What past students say about ...

Success stories

Creative Writing - Stage 1

"I absolutely loved Kate's style of teaching- so easy to follow and extremely informative! I also appreciated how encouraging she was. Thank you!"
- Kelly Laurantus


"Kate is an accomplished author whose books I really enjoy, so it was great just to hear her share her considerable knowledge on writing in a very matter-of-fact and engaging way.

"I've learned a ton about the craft of storytelling, including many things I did not know before, and intend to apply as much of it as I can when I re-write the first draft of my novel.
- Vincent Truitner

"Overall, the course was brilliant!"
- Tina McIntosh

"Information coming from a published author is invaluable, Pamela Freeman helped not only with many ways to go about refining a piece of work but also ensured we knew what to expect in the book industry."
- Asha Davidson

"It was a very friendly atmosphere, there was no pressure to write anything amazing and you didnt feel compared to the other students. Pamela has fantastic knowledge of writing and the industry and passed this on in a very understanding manner. The location was fantastic close to parking which made it alot easier and the view is amazing."
- Alyssa Tasker

"I have always wanted to write creatively but I have long been guilty of collecting half finished pieces of work.
I have now learnt how to put the pieces together and the true gift of that knowledge is that I have found my creative flow. I am now writing everyday and really experiencing the beauty of the creative process, the difference for me feels nothing short of amazing.

"I found this course to be not only educational in teaching me the skills that I so desired to know but it has also blessed me with a great support network. It's an inspiring experience to be in a room with minds that are all hungry for the same thing and a room filled with passion. This is a brilliant course!"
- Imogen Bailey

"You have taken me further than I'd ever hoped into a world of storytelling and infinite possibilities. Thank you for your neverending inspiration, guidance and support through the process of creating and beyond."
- Jenny Diamond

"The Creative Writing course was a great way to kick-start my writing ambitions in a supportive and fun environment. I was really motivated to keep writing after every class."
- Linda Ballam-Davies

"The presenter was inspiring and I felt she was being honest in her feedback. It was wonderful."
- Midge McCall

"Pamela Freeman is a fabulous teacher! She just has such a talent for it. It's rare that a good writer is also a good teacher. I am very inspired"
- Iona Krefel

"It forced me to put pen to paper and gave me some encouragement to continue. It was very good. Pamela had obviously structured and prepared the course well."
- Michael Senior

"It was a very nice group of people, there were good reading materials and very practical and useful tips from
a professional."
- Ned Sheeran

"I benefitted enormously from the course not just as a result of Pam's insights and straight talking style but also as a result of being surrounded by interested and interesting classmates.

"I'm glad I did it! I know I can write, and write well, but needed Pam's insights into the process and the realities of writing, whether for a living or for fun. I might just get off my backside now and start the novel I believe I have in me."
- Floyd Robichaux

"The course offered practical and insightful tips and advice on writing. I came away knowing more about writing than when I started. The teacher was excellent and there was a good bunch of people."
- David Olivetti

"I loved the course. It was great because it gave me the basic foundations and structure for good writing. It's not enough to have an idea or a perceived flair for writing. There are RULES! With writing, you need to understand the basics of good dialogue, characterisation, structure (scene & summary), point of view, and editing.

"Pamela gave us a really solid foundation to work from, as well as a fair dose of reality and inspiration as she shared her own stories of writing with us. So, whilst I haven't written a novel YET, I have got my outline done and have a way forward, finally!"
- Michelle Barraclough

"Great - I would highly recommend this to anybody who needs any form of guidance when it comes to any writing - not just creative writing. Pamela is a true artist."
- Mona Tannous

"I’ve just been offered my first contract, a four-book deal with Omnibus Press ... Big thanks to you, Valerie, for the Sydney Writers' Centre, to Pamela for her course and to Geoff for reading my proposal. Thanks!"
- Mitch Lewis

"Pamela is an excellent teacher and an incredible listener. Her ability to take in her students work, digest and deliver value in her feedback was outstanding. This has given me an empowered perspective from which to write but also from which to critique my own work."
- Tim Lassig

"I have been writing professionally as a journalist for 18 years but there was so much I didn't know until I attended this course. I left on the final evening feeling inspired rather than scared about writing fiction."
- Michael Smith

"I would unreservedly recommend it to anyone seeking to take their writing from ideas to create stories."
- Ben Dalrymple

"The relaxed and flowing conversations about good books, great stories and fascinating characters were expertly woven together with practical lessons on how to craft your own words."
- Gemma Swart

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Creative Writing - Stage 2

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!"
- Lis Blake

"I am now committed to finishing my first novel after years of prevarication!"
- Andrew Franks

"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."
- David Andrews

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Writing books for children and young adults

"I found Judith to be enthusiastic and inspiring, and she demonstrated an amazing knowledge of all aspects of writing for children. The work produced by people in the group ranged from picturebooks, through historicals to young adult fiction, but in all cases Judith was able to provide valuable guidance.

"She also created a wonderful group dynamic, in which the members critiqued each others' work in a constructive and supportive manner."
- Harriet Jordan, e-learning designer and writing student

"Judith Ridge really opened my eyes to the unique art of children's writing. She made me think about how to approach and write for children and to think about the differences between writing for children and writing for adults. She improved my manuscript for children enormously.

