Welcome to our November Newsletter.
Firstly, a big thank you to all who entered our 2025 Short Story Competition. We are now closed for submissions.
Keep an eye out as we will announce the winners in our December Newsletter.
Next week, we’ll be welcoming writers into our final 4-Week Unlocking Creativity Online Course for 2025. There are still a few places remaining in this course for those interested in starting their creative writing journey with us.
For writers eager to join us in person, enrolments are open for our final Live-in-Studio Unlocking Creativity Course for 2025 commencing 20 November, with early bird pricing still available. We encourage you to secure your spot as soon as you can before this offer expires tomorrow at 5pm.
As the year begins to wind down, it’s a natural time for reflection on how far we’ve come, what we’ve created, and the stories still waiting to be told.
It’s been inspiring to see the passion and progress of our writing community. From short stories taking shape in the Six-Week Short Story Courses to novels, memoirs, and screenplays developing in our Novel & Script Courses, writers have continued to surprise themselves with what dedication and imagination can achieve.
Discovering How to Write a Novel That Works — Step by Step
Writing a novel or screenplay that other people will want to read doesn’t happen by accident.
To write the best story you are capable of, you need a step by step process, you need to do the work, and you need support and guidance.
At the Writers’ Studio, we’ve spent over 30 years refining a clear and practical pathway that takes writers from the seed of an idea through to a complete manuscript. The process helps demystify storytelling by breaking it down into achievable steps, giving you the tools to turn raw inspiration into a well-structured, emotionally engaging story.
Many writers begin with a spark of an idea and a deep desire to write, but often struggle with where to start or how to keep going when the writing gets hard. Our courses are designed to guide you through those challenges, helping you stay connected to your story and committed to your writing goals.
Ellen Clarke has been on the journey with the Writers’ Studio for a number of years and this is her experience:
Over the past few years I’ve been slowly working my way through almost all the courses the Writers’ Studio offers – short story and novel programs, and I can’t speak highly enough of my experience with them.
I was one of those people who always wanted to write a novel ‘someday’ – my first attempt on my own got stuck, so for my second attempt I decided to find someone to teach me how to do it, and I’m so glad I landed here.
The guidance and knowledge and accountability and enthusiasm for stories I’ve received from every tutor I’ve worked with across all the courses I’ve done has been consistently amazing – and now that I’m about 4 chapters from the end of my first novel (with ideas for about six more) I can happily say I’ve learned how to write a novel, and I wouldn’t be where I am without the Writers’ Studio.
I’m grateful to have found these programs and highly recommend them to anyone wanting support for their writing.
And here is Jillian Green’s writing journey with us:
I have been with the Writers’ Studio since I began my writing journey over four years ago. I started with the 4 week Unlocking Creativity Course and then moved through the 10-month First draft Novel writing course and then the second, third and third draft Part 2 courses. If it sounds as if I’m addicted you’d be right. But addicted for good reason.
I have learnt so much about writing and I definitely would have given up on my dream of writing a novel if I hadn’t had the support and knowledge from the Writers’ Studio. My knowledge of character development and story elements has improved with the result that my writing has become so much better. I am now in a much better place to realise my goal. Many thanks to the Writers’ Studio for the detailed course notes, newsletters and opportunities along the way that have provided much needed guidance and inspiration!
We are always grateful and proud when we hear how our courses enrich writers’ lives and help create compelling stories that come to life on the page.
If you’ve ever dreamed of writing a novel or screenplay but weren’t sure where to begin, our pathway of courses provides a clear, supportive framework to guide you every step of the way. Wherever you are in your writing journey, the right structure, tools, and encouragement can make all the difference, helping you turn your creative vision into a story that truly works.
Christmas Gift Certificates!
Did you know we offer gift certificates for both the Unlocking Creativity Online and Live-in-Studio courses?
If you are thinking about creative Christmas presents, this would be an excellent gift for any writer and creative in your life!
