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Stef Gemmill - So You Want to Get Published?

Local Word Writers Festival

This writers workshop provides a clear roadmap for what comes after "The End," covering everything from self-editing to submitting to the right publishers or agents.

Finishing a manuscript or series of shorter works is a monumental achievement, but for many authors, getting their work submission ready is an even bigger one.

This workshop is specifically designed for writers who have completed a series of poems, short stories or manuscript but feel overwhelmed by the transition from "finished" to "published".

To ensure their work is ready for industry eyes, the session begins with techniques for deep self-editing and obtaining objective feedback from writing critique group partners or qualified editors. Through author Stef Gemmill's regular contact with Australian publishers and industry professionals via her role at the Sketch and Scribe Festival, participants will learn how to navigate the current publishing landscape, including the differences between seeking a literary agent and submitting directly to smaller publishers that accept unsolicited work.

Participants will gain hands-on practice in crafting a professional submission package —including a compelling query/cover letter with a clear "hook," a comprehensive synopsis that includes both the narrative and character arc, and polished opening chapters. Participants will leave with the tools to present their writing professionally and avoid the common pitfalls that lead to immediate rejection.

This workshop is available for up to 16 people aged 18+ and aimed at emerging authors who have written their work and are ready to publish, of all skill levels. Suitable for all publishable writing forms and genres. Workshop length is 5.5 hour workshop plus 1 hour of breaks over the day. Please note we do not provide catering other than tea, coffee and water throughout the day and participants are encouraged to bring their own lunch or visit Public Café on Ground Floor of the Library.

Tickets: $80 or $40 for concession holders

Award-winning author Stef Gemmill nurtures emerging literary talent in her role as the program director of the local Sketch and Scribe Festival for writers and illustrators of children's literature. Her works reflect her personal experiences of ‘belonging’ and ‘the meaning of home’ after spending time in a foster home in her teenage years. Her books include A Home for Luna, winner of the 2020 Rubery Book Award, Toy Mountain and latest release, The Ghost Horse of Snowy River are recognised for their unique ways they explore themes such as homelessness, disability and environmental challenges. Stef has 20+ years of experience as a technical writer, teacher and journalist as well as strong publishing industry knowledge through her role as a literature festival director.
Stef lives on the Surf Coast of Victoria, Australia with her family and sleepy cat, Luna, the star of her award-winning book.

www.stefgemmill.com
www.sketchandscribefest.com

To discover more of our fabulous local writers, visit our Local Authors Fair from 12pm-3pm on Saturday 29 August at Geelong Library & Heritage Centre - free entry and refreshments provided

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