"I would recommend her courses to anyone at any level who has an interest in children's literature and writing."
- Sarah Thompson

"Overall, the course was excellent. Judith covered a lot of ground in the short time available and gave a lot of examples of existing publications. The course was structured in such a way that complete beginners could get as much out of it as more experienced participants."
- Patrick Silsbey

"Judith is a fantastic teacher. She covered all the aspects that I expected out of the course and more. She made extra effort in reviewing work and suggesting and providing additional reading material to my particular area of interest. She openly shared her expertise and encouraged us all. Judith and the centre created a nurturing and open environment for us to discuss our work. The course was initmate in size but felt very professional in content."
- Libbie Doherty

"Each night I left having learnt something new and of value to my writing."
- David Nunn

"I received some good tips in regards to publishers and what they want. There was a great deal of very useful information and Judith presented all of it very well."
- Michelle Crook

"Judith knew her stuff and it showed in her enthuisiasm when she taught the class. Judith provided information I didn't even know I would need when writing for children. I took on everything from themes to focus on language and what children like compared to what adults think children would like."
- Megan Hughes

"She has such a colourful personality which kept me interested in learning more."
- Pat Kefalas

"I have come to understand the big picture and how the industry works. I have of course learnt what makes good writing and all the different concepts that you need to consider when writing a children's book."
- Lauren Harding

"I feel more confident about my ability to write children's stories that are engaging and also how to proceed to the next stage of getting them published."
- Chris Mitchell

"I am writing more, and within a week of finishing the course, I was able to have a fresh look at one of my manuscripts; re-edit the work, and finally take the plunge and submit it to publishers."
- Jacy Kattan

"It has encouraged me to find my writers voice and that it is ok to write and not be published straight away but to just enjoy the journey of writing."
- Karen Hendbark

"I have a much clearer understanding of my own writing style preferences now thanks to the course and Judith's invaluable sharing of information."
- Barbara Hawes

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Life Writing

"The benefits of doing this course were priceless. Not only did my writing passion and skill increase, but I allowed me to truely find myself. Patti's techniques, exercises and experience allows you to look at yourself, evaluate yourself and find your true self through writing. It has increased my confidence, my skill and my desire to write. Thank you so much"
- Nat Watson

"I found the course liberating in overcoming the barrier to start writing. Patti is an inspiring and encouraging teacher and excellent group facilitator. It was most enjoyable and met my objectives."
- Carolyn Leigh

"It was a great experience. I haven't been in a class room for 20 years so it was a little scary at first but Patti was awesome. She's a very good teacher, a lovely lady. Everyone was great in fact, it was a wonderful experience to share with like minded people, it's nice to know you're not alone in the quest! Bloody brilliant!"
- Marcia Tsiliris

"The course was a breakthrough experience for many of us. It gave us inspiration, energy to write, excellent tips and a sense of achievement. In such a short term, Patti managed to make us write good pieces, almost a start of our own book."
- Aurora Lopez

"Patti is a wonderful teacher and mentor, great at making people feel relaxed and their contributions worthy."
- Helen Vatsikopoulos

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Feature Writing for Magazines and Newspapers Stage 1

"Valerie's vast knowledge and passion was evident in all of the sessions, and was a great inspiration. A well rounded, informative and highly practical course."
- Sally Pater

"I loved learning a new skill. Making something which always seemed baffling, achievable and fun."
- Natalie Macken

"I already arranged a meeting with the editor of a magazine to pitch my idea in person"
- Lisa Yates

"Taking Judy Skatssoon's Feature Writing course was a great investment. Not only did Judy pass on great tips for writing features, but her enthusiasm encouraged me to pursue work as a freelance writer. Since taking her course I have been published in the Australian Associated Press and Canberra Times and can't stop writing."
- Allison Garoza

"The small class sizes gave us more personal attention and opportunity to chat with other classmates. Judy Skatssoon is a fantastic teacher with a wealth of subject knowledge and experience. Within a month of finishing the course, I had my first story printed as a full page spread in the Sun Herald! Since then, I have had further success with my stories getting picked up by a variety of other publications."
- Cindy Bingley-Pullin

"I found Valerie Khoo's writing course to be, in a word, inspiring. Valerie's warmly communicative style of teaching engaged and challenged all of us to be fearless in facing and filling that intimidating beast called the blank page.

"Valerie, with apologies to Dan Brown, certainly decoded my inner Da-Vinci and fired my already electronic media trained imagination to make the transition to print."
- David White, former 2SM and 2DAY FM presenter and award-winning environmental journalist.

"I found Valerie's course invaluable. I thought I knew how to write but Valerie gave us practical insights that helped me to improve my style as well as become a better editor of my own work.

"Ultimately, it was the pragmatic approach to targeting and pitching that was most useful and I had my first successful pitch within two months of completing the course. Highly recommended."
- Cassandra Whobrey

"Although I'd worked in the media before, I was unsure how to make a start as a freelance feature writer. Valerie Khoo's course on feature writing went through the basics of developing story ideas relevant to specific newspapers and magazines; how to approach editors and pitch stories.

"After a few unsuccessful attempts an editor commissioned a story from me. It was just the break I needed and I've worked steadily as a freelance writer for the past three years."
- Jackie Woods, freelance writer

"Having had an idea for an article mingling about in my brain for months, but not knowing how to write it, I enrolled in Valerie Khoo's course. The sessions, which were entertaining as well as informative, equipped me with the know-how and incentive to finish my article; and it got published!"
- Andrew Wood, Wollongong

"The course was extremely well structured. It took the mystery out of how to write an article. The examples of what makes a well written piece as opposed to a poorly written piece, were really helpful. It gave me more confidence to approach new publications and helped me to understand the expectations that such publication have of me. The course was worthwhile and empowering.

"I've since moved to the Northern Territory and have become a regular correspondent for the national publication Outback Magazine. It has given me certain tools that have allowed me to make a change in how and where I live and work."
- Peter Solness, photojournalist

"I really enjoyed Valerie's course, sharing her experiences and those of the other participants really helped my writing skills.