You might have a loved one who has been wanting to write but needs a push, or is wanting to develop their writing further. Unlocking Creativity is the perfect stepping stone in helping them achieve their goals. Plus, it is such a generous act to support people in realising their creative dream.
The Certificate will arrive almost instantly in your inbox. Valid for 3 years, the recipient will have the choice to select the course dates that suit them!
Learn More About Our Gift Certificates
Intensive 6-Week Short Story Course
The 6-Week Short Story Writers’ Gym Course will keep your writing process alive and inspired as you learn some key story dynamics that will help you create compelling moral dilemmas and develop your characters, writing and storytelling skills.
It also gives writers considering the 10-Month Novel & Script First Draft Course an excellent opportunity to explore ideas before embarking on the longer journey of writing your novel or screenplay.
This comprehensive short story course starts on the 25th of February, designed for writers who have completed Unlocking Creativity and are looking to continue their writing journey. Enrol as early as you can to secure your spot!
Success Stories
Not My Shame by Martina Zangger
Congratulations to Martina Zangger, an alumna of the Writers’ Studio, whose intensely personal memoir, Not My Shame has been published by Ventura Press and is out now!
A testament to the power of female courage and strength, this intensely personal memoir reveals how one woman confronted her dark past and broke free from lifelong trauma bonds.
No longer silenced by shame, Martina’s greatest discovery is that love doesn’t have to be dangerous, that it can be respectful and kind instead. This is her story, and it is a story of hope for all survivors.
In Martina’s words, “I attended several courses at the Writer’s Studio, beginning with Unlocking Creativity and later completing two of the Novel & Script Writing Courses. These programs were instrumental in getting me started on my creative writing journey, after many years focused solely on academic writing and completing a PhD. Creative writing was like being freed of a straight jacket. I not only learned an enormous amount, but also met wonderful, supportive people at the Writer’s Studio. Five years later, my memoir Not My Shame has now been published by Ventura Press, and it all began at the Writer’s Studio.”
Click here to buy Not My Shame
Grief is a Man in the Tree and Fractures by Joey Hespe
Congratulations to Joey Hespe, an alumna of the Writers’ Studio, whose poem, Grief is a Man in the Tree has been longlisted for the 2025 Grieve Project by the Hunter Writers Centre. Her short story, Fractures, has also been longlisted for the 2025 Newcastle Short Story Award!
Grief is a Man in the Tree was conceived during a quiet moment of reflection, when the shifting colours of leaves seemed to form a face in the branches. That image inspired a meditation on how loss can inhabit the everyday.
Fractures is a contemporary literary romance about a man who hides behind a carefully constructed persona—until one woman sees through him. Exploring themes of emotional avoidance and the masks people create, the story delves into how desire can expose the very parts of ourselves we most try to conceal.
In Joey’s words, “The Writers’ Studio has been integral in transforming my dream of writing into a reality. Through their courses (Unlocking Creativity to Third Draft Part Two), I learnt the importance of a daily writing routine as well as pushing through the uncomfortable parts of writing. I gained the confidence to pursue entering writing prizes, refine my voice, and share work that feels true to who I am becoming as a writer. I’m deeply grateful for the guidance and community that continues to inspire my growth and success.”
Click here to buy Grieve Volume 12 and support Joey’s writing journey.
Eternal by Belinda Mawby
Congratulations to Belinda Mawby, an alumna of the Writers’ Studio, whose short story, Eternal has won the 2025 Zip Print Short Story Award with Library & Archives NT!
Eternal is about how you make meaning out of something that doesn’t make sense. The piece explores ageing, communal grief, death, burial, choice, and control, focusing on a child’s devotion and a mother’s guidance through symbols of love and destiny. It demonstrates the profound impact a single life can have and when that soul is gone how important it is to begin writing a new chapter.
