One of the questions that is most frequently asked of us at the South Coast Writers Centre is: “I’ve written a novel, how do I get it published?” To answer it, we’ve put together a full weekend on the topic of publishing, with perspectives on what’s happening in the Australian publishing world from authors, editors, literary curators and publishers.
The first day of our The Business of Publishing weekend is a symposium with panel discussions on the state of play in publishing. We start by looking at the place of the small press in publishing. What can they offer authors? Why would you want to and how can you create your own publications? The Anthologies & the Small Press with a panel features Winnie Dunn, Editor with Sweatshop; Lore White, Editor in Chief of Baby Teeth Journal; and Sarah Nicholson, Editor of Heroines Anthology.
Next, Olivia Lanchester, CEO of Australian Society of Authors; and local authors Pamela Cook and Alan Baxter, discuss the current publishing environment for writers who want to get books published. What are the possibilities and the pitfalls of commercial publishing? What other legitimate publishing models are possible?
Finally, we hear from the publishers. Tom Langshaw, Editor from Pantera Press; Xavier Hennekinne, Publisher from Gazebo Books; and Laura Brading, from WellRead, will discuss what’s going on in Australian publishing. Are there differences between the Australian and overseas markets? What are publishers looking for and what are the opportunities for authors?
On Sunday, we have an all-day intensive for authors who are ready to hone their pitching skills. Former publisher, agent and advisor to ACT Writers’ Centre’s highly regarded HARDCOPY program, Mary Cunnane will demystify the publishing process for writers as it operates in Australia and internationally. How are books ‘signed’ up? What will a publisher do for an author? Do you really need an agent? What’s the best way to develop an effective book proposal? Drawing on her extensive experience as a publisher and a literary agent in the US and Australia, Mary will help participants navigate their way to representation and/or publication.
So, if you want to get the industry lowdown on what’s happening in Australian publishing, come along to our The Business of Publishing weekend at Coledale Hall over the weekend of 22nd/23rd May.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Sarah Nicholson is the Director of the South Coast Writers Centre, creative director of The Heroines Festival and editor of the Heroines Anthology.