"The hands on exercises were extremely valuable in helping me simplify my writing and most importantly creating better transitions in my work. Now - I always ask myself the question - how do I get from point A to point B, and most importantly how to I take my reader with me?"
- Sue Bradshaw, technical writer

"Valerie's course on feature writing for magazines was wonderful. We explored the nuances, tips and tricks for writing for magazines while preparing work of our own and receiving Valerie's invaluable feedback. This course provided practical steps for writing, editing and learning the steps to see your work in print."
- Julia Bowyer

"In short, what your course gave me was a good understanding of the magazine writing process. I learnt about how to choose a topical theme, research issues, interview people, and find the right the words to link elements of the article."
- David Morgan

"The course was a great kickstart to become motivated to do something about my writing, and even make money out of it! Valerie showed us very practical ways to get work into print, and taught us that you don't necessarily have to study writing to become a published writer.

"It definitely enhanced my writing skills and gave me more confidence, and also made me more critical of articles that I read. Valerie is friendly, funny and obviously very knowledgeable, making it a fun and interesting course which I looked forward to each week."
- Katie Delaney

"I would like to extend my thanks to you for such an enlightening course. The skills I have learnt from your expertise in the area of feature writing have surely inspired and motivated many people in the class, including me.

"Since taking part in your short course I have gained the necessary confidence to pursue my passion for writing, and have since successfully submitted several features to a variety of media outlets. No mountain too small I say ... thanks for leading me out of base camp!!!"
- Michelle Evans

"I loved Valerie's course as it was full of practical tips and ideas that really changed my approach to writing. The course also introduced me to some fabulous fellow budding writers."
- Caroline Thomas

"Valerie's course provides a valuable insight into the world of freelance writing. Her practical guidance and encouragement has given me the confidence to get out there and give it a go."
- Karin van Heerwaarden

"I was thoroughly impressed with the course content and its time management. It was great to learn so much in depth in a relatively short space of time. It was informative, non-threatening and extremely comprehensive. A great way to get ahead with obviously simple but effective methods!"
- Natalie Reiss

"Valerie's feature writing course is great. It's very comprehensive and easy to follow. I am now more confident in the way I approach editors with my queries and it is paying off!

"I have an article coming out in Ironman magazine and have been commissioned to do article for Fernwood magazine, with the prospect of another one."
- Lela Husen

"Excellent! Will definitely give me a head start in a freelance magazine feature writing career!"
- Monica Tan

"It was informative and easy to grasp with lots of very useful tips. Content was really good. Brilliant."
- Marcia Tsiliris

"Every bit of information that was provided was practical. Valerie's passion for writing was clearly evident and her enthusiasm to help others realise their dreams was awesome. LOVED IT LOVED IT LOVED IT.

"I would highly recommend it. I could not have imagined that I would have got so much out of it in such a small time frame."
- Ana Vavdinos

"Thanks to your support and inspiration, I am now officially able to join the ranks of your published former students. If not for your very clear message that there is so much material being published that there is definitely work out there for those who want it, I would have given up, thinking it is a closed shop. Thanks for your support."
- Carolyn Swindell

“Fantastic. Very intense! No-nonsense, thorough and clear. The best writing course out there.”
- Eden Riley

"You inspired and motivated me to believe that a freelance writing career is definitely possible. I am now a published writer! The first article I ever submitted was published in The Sydney Morning Herald. Now, a few months later, I am the web editor for mychildmagazine.com.au. Thank you to Valerie for your ongoing support, inspiration and encouragement.

"Valerie is passionate about people pursuing their dream job and the feature writing course was the beginning of my journey in believing a writing career is achievable. Valerie, thanks again for all your enthusiasm. It really is my dream job and I am still pinching myself."
- Marija Castellari

"I thought I would let you know that I have a new job as in-house travel/features journalist for caravan and motorhomes magazine! I get to publish a lot of stories - about 5 per month - plus lots of travel in the outback (!) and photographing. So thank you for all that you taught us."
- Carly Middleton

"This course really reaffirmed my passion for writing and I would recommend it to anyone interested in journalism. It tells you everything you need to know about becoming a successful freelance journalist and helps budding journalists avoid some common pitfalls when starting out. During my interviews with the Australian Financial Review, the fact that I had done even a short course, helped show that I was committed to journalism."
- Katja Buhrer, who got a job as a journalist with the Australian Financial Review within three weeks of finishing the course.

"I really enjoyed the feature writing course with Valerie and came away feeling inspired and well equipped to give it a go - I just had to be brave and get on with it! A couple of months later, I was inspired by a day trip I did and found the enthusiasm to write a 1000 word piece easily the following afternoon. I knew it was appropriate for the weekend Sydney Morning Herald so I thought I might as well aim high. 10 days later on Saturday morning I enjoyed reading my name in print! First time lucky and I'm definitely going to try some more."
- Miranda Corkin

“I knew how to write and that I wanted to make that into a career but Valerie's course taught me how to make that dream a reality. The details like how to pitch, how to stand out and what not to do were invaluable lessons. An idea I had in class turned into the City Weekly cover story and now I can't wait to build up my portfolio and get a full-time job in the print media industry. I now know this is possible and that in itself is a fantastic feeling.

“Thank you to Valerie for her ongoing support and straight to the point honesty. Having competed school and university, and had numerous teachers, Valerie has been one of the very best.”
- Tatyana Leonov

"This was the most inspiring course I've done for a long time! I will definitely be out getting started in writing, and no doubt will be back to do more courses in the future. Thank you! Overall, it was excellent. Absolutely inspiring!"
- Sue White

"Valerie is a great teacher, extremely knowledgable and has lots of great examples to illustrate her points. She is very direct and to the point which I found great for a course that is limited in its time. Overall I found the course very practical and informative."
- Eva Tanner

"Valerie was a fascinating presenter. I enjoyed the fast pace. Valerie's insights into the industry were invaluable. This was one of the best courses I've ever done."
- Anna Babatzanis

"The best thing is the clear and succinct nature in which Valerie delivers the course. It is interesting, sharp, relevant and a useful manner in which it was delivered. Ie. I never lost interest... not even for 1 minute!

