people who are dead against using it in this way. However, Mark Tredinnick, in his book The Little Green Grammar Book, concludes that the Oxford comma actually comes in very handy as it can make a writer’s intention clearer. Here’s an example of a possible book dedication:
To my parents, Rex and Rocky.
Here there could be ambuiguity that my parents names are Rex and Rocky when, in fact, they are my cats. To clarify, adding a comma will do the trick.
To my parents, Rex, and Rocky.
So, remember, it is quite acceptable to use the additional comma, and occasionally even necessary, so don’t feel bad about it!



Online Feature Writing
Many of our former students live outside of Sydney – some even live overseas! Yet they’ve all been able to benefit from our incredibly popular Feature Writing course through our online program. If you don’t live close to our Milsons Point training room, or you just prefer to learn from home, our online course could be just what you need.

You can attend the virtual classroom at a time that suits you and still benefit from the experience and knowledge of our presenters through the online forum. You can check out how the classroom works here.

The course suits first-time writers or anyone who wants to hone their writing skills. During the course you will learn 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!

Online Feature Writing for Magazines and Newspapers with Valerie Khoo
When: Week beginning Monday 10 August 2009 for five weeks
Time: Whenever suits you
Cost: $395

Click here for more information or to enrol online.





Make your website stand out – your last chance for 2009
 Writing for the web is very different to writing for traditional print publications. How do you know if you’re website content is appropriate? Is it engaging and concise? Can your website visitors get what they need at a glance?

Our Writing for the Web seminar will help you write the best content for your website. We’ll teach you the golden rules of writing for the web. This practical seminar covers:
  • the difference between print and online writing
  • good content versus poor content
  • how your readers engage with web content
  • golden rules of information design
  • writing for scannability
  • guidelines for concise writing
  • do you need contextual links?
  • using keywords for search engine optimisation
  • writing for accessibility and usability
  • why you need a style guide
  • and much more

Our very last Writing for the Web seminar for 2009 will be held on Wednesday 19 August so enrol now!

The seminar will be taught by Grant Doyle, an experienced copywriter, content manager and web editor. After many years as a print journalist and author, Grant gravitated to web writing in 1999 and has been contracting or consulting to major corporations in various online content capacities since then. Grant continues to initiate and teach many in-house web writing programs in addition to developing corporate web writing style guides.

Writing for the Web with Grant Doyle
When: Wednesday 19 August 2009 (one-day seminar)
Time: 9.30am – 4pm
Cost: $365

Click here for more information or to enrol online.






Did you know? Facsimile
Ok, so I'm a little bit of a Latin freak - and yes, I used to do geeky things like enter Latin Reading Competitions. But I hope you find this series of words and their Latin origins interesting.

This week: facsimile.
Yes the humble fax machine comes from the Latin words "fac simile". This means "make something similar". That's a good one to have up your sleeve at the next office trivia night!







Slim Ink book giveaway
It’s time for our monthly book giveaway thanks to Slim Ink Book Rental and this month’s book is We Are All Made of Glue by Marina Lewycka. Here’s a bit about the book: 
Georgie Sinclair's husband has walked out; her sixteen-year-old son is busy surfing born-again websites; and all those overdue articles for Adhesives in the Modern World are getting her down.

So when Georgie spots Mrs Shapiro, an eccentric old Jewish émigré neighbour with an eye for a bargain and a fondness for matchmaking, rummaging through her skip in the middle of the night, it's just the distraction she needs. And although they mistrust each other at first a firm friendship is formed over the reduced-price shelf at the supermarket.

Soon Georgie finds herself unravelling a mystery that takes her from Highbury to wartime Europe to the Middle East, and learning a bit about DIY along the way.
If you’d like to win a copy of We Are All Made of Glue, simply answer this question:
What would you make out of glue? (You can be as creative as you like)
The most creative answer will win a copy of the book.
Email your answer, along with your name and postal address, to courses@spindriftmedia.com.au by 5pm, Friday 14 August.




How to get your book published
Getting your book from manuscript stage – or even just idea stage – to a publisher can be a daunting task. But it is possible to turn the dream into reality – you just need to know the essential steps and you could be on your way to becoming Australia’s next best-seller!

This two-hour seminar will give you the information you need to get your book published. It will cover:

  • How to write a winning book proposal
  • How to approach publishers
  • Do you need an agent?
  • How much should you write before approaching a publisher?
  • Negotiating a fair contract
  • The editing and re-writing process

The seminar is taught be Geoff Bartlett, an author, journalist, actor and producer. He has filed articles and interviews for over 20 major newspapers and magazines around the country and has also published a number of books. 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.

His latest books are Cattitude, released in 2006 and Mutterings which was published in 2007.

