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Byron Shire
June 28, 2026

Locals writers thrive at residential mentorship in Bangalow

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L to R: Jacqui Walsh, and Alison Thompson with mentor Sarah Armstrong, Gabrielle Le Brun and Sylvia Wilczynski. Photo Jeff Dawson

A five-day residential mentorship in Bangalow has given four local writers the chance to hone their craft with mentor, and acclaimed novelist, Sarah Armstrong.

They stayed at the at the historic The Bank House as part of the 24th prestigious Byron Writers Festival Residential Mentorship. ‘This week-long immersion has been a true gift,’ said performer and event co-ordinator, Gabby Le Brun from Bangalow.

Gabby was joined by Byron local documentary and drama producer, Sylvia Wilczynski. Sylvia’s novel The Bullet is set between a remote valley in the Northern Rivers and WW2 Poland, and is inspired by her family history, with elements of horror and the supernatural. Jacqueline Walsh, an acupuncturist from South Golden Beach, worked on her historical fiction Mute, set in 1800s Norway; while Alison Thompson, a poet and veterinarian from Lismore worked on her short fiction collection Dingo & Other Stories.

‘The discussions, insights and feedback from Sarah and my fellow residents has reinvigorated my writing and given me renewed confidence in completing my project,’ said Alison.



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