"The course has improved the quality of my writing and the manner in which I deal with media (which is every week in my job... I was pretty ignorant until now). Increased my focus and clarity in writing as I now have more structure to pull all my (many, many) thoughts together... "
- Tina Demetriou, Tide Event Management

"I completed the Feature Writing for Newspapers & Magazines course back in January 2007. After a job change, a move to Queensland and a redundancy I recently got out my course notes and decided to finally focus (properly) on my dream of freelance writing. After a few weeks I'm happy to say I've been published in the Courier Mail! After emailing a short article on spec, I was commissioned to expand it - and it wound up getting a full page and colour pictures!! I have also been commissioned by Mother & Baby magazine to expand on an article I wrote as part of the course. It's all very exciting!

"Your insistence that "there's plenty of work out there if you want it" was key in motivating me to send out my articles, and I just wanted to say thanks for a great course!!"
- Stephanie Allen

"Valerie Khoo is just mesmerising to listen to. She is very inspiring and has an uncanny talent of making you believe you can be a writer."
- Linda Habak

"I just wanted to let you know that I have just started a full time job as a news reporter at Medical Observer. I just wanted to say thank you for putting me in touch with them, and also for the skills you taught me in the feature writing course. I will certainly be putting them to good use in my new job."
- Catherine Hanrahan

"Judy is a fantastic presenter - enthusiastic, passionate, helpful and very knowledgable."
- Anna Warren

"It motivated me to start writing! It gave me a boost in confidence to take my ideas seriously and do something about them. The units on how to structure a feature article were extremely helpful."
- Johanna Rigg-Smith

"I found Valerie's style and enthusiasm fantastic - she was direct, to the point and was very realistic about the expectations we should have."
- Alison Parr

"Valerie's knowledge of the industry and formulaic approach will help me pursue a career in writing. Valerie's personality and great presentation style. It was simple to follow and she was full of information."
- Marie Chemney

"I knew I could write, the course has given me more confidence that there's a career out there."
- Matthew Mcholland


"The Sydney Writers' Centre Feature Writing course is a must if you plan to tackle the world of freelance writing. Valerie Khoo not only provides an excellent class structure and industry knowledge but her enthusiasm is so infectious that you can't wait to get started! I've just had my first article published in the Autumn edition of My Child magazine and I'm hooked! Thank you so much for your invaluable class, advice and support."
- Candace Goffin


"I thoroughly enjoyed the course and am sad it is over. Pamela is a talented presenter and I admire her method of answering questions without indulging her audience too much. We all appreciated her wealth of experience."
- Meryl Hancock

"I found the course really relevant. Even though I have a background in journalism, I got a lot of practical information from the course which I can definitely apply to freelance writing in the future. I particularly enjoyed the modules 'Know your market' and 'Sell your work and see it in print'. "
- Belinda Zammit

"Confidence, confidence, confidence! And then there are a few more benefits. Suffice to say, I now know so much more about feature writing than I did five weeks ago, despite a lifetime of reading many different kinds of magazines, newspapers, online articles. For five years, I coordinated articles for local newspapers so what more could there be to learn about writing for newspapers? So much and so much more again. Now I feel that I can really be a feature writer. It's up to me."
- Robyn Sharp


"I've also been signed on as a regular freelance contributor with the Herald Sun Home Magazine, something that has meant I am now freelancing four days a week! It has been an amazing few months since I finished the course and I have to say, none of this would have been possible without your incredible skill and advice. So, many thanks once again for such a fabulous course, it really has changed my life!"
- Penny Harrison


"I really liked Pamela. She was enthusiatic, experience and informative. A really excellent presenter - friendly and helpful. She obviously knew what she was talking about and made the whole class feel supported."
- Catrin May
 

"Pamela is a great teacher, very encouraging and motivating. There is an enormous amount of information covered, and by the end of the course you feel prepared to begin the freelance journey."
- Aja Stuart

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Feature Writing for Magazines and Newspapers Stage 2

"The course was chock-full on useful information. The presenter made it lively and informative and had fantastic industry knowledge and experience. I feel more confident and informed on how to go about pitching ideas - and coming up with them in the first place."
- Sylvia Aitken

"I like the fact that Judy works in the field and brings real knowledge to the course; she's very helpful and approachable. I did a similar course at [another organisation] last year and I must say that this one was, by far, superior. What was so great about your course was the small class size that enabled us to address questions as a group. It really was a far superior course to the one I did last year! Well done!"
- Kerstin Pilz

"Judy really knows her stuff and as always (this was my 5th course with the Sydney Writers' Centre) the content, delivery and genuinely sincere interest in students’ success was obvious. Whilst the original class (Feature Writing Stage 1) was good enough to springboard a lot of students to success, I’m glad I paid the extra for the Masterclass. The value of the extra knowledge quickly became obvious as both a condensed recap and advanced understanding of the freelance journalistic environment."
 - Grant Hyman – author of ‘A Practical Guide to Selling’.

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Successful Freelancing Seminar

"The Successful Freelancing Seminar is invaluable for all freelancers, from those just launching their freelancing career through to experienced writers looking for a motivational boost.

