Fiction Writing Sydney

Romance Writers of Australia - Sydney Meetup

This is our monthly meet-up!! This is a social group for local romance writers to discuss all things craft, publishing, and overall a chance to connect with other writers and refill the creative well. This is a group designated for ROMANCE writers (romantasy, paranormal romance, historical romance, etc.). Please review the group's description for further information. We do not read sections/give feedback during these meetings unlike many other writing groups. Please save some trees and do not print/bring copies of your work during the meet-up. We meet in the NSW State Library Café. We have a general chat and catch-up from 10:00-1:00pm that's casual and friendly where we discuss all things writing (and some not-so-writing-related topics). From 1:00-3:00, there's a write-in in one of the library study rooms downstairs for anyone who wants to get some words down or pages edited.

Romance Writers of Australia - Sydney Meetup

This is our monthly meet-up!! This is a social group for local romance writers to discuss all things craft, publishing, and overall a chance to connect with other writers and refill the creative well. This is a group designated for ROMANCE writers (romantasy, paranormal romance, historical romance, etc.). Please review the group's description for further information. We do not read sections/give feedback during these meetings unlike many other writing groups. Please save some trees and do not print/bring copies of your work during the meet-up. We meet in the NSW State Library Café. We have a general chat and catch-up from 10:00-1:00pm that's casual and friendly where we discuss all things writing (and some not-so-writing-related topics). From 1:00-3:00, there's a write-in in one of the library study rooms downstairs for anyone who wants to get some words down or pages edited.

Shut Up and Write Newtown

**Arrival** 11am, this gives you the time to settle in and chat with other writers **Start of the session** 11.15am the timer will start of no-talking and focused witing time. **Break** 12.00pm a short break where you can discuss your progress, chat or grab a coffee. **Session** **Continues** 12.15pm the timer will start of no-talking and focused witing time. **End of session 1:00pm** you are welcome to stay and keep writing or stay and chat.

Shut up & Write Bondi Junction (Silent Writing Group)

Join us at the Bonnibel cafe in Bondi Junction every Monday at 7pm for an hour of solid writing. Whether you’re making the finishing touches to your manuscript or staring at a blank first page, this is the place to get some words down. Don’t worry, no one will ask you to share your work. There are no critiques or prompts, no unsolicited advice and definitely no reading aloud to a room of people. Just the chance to meet fellow writers and get some work done in a friendly environment. Writing can be a solitary hobby. Everyone feels like they’re writing a bestseller on Monday and a nonsensical fiasco on Friday. Come and hang out with fellow writers who understand the highs, the lows and the absolute slog of act 2. The structure: • 7pm: Arrive, settle in, chat to those around you • 7:15: Write in silence for an hour • 8:15: Stop writing, chat about how the session went, mark down your word count etc… • 8:30: The session ends but feel free to stick around and chat more if you like 😊 The cafe stays open till 10. Don’t worry if you’re not writing a novel. We've had people writing short stories, screenplays, blog posts, poems, jokes, academic papers and more besides! Our writers come from all over: Bondi, Randwick, Paddington, Woollahra, the city and further afield. Bonnibel is a short walk from Bondi Junction station, so wherever you're coming from, it's an easy trip. Look out for our sign on the table when you get here. I made it myself. So if any of this appeals to you, hit that attending button, shut up, and write!

Advanced Writers' Group

Our in-person sessions, following the IWWG session.

Advanced Writers' Group (In-person)

Our online session, following the IWWG session.

