Regional Writers Roadshow comes to Ballarat

AN event coming to Ballarat this month aims to help regional writers achieve their dream of getting published.

Organised by Berringa’s own Rural Publishing Company, The Regional Writers Roadshow is free to attend and is taking place at the Ballarat Library on Saturday 23 August.

It was added after the venue’s original roadshow workshop taking place on 13 September quickly booked out.

The sessions are being led by founders of The Rural Publishing Company, Sarah Walkerden and Toby Billing.

“Whether you’re dreaming of a children’s book, memoir, poetry collection, novel or business-building book, this workshop will show you how to turn your idea into a professionally published book that really makes an impact,” Walkerden said.

“The main aim is to inspire and educate regional authors to write and publish their books. We’re hoping to demystify the world of publishing so regional authors can make well-informed choices and maximise their success.”

Walkerden said those who attend will learn how to shape their idea into a book with real purpose and value, the pros and cons of self-publishing, supported self-publishing and traditional publishing, and how to avoid costly publishing mistakes and predatory “vanity publishers”.

The workshop will also take its participants through simple structures for fiction, nonfiction and children’s books, basics of editing, design and distribution, and how to market their book locally, online and for business-owners.

Workshop participants will also get practical worksheets and templates, real-world advice tailored to regional writers, Q&A time, the chance to connect with other local authors and creatives, and a free writing guide.

Walkerden said the roadshow workshop is ideal for aspiring writers of fiction and non-fiction, poets and storytellers, children’s book creators, rural business owners wanting a “credibility book” and also first-time authors and those who’ve “tried before but got stuck”.

“Participants don’t need to have a completed manuscript or be an expert writer,” she said.

“They just need an idea and a willingness to explore the possibilities.”

The event will take place in Meeting Room 4 of the Ballarat Library on Saturday 23 August from 9.30am to 1pm.

Tickets are free but registrations are required and can be made through eventbrite.com.au.