Yesterday I made my way through the city to the FRESH INK speed dating showcase held at Griffin Theatre (the undesputed home of Australian writing) as an initiative of ATYP. And this was a pretty awesome day for these emerging writers with many industry folk out and about- Michael Gow the patron was there, as were several of the mentors and a few literary managers.

I was there to see some more of Jasper Marlow’s ZETLAND , that showcased last week at OFF THE SHELF, and to meet Maxine Mellor who was a part of BRAND SPANKING NEW but whom I have never met face to face… and of course there were plenty of fun, familiar faces- Jennifer Williams, Brynn Loosemoore, Mark Pritchard and Dasheill Hannoush.

Something that can’t be said enough- practice is the key. Write more! Write more! Write more! Well done to all those who put pen to paper- and handed it over to some mentors. Who dared to have their words read, their ideas speak, what they hold true to be aired! Well done to all those who said on a Sunday afternoon that New Australian writing by young people is worth the time and the effort!

UPCOMING OPPORTUNITY -APPLICATIONS CLOSE 4TH DEC
In Nov 2010, 15 promising young writers from across Australia will join our Fresh Ink writers for a week-long orgy of ideas, master classes, collaborative experimentation and sharing of stories. Three top Australian writing tutors will inspire the mayhem.
Live-in residencies bring writers together for intense focus and rigorous exploration of their craft. While building skills, participants exchange ideas, develop networks and find inspiration away from the distractions of their lives.
Held at Bundanon, NSW, a stunning property bequeathed to Australian artists by Arthur and Yvonne Boyd and a Mecca for inspiring creativity.
Interested in applying?
ATYP are now accepting applications from emerging Sydney-based writers aged 18-26. Download an info pack and application form from the ATYP website. Applications close December 4, 2009.
http://www.atyp.com.au/index.php/fresh-ink