Write on: Ted Reilly with other Geelong Writers members.
JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
WRITING is often considered a solitary affair, with images of the beleaguered author single-handedly facing the challenge of the blank page.
Similarly, a reader is often part of a private one-on-one with the author through the medium of the written word.
But a group of local enthusiast sknows of ways to overcome any fears of facing the challenge and beating writer’s block.
Geelong Writers is proof that the work of the wordsmith can occur in unison and that public readings can be liberating.
President Ted Reilly said Geelong was home to a wide array of writers, from beginners to emerging authors and seasoned professionals.
“We formed to provide support for writers and to promote writing and literature in the region,” Ted said.
“Geelong Writers is a community writing group outside the academic world because there are no other easily accessible writing courses in the area now.
“We also find there are people who see writing as a form of therapy and it helps to actualise their experiences.”
Ted said the group ran a number of development workshops such as tips on increasing vocabulary, personal and romance writing and radio drama.
“The group has become a process to assist inexperienced writers to learn from those with more experience.
“We have a lot of former teachers and experienced and qualified people who give their time freely.
“We can all make new discoveries – you can re-learn certain skills as you go along.”
The group publishes members’ work through a regular newsletter, Geelong Ink, and an annual anthology.
Geelong Writers recently published its first literary journal, Azuria, featuring the works of local and international writers.
Members enjoy a regular Thursday night social gathering at Elephant and Castle Hotel where a relaxed atmosphere helps new writers gain confidence.
“This region is a good place to write for many, particularly writers who prefer quiet to metropolitan bustle,” Ted said.
“The group holds a number of public readings. Poets have always read their work.
“It’s a social setting and changes the dynamic of writing, it becomes a performance. It also gives the writer quick feedback.
“We often combine reading with music or even dance and it provides another outlet for writers.”
Ted said more information about the group was available at visit geelongwriters.com.