"Valerie enthusiastically shares her expertise, both as a writer and editor, providing participants with excellent 'inside information' to ensure their own success."
- Briar Jensen, freelance writer and photojournalist

"For someone taking their first freelancing steps, attending the seminar on how to survive as a freelancer was one of the best things I could have done.

"Valerie Khoo and Gayle Bryant gave a concise, intensive and extremely comprehensive overview of all the things a new freelancer needs to know about the industry, from pitching stories to protecting copyright to chasing payment. I came away from the evening feeling so motivated and excited about the possibilities"
- Bianca Nogrady

"I enjoyed the informal atmosphere and the fact that we could be involved in the discussion. I also enjoyed Valerie's enthusiasm and encouragement. It was a great way to meet other writers/editors and to gain more confidence in the idea that you can actually be in control of a freelance career. It was interesting and not too overloaded with information - a great mix."
- Deborah Ronald

"Since attending the Successful Freelancing Seminar in February I have had three stories accepted for a
parenting publication and have begun writing for business publications. The seminar motivated me and pointed me in the right direction. Thank you!"
- Sandy Leen

"I was at the Successful Freelancing seminar last night and just wanted to say thanks. I came up from Melbourne especially for it, and it was definitely worth the trip!"
- Daniel Papas

"It was great. The presenters were both very knowledgeable and obviously knew what they were talking about. A great resource of information. I feel confident to finally start freelancing!"
- Vanessa Imrie

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Self-publishing - How to do it

"Exactly what I needed to give me the confidence to go forward. Little things like how to get an ISBN, and the handout to use a guide for process and layout were invaluable when you haven't got a clue. Thank you. I now know I can 'have a go'."
- Lynda Bennett

"It was good to meet other writers who have actually self-published - and succeeded. It was useful to hear both the positive and negative aspects of self-publishing.

"I found the discussion on marketing helpful and, even though it sounds challenging, it's great to be creative and think of the book as a product that simply need to be sold!"
- Wendy Quisumbing

"Thanks so much for your seminar, it was awesome! I thought the seminar was extremely well organised and the content was to the point and very helpful for aspiring self publishers. My partner and I are going to work on our book - thanks so much!"
- Vanessa Volpato

"It was particularly refreshing to see two enthusiastic and honest people who were positive and committed to the art of self-publishing.

"The most useful part for me was the wealth of information on printing costs which appears to be a large part of self-publishing in addition to other factors such as PR/marketing. It was conducted in a friendly and open environment with a lot of relevant and thoughtful information - I enjoyed it!"
- Michelle O'Neill

"Thank you so much for the Self-Publishing course. It was so informative - the advice on printing was excellent but the advice on the "small business" you become when selling your own book was invaluable.

"The information about advertising, publicity, methods of selling etc would be essential to anyone with a small business, whether they're selling a book or not.

"You and Ian were very honest and generous with your time and experience. It was not just theory, you've both achieved this, and that was really motivating."
- Claire O'Connor

"I spent 3 years thinking about, and then 18 months seriously researching and writing my new book, 'A Practical Guide to Selling'. The problem was that the more I learned, the more I realised how much I didn't know, as my research kept coming up with new questions.

"3 courses with Sydney Writers' Centre totalling a little over a day and less than a thousand dollars not only saved me as much as 12-18 months in further research, but also gave me insights and perspectives that could have cost me years - imagine a false start to the book AFTER I had gone to print!

"Whether you want to simply learn more so you can make an informed go/no-go decision on your writing future, or you have made the decision to try writing for pleasure or profit, Sydney Writers' Centre is the only way to go 'in my book' - I literally couldn't have done it without them!"
- Grant Hyman
Proud Author of 'A Practical Guide to Selling'

"Our books How To Grow Your Business By Taking 3 Months Off and The Invisible Entrepreneur would have never seen the light of day without the knowledge gained as a result of attending the Sydney Writers' Centre workshops. The truth be known, we were greener than green in the field of self publishing, writing and crafting a book, and PR in promoting books. The Sydney Writers' Centre provided us with a blueprint to get us on this journey.

"We do not believe that we could have succeeded to the level we are enjoying today without the help of the Sydney Writers' Centre. We are deeply indebted, privileged and blessed to have found Sydney Writers' Centre and be coached by its tutors."
- Louise Woodbury and William de Ora

"The Self Publishing seminar at the Sydney Writers' Centre was informative and inspiring. The seminar not only covered the process of how to self-publish, but brought it alive with specific examples of how others have put this information into practice. I would highly recommend this seminar to anyone who is exploring their options of how to realize their publishing dream."
- Karen Adamedes

"I knew within the first three minutes I had already made my money back ... and then some."
- John Myers, Author of Tsunami Sudoku

"It was good to look at the examples of other people's self published books and hear their stories."
- Julie Macken

"Well I've done it. Little Wins for Working Women is my first "Little" book. Thanks for your encouragement over the past couple of years, I'm really enjoying my writing. I'm working on a couple of new ideas now and will share any success they bring in the future."
- Jen Dalitz

"The information was very practical and it answered a lot of questions I had on self publishing."
- Annalaura Luna

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Travel Writing

"I loved that the tips and tricks of the trade really were useful and that Geoff was kind enough to share them. Having him as a new networking partner to run ideas by has also increased my motivation! Thank you so much!"
- Monique Kinerson

"I really enjoyed the seminar. As a complete novice to the writing game, I found the hints and tips great - its helped me start to fomulate all the travel stories I have collected over the past few years into pieces that might be of interest to an editor somewhere!"
- Alison Fox

"The presenter was excellent - very prepared, great examples, and very patient with our questions. I left satisfied that everything I had hoped to get information on had been covered, and with some very solid examples as a future guide."
- Alyson Warnock

"It was exactly what I was looking for and catered to all levels of the group. I thought it was very informative, concise and the presenter was very honest about the industry. I felt I got a lot out of it and will definitely be using that information."
- Caitlin Wright

"The presenter was very entertaining. He was very informative and I walked away with lots more ideas."
- Caroline Kerr

"Lots of good quality information from someone who not only knows how to do it, but who actually does it. There was nice relaxed atmosphere, it was good value and I really enjoyed it."
- Jill Farmer

"Just wanted to write and say I attended the Travel Writers seminar. It was fantastic. The realistic life experiences provided gave us all insight into the truth about the industry and what we should expect. He was completely honest and I can not wait to get stuck into my freelance writing.