Maria Linwood in Conversation & Workshop

**CHATSWOOD LIBRARY SPECIAL DOUBLE FEATURE** Instead of Focus & Write this month we have a special treat. Maria Linwood will feature in two events: an 'in conversation' about her latest book (the second of a duology) and a presentation-style workshop on how she expanded her world and its narrative arc, starting with a short story that became a novel and then a duology. Remember to RSVP through the library for one or both sessions. * [RSVP for Maria Linwood in conversation](https://libraries.willoughby.nsw.gov.au/Eventbrite/Maria-Linwood-in-conversation-2003689898424) * [RSVP for Expanding Worlds workshop](https://libraries.willoughby.nsw.gov.au/Eventbrite/Expanding-worlds-with-Maria-Linwood-2003694130081) **6-7pm: Maria Linwood in Conversation with Adeline Teoh** ***[RSVP for Maria Linwood in Conversation](https://libraries.willoughby.nsw.gov.au/Eventbrite/Maria-Linwood-in-conversation-2003689898424)*** Join Maria Linwood in conversation with Adeline Teoh as they explore Maria’s latest epic fantasy novel, *Mistress of Blood and Shadow*. Return to the dark world of Sàgilorc, where a creeping Gloom, long-buried secrets and dangerous legacies threaten everything. Follow Tábala and her allies on a perilous quest where every step comes at a cost and not everyone may return. ***[RSVP through the library](https://libraries.willoughby.nsw.gov.au/Eventbrite/Maria-Linwood-in-conversation-2003689898424)*** **About Maria Linwood** Dr Maria Linwood is originally from Hamburg. She has published one novel and two short stories in German. Since she moved to Australia in 2022, she has been writing epic fantasy in English. Maria enjoys being creative and is working on her skills with a paintbrush. Being outside – preferably in a mystic forest – is one of her favourite things. Maria loves being active on her bike or running. Most of all, she enjoys shared adventures with her brumby Nico (which she started and trained herself). She also holds a PhD in literature. **About Adeline Teoh** Adeline Teoh is the co-founder of Sydney Speculative Scribes, a local writing community that meets monthly at the library for writing, networking and creative connection. ***[RSVP for Maria Linwood in Conversation](https://libraries.willoughby.nsw.gov.au/Eventbrite/Maria-Linwood-in-conversation-2003689898424)*** **7.30-8.30pm: Expanding Worlds with Maria Linwood** ***[RSVP for Expanding Worlds workshop](https://libraries.willoughby.nsw.gov.au/Eventbrite/Expanding-worlds-with-Maria-Linwood-2003694130081)*** Learn how to grow a short story into a larger world and longer narrative while keeping characters, story arcs and tone consistent. Author of the *Mistress of the Ritual* duology, Maria Linwood will present on how to use threads from a story to seed an expansive world and a longer narrative. For her duology, Linwood started with a short story, then wrote a novel and then another. In this session, learn how to write and edit across different lengths while maintaining story arcs and tone, with tips on how to keep track of worldbuilding and character features. ***[RSVP for Expanding Worlds workshop](https://libraries.willoughby.nsw.gov.au/Eventbrite/Expanding-worlds-with-Maria-Linwood-2003694130081)*** Do note a 'yes' RSVP on Meetup does not confirm your place, please RSVP through the library for one or both sessions. * [RSVP for Maria Linwood in Conversation](https://libraries.willoughby.nsw.gov.au/Eventbrite/Maria-Linwood-in-conversation-2003689898424) * [RSVP for Expanding Worlds workshop](https://libraries.willoughby.nsw.gov.au/Eventbrite/Expanding-worlds-with-Maria-Linwood-2003694130081) \*\*\* These sessions are in the **Creator Space**, straight down the main aisle from the front desk, though the sign may be obscured by books. If you are unable to locate the Creator Space, ask the staff at the front desk for its location; they are expecting us. **[How to get there](https://libraries.willoughby.nsw.gov.au/Locations-and-Hours/Chatswood-Library)** **Public transport**: Chatswood Library is located in The Concourse, 350m from major Chatswood transportation hubs, including Chatswood train station and Chatswood bus interchange. **Parking**: Parking is available at The Concourse car park accessible on Ferguson Lane via Archer St ONLY. Parking rates can be found [here](https://www.theconcourse.com.au/visit/parking/). The library has lift access from The Concourse car park and from The Concourse, ground and upper levels. Parking is also available at Chatswood Chase adjacent to The Concourse on the corner of Archer St and Victoria Ave. The first 3 hours parking are free. **Cycle**: Bicycle parking is available at library entrance. **Accessibility** For participants requiring stair-free access, this is available through the Ferguson Lane entrance through the parking garage. Ride shares or taxis should be directed to drop off at that location. If further assistance is needed please let the Meetup coordinators know in advance and we will do our best to assist. Please be advised that access from Victoria Ave does consist of a significant flight of steps up into the Concourse area.

How Fictional Worlds Affect Our Worldview

Join us for an evening of intellectual exploration as we discuss a current topic in Australia. We will dive into how stories shape our minds, exploring Vinay Kolhatkar's insights from The Savvy Street on why human beings are genetically wired for story. We will examine how fictional narratives serve as an ancient virtual reality technology—projecting us into simulations of life's biggest dilemmas—and why Ayn Rand emphasized that art's primary value is giving us the experience of living in a world where things are as they ought to be. Join us as we discuss how narrative structures, emotional engagement, and classical storytelling influence our deepest beliefs and worldview. **Evening Schedule** 6:00 PM: Doors Open & Welcome 7:00 PM: Speaker session & Q&A 8:30 PM: Networking & Refreshments **Who Should Attend?** Anyone interested in philosophy, individual rights, and the moral foundations of capitalism. Whether you are well-versed in Ayn Rand content or simply curious about the role of reason and literature in society, we welcome your presence and your questions. RSVP: Please click "Going" to help us manage capacity. Cost: Free, but please support the venue by purchasing a drink or food. Location: Shakespeare Hotel. By attending this event, you consent to photography and videography for use in Australian Centre for Objectivism promotional materials. If you prefer not to be photographed, please let the host know.