How to Get Your Book Published with Geoff Bartlett
When: Wednesday 19 August (one-evening seminar)
Time: 6.30 – 8.30pm
Cost: $75

Click here for more information or to enrol online.





WEBPICK: Gorgeous book marks from Note Couture
If you want to avoid the dreaded ‘dog ears’ in your books (you know, the pages where someone has bent over the top corner to keep their place, ruining its pristine condition) then you need bookmarks – and plenty of them. And just because they do nothing but keep your page marked in a book, doesn’t mean they can’t be pretty!

Check out Note Couture’s selection of bookmarks. They have bookmarks for men, women and children (really, they do), and they all feature a lovely quote from the wonderful world of literature.

Have a look here.




Other upcoming courses
Course: Online Feature Writing for Magazines and Newspapers with Valerie Khoo
When: Week beginning Monday 10 August for five weeks
Time: Whenever you want
Cost: $395

Course: Novel Writing Workshop with Pamela Freeman
When: 5 evening classes held approximately every six weeks beginning Tuesday 11 August 2009
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $450

Seminar: Self-publishing - How to do it with Geoff Bartlett
When: Wednesday 12 August 2009 (one-evening seminar)
Time: 6:30 - 8:30pm
Cost: $75

Seminar: Editing Essentials with Katrina Lobley
When: Thursday 13 August 2009 (one-day seminar)
Time: 9.30am - 4.30pm
Cost: $345

Course: Online Creative Writing Stage 1 with Pamela Freeman / Cathie Tasker - NEW DATE
When: Week beginning Monday 17 August 2009 for five weeks
Time: Whenever suits you
Cost: $395

Course: Writing for Children and Young Adults with Judith Ridge
When: Every Tuesday starting Tuesday 18 August 2009 for five weeks
Time: 6:30 - 8:30pm
Cost: $395

Seminar: Writing for the Web with Grant Doyle
When: Wednesday 19 August (one-day seminar)
Time: 9.30am - 4.00pm
Cost: $365

Seminar: How to Get Your Book Published with Geoff Bartlett
When: Wednesday 19 August (one-evening seminar)
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $75

Seminar: Grammar and Punctuation Essentials with Deb Doyle
When: Thursday 20 August 2009 (one-day seminar)
Time: 9.00am - 5.00pm
Cost: $395

Course: Creative Writing Stage 1 with Kate Forsyth - FULL
When: Every Thursday starting Thursday 20 August 2009 for five weeks
Time: 6:30 - 8:30pm
Cost: $395

Course: Creative Writing Stage 2 with Judith Ridge
When: Every Wednesday starting Wednesday 26 August 2009 for five weeks
Time: 6:30 - 8:30pm
Cost: $395

Course: Online Business Booster Bootcamp with Valerie Khoo
When: Friday 28 August 2009 (one-day bootcamp)
Time: 9.00am – 5.00pm
Cost: $695

Course: Creative Writing Stage 1 with Pamela Freeman - FULL
When: Every Tuesday starting Tuesday 1 September 2009 for five weeks
Time: 6:30 - 8:30pm
Cost: $395

Course: Script Writing for the Short Films with Geoff Bartlett
When: Thursday 3 September and Thursday 10 September 2009 (two evening seminars)
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $165
Seminar: Travel Writing with Geoff Bartlett -
When: Friday 4 September 2009 (one-morning seminar)
Time: 10am to 12noon
Cost: $75

Seminar: Professional Business Writing with Mel Wilkinson
When: Wednesday 9 September 2009 (one-day seminar)
Time: 9.00am – 5.00pm
Cost: $395
Course: Life Writing with Patti Miller
When: Every Friday starting Friday 11 September 2009 for six weeks
Time: 10am – 12noon
Cost: $450

Course: Marketing Your Book with Amanda Falconer
When: Every Monday starting Monday 14 September 2009 for three weeks
Time: 6.30 – 8.30pm
Cost: $265

Seminar: Successful Freelancing with Gayle Bryant and Valerie Khoo
When: Thursday 24 September 2009 (one-evening seminar)
Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm
Cost: $75

Seminar: Travel Writing with Geoff Bartlett - FULL
When: Wednesday 30 September 2009 (one-evening seminar)
Time: 6:30 - 8:30pm
Cost: $75
Course: Creative Writing Stage 1 with Pamela Freeman - NEW DATE
When: Every Tuesday starting Tuesday 20 October 2009 for five weeks
Time: 6:30 - 8:30pm
Cost: $395

Course: Feature Writing Stage 2 with Judy Skatssoon
When: Every Wednesday starting Wednesday 21 October 2009 for five weeks
Time: 6.30 – 8.30pm
Cost: $395

Course: Feature Writing for Magazines and Newspapers with Pamela Wilson
When: Every Thursday starting Thursday 5 November 2009 for five weeks
Time: 6.30 – 8.30pm
Cost: $395
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