"I will definitely be recommending and also attending other writing courses in the future. The course was also great for meeting other contacts in this industry and professionals who can assist with editing etc."
- Nicole Beatty

"The presenter had real knowledge and experience, this was displayed by anecdotes and real life stories of success and failures in travel writing."
- Tim McKeon

"Being an absolute novice but having an interest in travel writing, Geoff provided insider knowledge and helpful information and tips. I now know where to start and feel enabled to do so. Thank you."
- Gabrielle Martin

"Content was practical and speaker, experienced and happy to help."
- Stephanie Bennett

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How to get your book published

"Geoff really was engaging, funny and knowledgable. I got more then I expected to get in a two hour period. The seminar was very good and I learnt a lot. It is also enabled me to think about new ideas and possible new angles for my own book idea."
- Tim Lassig

"The seminar was excellent. The information was meaty, useful, succinct and clearly communicated."
- Joanne Hutton

"The seminar created much needed confidence regarding approaching publishers and how to present ourself/our work to a publisher."
- Alan Blake

"Geoff was very approachable and had excellent advice. All of the questions I had in mind when I booked the seminar were answered in one way or another. Geoff knew the industry really well."
- Eric Grayson

"I really enjoyed the seminar. I feel more confident about the stories I have written and more confident in approaching publishers."
- Roenna Baker

"Great info told in a no nonsense, real yet inspirational way. Well organised, extremely good value and very comprehensive given short duration. It was very well presented, very helpful. I've been able to draft a strong book proposal today. "
- Michael Neaylon

"Positive and inspiring with specific tactics and notes on all of it was provided as well as generous offers of follow up support."
- Linda Bates

"Geoff was incredibly informative. He answered everything I wanted to know without me even asking."
- Megan Hughes

"You need to read the market before you start even contemplating send a book to a publisher. Geoff took all the romance out of publishing your book and I enjoyed his business approach. Very realistic."
- Emma House

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Media releases that get results

"It has helped me think about where I want to go in my career, and how to get there. It gave me a much clearer understanding of the PR industry and the purpose of media releases as opposed to other written documents."
- Caroline Tapper

"It was great seminar - we covered a lot of information in a short period of time. It was particularly useful to learn about targeting media releases to the relevant media and understanding how the media works."
- Kristin Romanis, The Centre for Volunteering

"The seminar on Media releases that get results was great value. The presenter took the group through every aspect of media releases, starting from what a media release is, onto how to write it and which editors/ journalists to target.

"The seminar was fun and we took home a folder that has become a great reference when writing my press releases. The main benefit for me was to understand how to correctly structure the press release so that it catches the editors attention and is presented as worthwhile information, not just a ‘sell’."
- Rebecca Tauer, Executive Computing Pty Ltd

"The seminar Media releases that get results was very comprehensive and easy to understand. The ‘take-home‘ workbook was particularly valuable because it contained useful guidelines and real life examples of media releases."
- Marilyn Britton

"The seminar Media releases that get results was practical and informative. The fact that it was offered to a small group meant that information and suggestions were personalised, and the ensuing discussion was both comfortable and helpful.

"A comprehensive folder of resources has been a ready reference since the seminar. I look forward to attending further Sydney Writers' Centre seminars."
- Tracey Edstein, Editor, Aurora

"The seminar was a good holistic view of media release writing. It was like a full day course crammed into a four hour session, but still meaningful and good value. The structure of the course and materials facilitated learning and taking notes. The most useful aspect was the structure of media release writing.

"The presenter was engaging and endeavoured to answer all questions. The course materials were used well and many examples were used instead of just one or two."
- James Elton, Media & Communications Officer, Parramatta City Council

"The seminar was informal with plenty of room for participant input. It was well worth attending."
- Prue Sepp, Lake Macquarie Council

"The seminar was practical and interactive. It provided useful tools for my role."
- Lynn Varvel, Inala

" Excellent ideas and polished presentation. It was well-researched and it was great to hear ideas from other attendees. I'm looking forward to attending another workshop."
- Mary Jane Trujillo, Mount St Benedict College

"The seminar was fantastic - I would highly recommend this to others."
- Carolyn Dean, Inner Focus

"The presenter made everything interesting. She fit a lot into a short space of time, but I did not feel like I was cheated for information at all. Having a small group was also very beneficial to the learning process. The presenter's knowledge was invaluable."
- Danielle Keech, Bathurst City Council

"The structure of the seminar was very good - and the use of examples was really helpful. It was very professional, very well organised - extremely beneficial."
- Katy Wood, Voiceless

"The whole day was kept interesting by the fact that many of the points that were made were backed by entertaining real life stories that really painted an exciting picture of the media world.

