A GROUP of aspiring and established writers are returning to the Hyperdome library at 10 am on 8 May.
Convened by author Barry O’Farrell, the group offers new and seasoned writers a place to share their work, receive constructive feedback, and connect with a supportive community.
He said the group followed a structured, yet relaxed format designed to inspire and encourage writers at all levels.
“We start each session with good news,” Mr O’Farrell said.
“We celebrate any member who has been published or had success in a competition. Then we move on to competitions and opportunities, where I share submission calls from publishers around the world.”
From there, members have the chance to share their own writing.
Each participant brings copies of their latest work, reads it aloud, and receives feedback from fellow members.
“All feedback is constructive because we’re here to help each other grow as writers,” Mr O’Farrell said.
“Unlike some other groups I’ve been a part of, we don’t get bogged down in technical grammar debates. Instead, we focus on storytelling and helping each other improve.”
The group ends each session on a light-hearted note with a game called ‘Dingbats,’ a puzzle-based activity that adds an element of fun to the gathering.
While the group remains relatively small, it has become a valued space for local writers.
“We deliberately keep it casual,” Mr O’Farrell said.
“Some people come every session, others drop in when they can. There’s no pressure, just a welcoming space where writers can learn from each other.”
Mr O’Farrell started the group after moving to Logan and noticing a gap in the local writing scene.
“The Hyperdome is such a central location, so I approached the library to see if there was already a group,” he said.
“To my surprise, there wasn’t. The library staff were very supportive, and we’ve been meeting here ever since.”
Writing can be an isolating experience, and Mr O’Farrell believes that groups like this are vital for keeping motivation high and improving craft.
“When you’re working alone, it’s easy to lose perspective,” he said.
“Having others read your work and offer feedback can help you see new possibilities for your stories. Sometimes someone will suggest an alternative ending or a new angle, and even if you don’t use it exactly as suggested, it sparks new ideas.”
For those wondering if a writing group is right for them, Mr O’Farrell provides new attendees with two simple handouts: one on how to give constructive feedback and another listing ten reasons to join a writers’ group.
The benefits range from honing one’s craft to simply enjoying the camaraderie of fellow writers.
Contact 0423 138 221.
