Right person at the right time… local author Lisa Walker brings years of experience to her new role at the Byron Writers’ Centre
The Northern Rivers Writers’ Centre has appointed local author Lisa Walker to the role of writer development manager at the centre. Lisa will be putting together a program of events including the workshops and seminars, the annual residential mentorship and author visits, as well as responding to member queries and all matters pertaining to the writing process.
Lisa is the author of two novels with her most recent, Sex, Lies and Bonsai, hitting the shelves soon. She is also an award-winning short-story writer and her radio play Baddest Backpackers aired on ABC Radio National in 2008. Lisa has lived in the northern rivers since 1999 and has worked in a multitude of jobs, including as a wilderness guide, tertiary lecturer and illustrator of crab larvae.
‘I am no stranger to the long and winding road to publication and I’m here to provide advice and assistance to aspiring writers as well as professional development for established writers,’ Lisa said.
‘The Northern Rivers Writers’ Centre has been a great support to me over many years and I’m looking forward to providing that support to others. I have taken part in many workshops, participated in the Residential Mentorship Program and pitched to publishers at the Byron Bay Writers’ Festival.’
‘I believe that the right person at the right time can make a huge difference to your writing. The Writers’ Centre offers a great program of events for both beginning and more established writers throughout the year and mentorships for those who want a more personal approach.
‘I encourage writers who need advice on what step to take next with their writing to get in touch. The upcoming Residential Mentorship Program is a great opportunity to take your writing to the next level by working intensively with a sensitive and proven mentor in Marele Day.’
Applications to the Mentorship Program close on March 28.
Writers’ Centre director Jeni Caffin said that the appointment was crucial in focusing on the core mission of the Centre.
‘It’s great news! This is the first time we have had a published writer in this central role. Not only published but a writer who has experienced every facet of the resources and services offered to emerging writers and who has spread her wings and flown on to the bestseller lists as a result. Our brilliant, busy, northern rivers writing community will reap the benefits with every consultation with Lisa.’
Budding writers and keen readers can meet former NRWC Mentorship participants Jesse Blackadder, Lisa Walker, Jessie Cole, Susanna Freymark and Sarah Armstrong in conversation at the Byron Bay Library, Monday March 4, 5.30pm.
For bookings phone the library on 6685 8540.
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