"The folder was very handy enabling you to follow the points being made easily and also a good reference point for the future. The seminar was to the straight forward and to the point. The presenter has clearly had a lot of experience in the field so I feel like she passed on the lessons that she has learnt over the years, but summarised them into half a day!"
- Verity Lomax

"Your media release writing course has paid off for me in terms of publicity. I could not be happier. Thanks for the great advice. It works!"
- Atlanta Camilleri, Recovery Coach

"The course content was very relevant to my needs. I now have a clear understanding of where to go from here without feeling as if I was stumbling in the dark."
- Sue Hamilton

"It was very useful and the examples were great. Very clear and practical advice on the skills of writing media releases. The seminar has raised my confidence in my ability to write an effective release."
- Leanne Torres

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Editing essentials

"There were some really useful tips especially for business writing about getting to the point early. The style manual is really clear and concise - I will be creating something similar for use in our organisation."
- Jill Dorey

“It was exactly the course I was looking for presented in just one day. The booklet is also a fabulous tool to take home.”
- Bianca Luykx

"The workshop on Editing Essentials facilitated by Katrina Lobley was an eye-opening experience into all the dos and don'ts of writing. As a journalist and PR consultant, the material learned in this course can be applied to all aspects of my job including media release writing, article writing and proposal writing.

"Thank you Katrina for teaching me to have confidence in my writing, and to Valerie for providing an educational facility that's worthwhile. I look forward to attending many more courses."
- Dionne Moskow, Journalist & PR consultant.

"I found the course to be well structured and useful. The length of the course and the content covered was ideal. I thought Katrina was lovely and she was a great tutor.

"The commonly misused words guide and the idea of putting together a house style guide most useful."
- Lyndall Druery

"I really enjoyed learning the tips on grammar, punctuation and publications. Katrina was fantastic. She was very approachable and made the seminar interesting and fun. Her years of experience and passion for writing really shined. I would recommend this to anyone involved in writing or editing."
- Lauren Brown, Elixir Health Care

"I felt that the seminar was certainly worthwhile. I appreciate having the folder to help me take the information away. I can now keep it near my workspace for revision."
- Lara Oram

"Katrina is one of the best presenters I have ever met."
- Martin Hadley

"The presenter was very good, she allowed everyone some input whilst keeping the course on track. She was very interesting, her obvious experience and occasional anecdote brought life to the seminar. It was well organised and professionally run."
- Fiona Brown

"It was useful and interesting. Katrina was great!"
- Shelley Hepworth

"I was very impressed with everything. I thought Katrina was excellent and covered every question possible."
- Carla Hickey

"I enjoyed the knowledge and experience of the tutor."
- Fran Strachan

"I will definitely take some of the information I learned and implement it in my field. It was an easy flowing day with lots of good tips."
- Jessica Rubinstein

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Grammar and punctuation essentials

"The instructor knew her stuff! And when she saw some of us having trouble understanding it she either went back over the material or made it easier for us to follow. For me, it made clear some of the grammar I had already learnt but was very fuzzy on.

"As an aspiring editor this course has given me a brief glimpse into what that profession requires. It has also shown me that I can really learn and use this knowledge, especially if there was more time for it to sink in."
- Mark Quisumbing

"I feel much more confident with the basic rules of grammar and punctuation that once baffled me."
- Sunni Hughes

"It was a great refresher and I came away feeling empowered and enlightened."
- Bronwen Stinson

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Professional business writing

"Excellent presenter who tailored course to participants' needs. 3 AHA! moments made it worth the fee alone. The take-home course notes and style guide are an excellent ongoing resource."
- Claire O'Connor

"The course has given me the methodology to revise the structure of our proposals, to make them more focused and meaningful. Overall a practical, informative course and great value!"
- Fiona Brown

"The presenter was very good. She had a good style and was very knowledgeable about business writing."
- Sharon Collins

"I though the presenter brought a wealth of industry knowledge."
- Wei-Khing Seow

"It's been a week since the course and I have been drafting management reports. Already, my manager has commented that I have improved my writing skills. Thanks to the presenter."
- John Lawson

"I found the course terrific. I can apply the ideas and methodology directly to the various forms of writing I am required to do - from academic to work reports."
- Jan Campbell

"This course had provided me with the right skills and direction to be able to improve my professional writing. The seminar was held is a pleasant relaxed atmosphere, which made the day enjoyable."
- Jason Leung

"Great environment, relaxed speaker. Took away some important points on writing that will be useful in my day-to day job and came away with more points on effective writing."
- Davina Poletto

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Writing for the web

"I'm excited! I've got the inside scoop on the all the crazy stuff that makes writing for the web so different to the printed word. Work just got easier. And way more fun - in a word nerdy kind of way."
- Meghan Thompson

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ONLINE Feature writing for magazines and newspapers

"It was a fantastic insight into the world of feature writing, I learned much more than I thought I would. It has given me the confidence to take my writing further."
- Aoife McGee

“It was great being able to do it in your own time and being to pause and rewind to listen to parts over. Question and answer format was great too, really enjoyed getting feedback from Valerie.”
- Susie Wicks

"The most enjoyable part of the course is the ability to get the course done without hassles. The online concept is fantastic, and makes the course accessible. Also the fact that the course is delivered by a professional - who is also accessible. Valerie has earned her stripes, but speaks as though she is next to you, not a cut above."
- Tim McKeon

"The flexible format was excellent. Valerie's presentation style was easy to follow and her practical insights into the industry were really valuable."
- David Kennedy

"My knowledge and skills base as a writer has improved dramatically. Valerie gives all of that 'insider knowledge' that can make or break. I really enjoyed doing this course online. I've done other distance education but this was different. It didn't feel like there was any distance. The ability to post questions and have them answered the same week was great. I also found yet ANOTHER use for my ipod!"
- Brooke Andrews

"I've learnt practical tools to make my writing better, more interesting and more descriptive, and I now feel much more confident when being asked to write."
- Rene Chambers

"It has suprised me how much I have learnt from this course in such a short time. The course exceeded my expectations."
- Gail Andrews

"Thank you for your online 'writing for magazines and newspapers' course. Since completing your course I have been published in Insight magazine and French Provincial, with two more proposals accepted for the end of
the year. I have also been sub-editing for a small women's magazine.

