Regional Writes to assist local authors

Local writers can get professional help to fine-tune and publish their own work as part of an exciting new literary program being launched in the lead up to the much-anticipated Cooroy Library opening.

Local author and director of the recent Reality Bites Festival, Annette Hughes, will be the Regional Writes writer-in-residence at the Cooroy Butter Factory Arts Centre. Would-be writers can choose from a variety of workshops and mentoring sessions from September to December 2009.

Divisional Councillor Lew Brennan said the program was a rare chance for local writers to get professional tips on how to get published.

“This program is another exciting example of council assisting with the development of creative and artistic talent in the region," he said.

"We have been successful in obtaining financial assistance from the Queensland Government to enable us to help our community develop their writing skills."

Participants can expect to be motivated and inspired, according to the program's writer-in-residence, Annette Hughes.

“Writing, like any art, is a craft that can be learned – success comes with practice and dedication,” she said.

"This program of workshops is for both amateurs and emerging writers, whether you have ambitions to see your work in print or just want to get your thoughts down on paper.”

The workshops will provide valuable insights into the business of publishing, life writing, reading for creative writing and self-editing.

There is also a mentorship on offer for the most promising manuscript by a Sunshine Coast author – a fantastic opportunity to work with a professional assessor.

“If you have a manuscript in your bottom drawer, dig it out and dust it off for submission," Annette said.

Regional Writes will also introduce the concept of Community Blogging, an initiative to capture the thoughts and efforts of the local community.

During the course of the residency, community members are invited to contribute their own stories to the Community Blogging Project, which will be launched to coincide with the opening of the library expected in March 2010. Individuals and local community groups can learn how to set up their own blogs and link to each other, creating a virtual and physical community with the new Learning Centre at its hub.

The Regional Writes Project is funded by an Arts Queensland Development and Presentation Grant, RADF and Sunshine Coast Regional Council Learning Communities.

Fees vary for each session. For details about the program and cost, phone 5472 0107 or visit [email protected] or go to the website: www.regionalwrites.blogspot.com

More about the author

Annette Hughes is an industry expert with many years experience in publishing from every possible angle - bookseller, publisher, agent and author. Her recent book, Art Life Chooks: Learning to leave the city and love the country (Harper Collins Fourth Estate) is about her tree change from the big smoke of Sydney to the Noosa Hinterland and her attempt to live ethically and sustainably.