Writers write, but seldom get It was a dream come true for Four selected writers were given the opportunity by Byron Writers Festival and Create NSW to spend a week in splendid isolation developing their manuscripts. It was a dream come true for Polly Jude, of Ballina, Hayley Lawrence from Port Macquarie, Robert Walker of Banora Point and Nicholas Westhoff from Casuarina.
The manuscripts covered genres ranging from children’s fiction, to young adult and crime. The residential mentorship is a highly sought after opportunity for local writers. With the guidance of critically acclaimed, best-selling author, Marele Day, the writers took their stories to the next level. However, it wasn’t all hard work. There was also a lot of laughter, reading, wine and staying up far too late sharing stories. The writers enjoyed the camaraderie and inspiration that came from sharing quality time with kindred spirits.
The participants will have the opportunity to discuss their projects with publisher, Allen and Unwin at the Byron Writers Festival in August. ‘These are world-class writers, home-grown in the Northern Rivers,’ commented Day, ‘I look forward to seeing them in print.’
For four decades The Echo has printed the stories some people loved, some people hated, and some pretended not to read. If you want us to keep telling the truth, the real truth, not the sugar-coated version. We’ll need your support to keep the presses rolling. 
