Resources
Writing can be a lonely space, just you and the paper or keyboard. But there are lots of ways to link with other writers and groups. While you have to write on your own, you don’t have to be on your own. There are lots of people doing the same thing and thinking the exact same thing, the same self-doubts and questions. For me, I found that membership in the following made me feel supported and provided opportunities to connect and learn. They each offer a lot more than I have mentioned and each is worth a look.
The Society of Women Writers Victoria
They have monthly meetings via Zoom and in person, writing groups, poetry and writing competitions, book club, open mike, festivals- all sorts of great things writers can get involved with.
Writers Victoria
https://writersvictoria.org.au/
Offer courses, events, clinics, information on upcoming competitions and opportunities plus advice.
Australian Society of Authors (ASA)
Legal advice, advocacy for writers, resources, member’s notice board, support and so much more.
Australian Writers Centre
https://www.writerscentre.com.au/
All sorts of courses relating to writing.
Historical Novel Society of Australasia (HNSA)
It depends on the genre you are writing in, but I find this great. They provide information, have conferences, courses and a podcast.
GV Writers Group
https://www.gvwritersgroup.com/
A local writing group that meets monthly for support and encouragement of all forms of creative writing. Conduct workshops and provide information on upcoming opportunities.
Most areas have writing groups, so it’s worthwhile finding one in your area.
I am a member of each of these and have found them extremely useful, but there are lots of others out there worth looking for.
The number one starting place for anyone commencing research into an Australian relative’s military history is the National Archives of Australia www.naa.gov.au It holds not just military history, but immigration and all sorts of other information. A simple name search will get you going.
Every researcher of Australian Military history needs to become familiar with the Australian War Memorial (AWM) www.awm.gov.au.
The amount of information online is massive.
Another site worth checking out is the Public Records Office Victoria https://prov.vic.gov.au/ It’s the archive of State Government institutions and a treat for finding information on all sorts of things wills, probates, coroner reports, prison records, land and property records and so much more. For genealogists, it’s a must.
Most Australian newspapers have been digitised and are available online at Trove https://trove.nla.gov.au/ well worth a search.