Intensive Retreats @ Olvar Wood Writers Retreat

Olvar Wood

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BEFORE THE RETREAT

A month before the retreat you'll be invited to send in a draft of your work (up to 5,000 words for weekenders, or up to 20,000 words for week-long retreaters).

Your writing will be read by the mentor in preparation for your visit. Your writing will also be sent out to the other retreat participants. You will be asked to read your fellow writers' work in preparation for the peer critique sessions.

DAILY WORKSHOPS

Each day there's a group workshop. These workshops focus on particular aspects of writing and are designed by the mentor in response to reading the work you provided beforehand. Workshops are, however, flexible: please talk to your mentor about what you would like included in each day's session.

PEER CRITIQUE

Most retreats also include a peer critique session, during which you will receive feedback on your work from the other workshop participants, and be given the opportunity to provide feedback on their work.

If you've never done it before, peer critiquing can sound like a terrifying prospect. Nevertheless, hearing what your readers think is always valuable, as is being asked to act as an editor and provide constructive feedback on another writer's work. While we value honesty, we encourage you to be constructive and supportive of your fellow writers.

One-On-One FEEDBACK

During the course of the retreat, you will be invited to participate in feedback sessions with the mentor. The mentor will have read your work prior to the weekend, and prepared some detailed, personal feedback for you. This is your time: you can ask questions, seek feedback or use this time with the mentor to seek whatever advice it is you need.

TIME TO WRITE

Each day at Olvar there is dedicated writing time. During these periods there is no stereo, phone or convivial chatter allowed. You may, of course, use your headset if you bring one, or quietly make yourself a cup of tea to take back to your room. While you do not have to write, we strongly encourage you to use this time for planning, reading, thinking and reflecting on your writing and your writing process.

BOOKINGS

To book your place, simply email us at admin@olvarwood.com.au , call (07) 5445 9222 or use the booking buttons at left.

Non-residential booking enquiries are welcome by phone or email.

RATES

Intensive retreats include a manuscript assessment, daily writing workshops and feedback sessions, accommodation, breakfast provisions, lunches, and two dinners. We also provide a fully-equipped kitchen and a larder stocked with basics.

Week-long intensive: $1600.00
Weekend intensive $600.00

Friends of Olvar receive a 15% discount

QWC, ACTWC and NRWC members receive a 10% discount.

A non-residential option is also available at a a cost of $250.00 for weekends/$600.00 for week-long retreats. This includes tuition, readings, feedback and lunches. To book a non-residential place, please contact us by email: admin@olvarwood.com.au

FUNDING

Although Olvar Wood Writers Retreat does not supply or receive funding itself, you can apply for funding to support your visit to Olvar Wood through the state-based arts funding body. If you are a postgraduate student at a university, you can apply to use your discretionary funds to attend a retreat or course. We are happy to provide letters of support or other documentation for your application upon request.

Residents of Olvar Wood

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Staying at Olvar