THE KING WHO WAS A KING

THE KING WHO WAS A KING From the novel by H.G. Wells Adapted and Directed by Ayah Tayeh “Our hero must be a man without frustrations. He is to be yourself and myself as we would like to be, simplified, clear in mind, unencumbered and going directly to his objective.” – H.G. Wells The King and The Prince are dead. A bomb on the prince’s wedding day has destroyed any chance for peace and now two countries are on the brink of war. Hungry for bloodshed, the next in line is eager to take the throne. Can the world take another resource war? It’s up to Paul Zelinka, the unsuspecting son of an exiled prince, to go home, reclaim the throne, and bring peace to the region. H.G. Wells released The King Who Was a King in 1929 to no acclaim, but he was convinced that he had written the story that would end war forever. Now, we’re going to stage it. Please purchase your own tickets via the the link below & only then RSVP ATTEND https://belvoir.com.au/productions/the-king-who-was-a-king/ This is part of the 25A season and will be performed in the downstairs theatre. The show starts at 7.45 pm so I will meet you about half an hour before. Approx 100 mins no interval The membership fee is available via the link below. Discounts and events are for paid members only, denoted with SUPPORTER 26 titles. https://www.meetup.com/theatretimesydney/events/312570533/ Any comments or questions please leave a message below or if on the day of the event text me on 0498826506 Ta Maggy

A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens

Meeting at the usual place, upstairs at The Shakespeare Hotel, 200 Devonshire Street, Surry Hills, Sydney, Thursday 3 Dec, at 7.00pm, we will be discussing *A Christmas Carol*, by Charles Dickens. Published in 1843, it recounts the story of Ebenezer Scrooge, an elderly miser who is visited by the ghosts of Christmas Past, Christmas Present and Christmas Yet-to-Come. In the process, Scrooge is transformed into a kinder, gentler man. It is high on the list of books that people think they have read, but haven't. This fun 150-page novel was written at a time when the English-speaking world was re-imagining the holiday season. At a time when Queen Victoria's husband, Prince Albert, played a major role in popularising what now seem 'ancient' traditions, such as the Christmas Tree and the eating of gingerbread at that special time of year. For those wanting extra reading, there is also the non-fiction work *The man who invented Christmas : how Charles Dickens's A Christmas carol rescued his career and revived our holiday spirits* by Les Standiford. Available through the local library system. There is also a small industry of movies, animations and commentaries. For those wanting even more of a reading fix, there are multiple academic commentaries and re-tellings: feminist, gay, black, Jewish, science fiction, steampunk, horror-zombie, coming-of-age, literary, philosophical and Marxist. You can also check out the NSW Dickens' Society at https://dickenssydney.com.au Hard copies of the book are available from local libraries and from amazon, and soft copies from [https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/46](https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/46) There will be about 30 of us in a semi-private room, upstairs, conducive to discussion. We will discuss the book as a 'big group' for about 40 mins, before breaking up into informal small groups to further discuss the book or anything else. We are a friendly lot and newcomers are welcome. Contact Dale on [dalemills@cantab.net](mailto:dalemills@cantab.net) for more info.

A WEEK ON NORFOLK

November Meetup for the Sydney Nature Journal Club

Come along to our November **meetup for the Sydney Nature Journal Club**. Our last one for 2026. This is a chance to connect, spend some time in nature and journal together. I will offer some guidance to start. After we can share journal pages and ideas. **What to bring:** Bring along sketchbooks/paper and your favourite drawing materials (pens, pencils, watercolour, acrylic, anything you have). I will have extra materials on the day if you want to explore other mediums. \*\*Where:\*\* Royal Botanic Gardens **Cost:** Suggested donation is $10 annual fee, $5 casual fee. (This helps cover Meetup fees). DISCLAIMER.
Please note that Katy as volunteer organiser of activities for Sydney Nature Journal Club is NOT responsible for the health or safety of members (or their guests) and therefore will not accept any liability for accidents or injuries or losses that may occur during Meetup events at any location. By attending a Sydney Nature Journal Club event members acknowledge that you accept ALL of the above. I look forward to seeing you there.