Local writers can now apply for a creative residency worth $40,000 to develop their stories and advance their careers.

Applications are open until July 27 for mid-career to established NSW writers, and is run by Create NSW and Byron Writers Festival.

The Write North Writers’ Group creative residency will support a writers’ group of up to four members across seven days from 7-13 September in Byron Bay.

The successful group will receive mentorship from award-winning, established author Charlotte Wood and further development in the individual writers’ projects towards publication. 

The mentorship includes workshops, group discussions and consultation sessions.

Create NSW Executive Director, Chris Keely said “storytelling is integral to the Arts and in shaping our community”.

“We will assist each writer to continue their project after the residency through the delivery of $10,000 in financial support to the successful group, and together with Byron Writers Festival, we look forward to reading their stories in the future when they reach publication,” she said.

Byron Writers Festival Director Edwina Johnson said the residential writers’ program would “nurture the writing careers of emerging voices, both within and from outside our region”.

“Charlotte Wood has a strong connection to our region and has participated in several previous Festivals. Her affinity and talent will offer inestimable opportunity to the program participants. I can’t think of a better mentor,” she said.

“Immersion in a collaborative writing program surrounded by the natural beauty of the Northern Rivers is undoubtedly a special opportunity where creative magic can happen.”

Applications for this Residency will be assessed by Byron Writers Festival and members of the Create NSW Literature Board. 

The total in-kind and cash value of the residency includes funding towards travel to Byron Bay, accommodation and per diems. This residency opportunity comes with $10,000 financial support for the successful group to continue their writing development after the residency.

Applications close 5pm Monday 27 July 2020. Full guidelines and information can be found here.