Lilydale Lakeside Writers Group
A guest article by Leanne Margaret
Christine’s Note: Many thanks to local author Leanne Margaret, of Croydon, for sharing her experiences and insights of hosting the Lilydale Lakeside Writers Group. Leanne also teaches a Thursday writing class at the Coonara Community House in Upper Ferntree Gully.
Back in 2019, Lilydale Library called for expressions of interest from writing enthusiasts who would like to meet and form a new group. I had recently self-published my second book; but, like many writers, the path was as lonely as it was arduous. So this sounded like an ideal way to meet like-minded creators.
Around thirteen writers attended the first meeting, and I volunteered to maintain a spread-sheet of participants and send them a monthly reminder. At first it was just an admin role, and I referred to myself as a facilitator. But I have gradually stepped up into the role, and participants have enjoyed my writing prompts and inspiration.
The first couple of years were challenging, with work commitments and Covid restrictions.
Eventually we found our rhythm, and the group has been thriving ever since.
Initially it was a Monday group. As time went on, I felt that a Friday afternoon group would be a great way to start the weekend – and so it was.
On the fourth Friday of each month, we meet at the library at 3:30pm; sometimes going out for a drink or a walk around Lilydale lake – which is just next door. Some writers come in early with their laptops to grab some precious writing time before group.
The group has become one of the highlights of our month. Not everyone is writing actively all the time, coming just to listen, providing feedback and encouragement.
Some writers perform their poetry, while others read us a bit at a time of their current book manuscripts.
We have watched some projects evolve from their infancy into completed works and self-published books. We have also watched each other’s performance skills and confidence grow.
Some writers show up every single month, while others drift in and out sporadically – like our writing muses! Most months we have between six and thirteen in attendance. Library facilities include disabled access, computers, soft chairs and lovely staff who set up every month.
Lilydale Lakeside Writers Group is made up of writers of all levels: recreational writers, poets, authors, content writers, writing teachers and even a journalist. We are light on criticism, preferring a non-judgmental atmosphere that is welcoming to new writers.
I want to create a safe space for beginners, as well as an interesting space for emerging and established writers. We care more about community than quantity or even quality.
There’s laughter, tears, understanding and support.
Interested writers can find us in the What’s On guide, produced seasonally by Your Library.
We welcome new members and you can book your place in the group via the Your Library website.
Let’s write!
