President's Note
Dear members and guests,
GCWA has been off to an inspirational start this year. What a treat to have Bonnie Hancock share her incredible journey with us at our January meeting. Bonnie fluently translated moments from her story into practical tips to help us bring our writing to life.
How are you doing with your writing goals? Are they also coming to life? Why not take a moment to look over your notes from Rochelle Agius’ workshop and review or finish designing the goals you wrote down. You have almost the whole year ahead of you. You can do it!
Our member-only critique groups are a fantastic opportunity to help you work towards your goals. We continually receive feedback of improved writing, motivation to finish pieces and courage to enter competitions.
However, you may also benefit from being in a small group where you can connect with other writers with another focus, e.g. a genre group, a general writing group or a coffee catch-up where you can talk about all things writing. We would love to hear your thoughts! Share your feedback here (or reply email) about specific groups that may be of interest to you or other content that would be useful towards achieving your goals.
I look forward to seeing you at our February meeting as we explore establishing a writing career with guest presenter Ky Garvey and learn about the role of AI in illustration creation.
Remember, you got this!
Rochelle Miller, GCWA President
Create, Inspire, Connect. |
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 | The GCWA meets on the third Saturday of each month. We are at our usual meeting place at the
BURLEIGH WATERS COMMUNITY CENTRE. 111-136 Christine Ave, Burleigh Waters QLD 4220 Click here for the Google Maps location |
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15th FEBRUARY 2025
MEETING ORDER OF EVENTS Members and guests are encouraged to arrive at 11:45 to complete the entry process so we can start on time. If you have flu-like symptoms or feel unwell, please stay at home and get better quickly. -
11:45 Arrive and register -
12:00 News and brief announcements -
12:10 Speaker: Playing to your Strengths to Establish a Writing Career by Ky Garvey -
13:15 Afternoon Tea & Networking Break -
13:45 Workshop: AI Disrupting the Illustration Industry by Sandra Mayer -
14:45 Raffle - 15:00 Close
To book your spot at the meeting and help us with the headcount, please click here. Entry is also available at the door. GCWA members: $5.00
Visitors: $10.00
EFTPOS payment preferred; however, cash is accepted. |
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 | Playing to Your Strengths to Establish a Writing Career
In this presentation, Ky Garvey will discuss her experience as a published picture book author, highlighting the journey to publication. She will also explore how her podcast, Totally Lit, has contributed to and enhanced her career. Additionally, Ky will share insights on how she utilises social media to foster community and maintain connections with both readers and fellow writers. |
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Workshop: AI Disrupting the Illustration Industry
Sandra Mayer will guide us in the use of AI programs in creative industries, specifically focusing on illustrating. The session will provide insights into the tools available for authors and creators, particularly those working with illustrations and design. |
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 | | We love sharing news from our GCWA members to shine the spotlight on new work, awards and publishing wins from local writers. Here's just a taste of the success in and around the Gold Coast writing community in recent weeks.
Sandra Mayer continues to captivate young readers with her latest releases, Hoppy's Lost Eggs and Noises in the Night. These delightful new children's books are a wonderful addition to her growing collection. Be sure to check them all out here. Congrats Sandra!
Dr Sallie Gardner has published her insightful book, Confidage: A Psychological Guide to Transforming Anxiety into Confident Choices While Embracing Healthy Aging. This invaluable guide is designed to help readers feel more confident and authentic, no matter their age. For more details, you can find the book on Amazon. Thanks Sallie! Join Sheridan Holmes (Don't Walk RUN!) and Donna-Leigh Perfect (Perfectly Bullied Perfectly at P.E.A.C.E) for an inspiring afternoon celebrating resilience, strength and hope as these two remarkable authors share their powerful stories and insights.
Saturday, March 1st
12.30 pm - 2.30 pm
Burleigh Waters Community Centre
Congratulations to all our phenomenal members on these remarkable accomplishments! Your dedication and creative talents inspire us all. Well done!
If you have exciting GCWA member news to share, please email our Association Editor at gcwa.editor@gmail.com with all the details.
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 | DANZ Boldly Launches Into Its Second Year!
The ASLA Diversity in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand Children’s Book Award is back for 2025 to celebrate and spotlight even more underrepresented children’s book creators!
www.thedanzchildrensbookaward.com |
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BOOKSHOP
Advertising Member A$50.00 Website Advertising for 1 year (Member)
Advertising Non-Member A$120.00 Website Advertising for 1 year (Non-Member) Email gcwa.websitemanager@gmail.com for details of specifications required |
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 | | Would you like to be a member of the GCWA?
The Gold Coast Writers' Association aims to support and encourage writers of all levels, across all genres. We welcome writers and readers to share their experiences and connect with a wider audience.
Here are some of the benefits of joining the Association: - Gain access to the ‘Members Only’ Facebook page where you can connect with other members and find useful writing resources.
- Promote and sell your books through associated avenues.
- Receive members’ rates at all GCWA special events.
- Network and collaborate with individuals across all levels of writing.
- Benefit from opportunities to meet and socialise with like-minded people in a friendly environment.
| More GCWA membership information here |
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| | |  | | Each month the Gold Coast Libraries offer
brilliant workshops and author talks.
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 | Writers Plus! We've got everything to support your writing journey. Whether you're just starting out or already published, we have something to help take your writing to the next level. Attend one of our monthly Masterclasses, led by an industry expert, to learn and extend your knowledge and skills. Drop into a writing session utilising the Pomodoro Technique at Writing Friday, Writing Saturday or Writing Sunday. Or just use our spaces for free Wi-Fi and creative environments great for your writing projects. Don't forget to check out the latest writing books while you're in there. For more information go to Gold Coast Libraries |
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| Gold Coast Libraries and the Queensland Writers Centre have teamed up to offer Gold Coast writers a space to cultivate their habit of writing and connect with other writers in the community. Following the Pomodoro Technique, Writing Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays are a free, volunteer-led program for local writers at all levels.
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 | | Support your local Independent book store.
GCWA MEMBERS Mention your membership at Big B Books
in Burleigh Heads to receive 10% off books. |
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 | Come and join us on the GCWA Facebook page and members, be sure to join the
Gold Coast Writers’ Association Members group. |
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 | | We'd love your feedback! If you have some tips and suggestions for the committee, please email Rochelle at gcwa.president@gmail.com |
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