"Although I had writing experience before your course, I didn't believe that the magazine industry was possible to break into. The language you use in the course is very empowering and the advice is practical."
- Amanda

"I wanted to write and tell you some exciting news since I finished the online feature writing course with you. The idea I put forward as my pitch in the course (a travel story on Griffith in NSW) has since been published in The Sydney Morning Herald Traveller section and I have another travel story coming out in the September issue of Coast and Country Magazine.

"I've also been signed on as a regular freelance contributor with the Herald Sun Home Magazine, something that has meant I am now freelancing four days a week! It has been an amazing few months since I finished the course and I have to say, none of this would have been possible without your incredible skill and advice. So, many thanks once again for such a fabulous course, it really has changed my life!!"
- Penny Harrison

"I am writing to let you know that I can now call myself a professional writer! I submitted a piece for online publication ActNow, they published it last week and I will even get paid for it."
- Stephanie Johnston

"Very easy. The access to excellent materials is convenient and simple. The best thing is being able to go back to the lectures and listen to them again and again. (and once more)."
- Chris Fitzgerald

"The emphasis on the structure of articles was very useful, particularly around transitions, case studies and quoting interviewees. I could see how to easily make improvements to pieces I had written in the past when I re-read them after the course."

"I thought the presentation was very clear in terms of emphasising important points and not assuming any prior knowledge. I enjoyed the example articles and the commentary interspersed from Valerie were helpful."
- Simone Brandon

"I feel I know have an understanding of the techniques I've been needing to approach editors, construct and produce articles that will get published."
- Fran Tann

"The course equipped me with all the practical information I needed to get started in my new career as a freelance writer. I learned how to develop and pitch appropriate ideas to editors, techniques for improving my writing plus countless insider tips that have helped me behave professionally in my dealings with magazines and newspapers. I believed I was a reasonable writer before I did the course but doing it has enabled me to get published.

"I am now working as a writer and recommend 'Online Feature Writing for Magazines & Newspapers' to anyone wishing to do the same."
- Persephone Nicholas

"I completed Valerie's online course in November 2008. By Christmas, I had secured my first freelance writing job! I was completely amazed at how quickly it all happened. Without Valerie's support and encouragement and of course the user-friendly online course, I would never have had the confidence to apply for this ongoing freelance writing position. If you follow Valerie's expert advice you really can't go wrong."
- Jo Harris

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ONLINE Creative Writing - Stage 1

"I just wanted to send Cathie, Valerie and the team a VERY BIG THANK YOU for coaching me in our online Creative Writing course. The information I received during the course has been invaluable and gave me the tools I needed to become one of the 28 winning co-writers of James Patterson’s Chain Thriller AirBorne.

"I still cannot believe the news… but as I have had emails from Random House and my name has been posted on Facebook, I had better get my head around it!"
- Kylie Williams

"I am so pleased you put this together!! I have a two year old who I am home with four days per week so the minute he went down for his midday sleep I would dash for the computer. I found the presenter's voice and sense of humour a delight to listen to and Pamela's exercises fun.

"It was great to be able to stop the recording and go back where I missed something or was too slow in taking notes and the handouts will be a great reference for later on. The availability of the online course to us 'out of towners' was great. There is not always a lot available when you get out from the main cities. Also, being able to listen to it at any time of the day was very convenient.

"Thank you to everyone involved in getting this course up and running, it was just what I was needing to do."
- Nicole Stenson

"I enjoyed the clarity of the course material - both the recorded lectures and the handouts. Also, feedback on assignments was consistently helpful. I now understand some key tools used in creative writing in a formal sense - previously I was aware of them without fully understanding them.

"The online mode of delivery provided me with a non-threatening way of getting involved in learning about creative writing at my own pace."
- David Andrews

"It was very easy and convenient to do online and the handouts were good and you knew exactly when to look at them, it was all very well organised. I loved how I could do things in my own time."
- Ruby Rebic

“The delivery was excellent and the handouts were the right quantity. The critique session was excellent - I now have a better idea and concept of the writing process. I have a lot to learn and now have some direction."
- David Walker

"The written feedback was excellent - personalised and detailed. The rewriting and redrafting process has been a really valuable insight.

"It was an advantage to listen to the tutorials as many times as you wanted. Revisiting everyone's work after thinking things through was also useful."
- Sue Sim

"I have learnt to approach writing as a craft and not simply to expect that inspiration will ooze out my pores whenever I sit down to write. I am also better acquainted with the creative writing process."
- Karen Hamilton

"Yes, very easy and convenient, and could be completed anywhere and anytime within the week. It was very straightforward to download the modules."
- Dale Whybrow

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Audio workshop
Reinvent Yourself - So you want to be a writer ...

"I just wanted to let you know that I bought your 'Reinvent Yourself' Audio Workshop and absolutely loved it. It really gave me a lot of food for thought, and excellent prompts."
- Nicole Forster

"I completed the Writing for newspapers and magazines in January this year. Since then I have also purchased and currently using the Reinvent Yourself audio program. I'm just writing to let you know that these two courses have really helped me focus on my writing and encouraged me to write more frequently and with more focus and structure.

"With the help of both courses I have now made writing a part of my everyday life, rather than just a hobby that I do when I have time. I feel that my confidence is building and I'm moving forward with my passion. Thank you. I could not have made these simple changes without your guidance."
- Natalie Devlin

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