Joining the Victorian writers centre

Contributed by Stephen Cameron

Would you like the secret to writing success? The magic potion? The cure-all? The Dr. Marvello Snake Oil Elixir for Writers? Sorry, but it doesn't exist. As any successful writer knows writing takes work, and lots of it. But that’s not to say guideposts and short cuts aren't available.

The Victorian Writers’ Centre, based in beautiful rooms in Swanston Street, is a wonderful resource for writers of all levels and abilities. For an extremely reasonable membership fee, writers have access to a wide range of services and resources at the Centre, including:

• 9 issues of Victorian Writer magazine a year, plus the weekly e-bulletin
• Access to information related to writing in Victoria
• Professional manuscript assessment at discounted rates
• Discounted workshops, panel discussions and seminars
• Information on opportunities, residencies, competitions
• Access to the reference library
• Writing groups and networking
• Volunteering at the Centre

About a year ago I suffered a period of self doubt. I questioned whether I was on the right path to achieve my goals, whether my writing was ‘good enough’ for publication and even whether my goals were attainable. I happened upon the VWC website, and immediately signed up for a workshop that weekend. The discounted member’s price to the event more than covered the cost of VWC membership. The volunteers (yes, they are a not-for-profit organisation) and staff at the Centre were friendly and helpful. The sessions, led by a best-selling author, not only confirmed I could write but showed me what I needed to do to improve. I came home more enthusiastic and determined than ever before.

Whether fiction or non-fiction, prose or poetry, genre or non-genre, both aspiring and established writers will find something to benefit at the VWC.

Victorian Writers' Centre
37 Swanston St
Melbourne 3000
Tel: 03 9654 9068
Fax: 03 9654 4751
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 10am-5pm