The Writing Retreat
Writing retreats can range from hard core writing workouts for you and your manuscript to ultimate indulgences offering the freedom to write. Some feature celebrity authors giving advice and feedback, while others uncover working writers with valuable advice to incorporate into your own writing practice. So, what type of writing retreat suits you?
In the latest WQ magazine, editor and writer Gail Tagarro details her experience at a Spanish writing retreat held in 400-year-old guest house, Casa Ana, in the village of Ferreirola. As an editor she found herself working on other people’s books every day. Travelling halfway around the world for a retreat was one way to force her to work on her own manuscript. Closer to home, author Christine Wells is set to inspire emerging writers. Held as part of the Western Downs Words Out West Readers and Writers Fest, this is a one-day retreat at the Bunya Mountains where writers learn all they need to know about plot structure, character arcs and everything else to create better, more marketable stories.
A retreat like this is a great way to start. As a non-residential retreat there’s less pressure on participants, but with the Writers Festival happening in conjunction the option to stay, make connections and enjoy the literary vibe is appealing. This one offers a great selection of visiting authors from Kurt Fearnley to John Marsden, Isobelle Carmody, Fleur McDonald and more. You can even join the glamour of the Words Out West gala dinner with Kurt Fearnley as guest speaker. Find all the details here.
Writing retreats seek out the best places in Queensland for you to relax, tune out of your day to day life, and discover places you’ve always wanted to visit. The Rainforest Writing Retreat is held in the beautiful Lamington National Park. Relax and Write Retreats combine yoga and writing under the guidance of Edwina Shaw. Her next retreat is in Highfields, north of Toowoomba, this March. While Sarah Williams is set to run a retreat in beautiful Maleny.
For advanced writers, places like Varuna House in the Blue Mountains offer a range of prestigious Fellowships and the only national residency in Australia dedicated to literature. Whatever stage you are at, there is no doubt that taking time away from daily life to focus on your writing offers a privileged time to treasure.