In Belinda’s words, “Since beginning my journey with the Writers Studio through the Unlocking Creativity Course, I have continued to build on my skills by completing both the Novel & Script First and Second Draft Courses. I am proud of my accomplishments and grateful to the Studio for fostering my confidence and supporting me to realise my potential as a writer. The Studio fosters a unique environment encouraging both creativity and structure which has enhanced all aspects of my writing. Thanks for a wild ride!”
Click here to see all winners in the 2025 Northern Territory Literary Awards!
Share the Good News!
If you have completed courses with the Writers’ Studio and you’ve earned recognition for your writing in competitions or received awards, we’d love to showcase and celebrate your accomplishments.
Please share a brief note along with relevant details or links to wstudio@writerstudio.com.au with the subject line “Success Stories.”
Giveaways!
Sing to Me
Thanks to WestWords, we have 3 copies of Writers’ Studio alumnus, Jelena Curic’s debut novel, Sing to Me, to give away!
Sing to Me tells the story of Pero, a Croatian immigrant, father, husband, musician, and philanderer who drinks too much and gambles the family’s income. When Yugoslavia’s President Tito dies and his mother’s health fails, Pero feels he must return “home”.
Traversing villages and cities hushed by the communist regime, revisiting the majestic waterfalls of Plitvice Jezera and the snow-covered peaks of the Velebit Mountains, Pero is compelled to face a past that he has tried to forget.
For your chance to win a copy of Jelena’s novel, email with your name, address, the book title and your mobile number to: rsvp@writerstudio.com.au
The Madame Blanc Mysteries: Season 4
Thanks to Acorn Media, we have 3 DVDs to give away to cosy crime comedy drama series, The Madame Blanc Mysteries: Season 4.
Jean White (Sally Lindsay) is an antiques dealer who runs a successful business with her husband, Rory. But when he suddenly dies and leaves her nearly penniless, Jean relocates to their one remaining asset – a cottage in French antiques hub Saint Victoire – and begins investigating Rory’s mysterious passing. She uses her skills to become a PI, aiding the local police and simultaneously bonding with the town’s popular taxi driver.
You can watch the trailer here
For your chance to win, email with your name, address, the series title and your mobile to: rsvp@writerstudio.com.au
Recent Course Feedback
Some snippets of the wonderful feedback that we receive back from recently completed courses.
“I have really enjoyed the First Draft course. It challenged me, pushed me to go further than I’d dared previously, got me through the scary middle doldrums, and has given me confidence to play more, dare more, trust myself more and just enjoy creating – within a process and framework that means I’m not just going in circles. The materials and support are top notch. I would definitely recommend it. Sincere thanks for making writing dreams achievable.” Gerard, First Draft Course
“I was blown away by the breadth of characters and the diversity of styles and confess that the wild imagination of others helped me to step a little outside my own comfort zone. The feedback from the tutor and others in the course gave me a newfound confidence and I feel grateful for their support and generous words. The courses really help to discipline me and sharpen my focus. I have enjoyed the course and will really miss reading other people’s stories and feedback. No doubt, it won’t be my last course with the Writers’ Studio.” Tracy, Short Story – Writers’ Gym
“The Unlocking Creativity Course has opened my eyes on so many levels. It’s been the best writing course I’ve undertaken. What an eye opener! What a great interactive experience. This course has given me confidence. I am grateful for that. I now know I can do this!” Krystina, Unlocking Creativity Online
“You’ll love this course, I’ve done it twice now more or less, and I reckon I could do it twice again and still not exhaust all the gold in it.” Angus, Unlocking Creativity Live
“I’ve come away with a structure for a book I’d like to read, my characters have grown, they have depth, I’m deeply attached to them. I’m excited to see what happens next! ” Sally, Second Draft Course
“Many thanks to the Writer’s Studio for the excellent course notes, newsletters and opportunities along the way that provide much needed guidance and inspiration. The feedback from Kelly has been invaluable. I believe my writing has improved so much because she has prompted me to improve technical aspects and to focus more on the internal world of the characters in the story. Because of her input my writing has shifted to a whole other level and I’m excited to keep going.” Jillian, Third Draft Part Two Course
