Bootcampers pay it forward

For the last few years now, RWA has recognised the need for an ‘alternative’ to the annual conference; something online for those not able to attend the capital city event. (Yep, we get to participate any  here and any way we can.)

Coordinated by volunteers, the 2010 Clayton’s Conference, with Sandie Hudson at the helm (again),was an all-Bootcamp affair with Suzanne Hamilton and me - Jenn J McLeod - signing on to help out over the three-days and nights. All three agree it was a great way to pay forward to other writers after what RWA Bootcamp has done for them.

With guests from both Australia and overseas speaking on a variety of topics, it was a truly global experience for the thirty-five registered attendees - many of them new to online events.

From an agenda jam-packed with everything writerly, as well as our own awards night (requiring dress-up PJs) and conference goodie bags, the feedback from this year’s event clearly shows Claytons can be every bit as rewarding and fun as ‘the other conference.’ (No longer is it to be referred to as ‘the real conference’. (Our attendees even came up with their own slogan - “Clayton’s Conference - Keeping it Real”.)

With a chock-a-block agenda that included six tough writing challenges over the three days, organisers were amazed at the level and quality of participation.

We got to write - a lot - both seriously and just for fun with Fracture Fairytales and Ludicrous Plots contests, made our own book trailers, designed book covers, grilled our guest speakers, shared ideas AND we were invited to pitch to e-publisher Noble Romance, with several authors asked to provide full manuscripts and contracts offered.

This post is a Clayton's wrap-up (the wrap-up you have when it's not really wrapped up!) because the camaraderie continues with the 2010 Clayton’s attendees establishing their own online networking group. So Claytons 2010 will live on, just as our belief in our dreams will live on.

Special thanks to the Executive Committee of Romance Writers of Australia for recognising the need for an online conference experience for its member and for supporting the Clayton's Conference concept and growth.

If you would like more information about the 2010 RWA Clayton’s Conference, you can find out more on theRWA website or RWA Blog (including a link to our final report listing all our guest speakers, sponsors, our winners, attendee feedback and our 2010 agenda.)

Watch out next year for the 2011 extravaganza and you'll never feel lonely at conference time again.

Competition Season

It's that time of year again when RWA's competitions open for another year.

To get the ball rolling are the High 5 (category) and STALI (single title and loving it). I've entered High 5 and I know other Bootcampers are considering the season ahead and getting their entries in.

Bootcamp entries did us proud last year, and I'm sure this year will see wonderful things from Bootcamp 109ers.

Good luck to all.

Critique Partners

I think everyone needs a critique partner, even non-writers. Okay, those who don't know the thrill of filling blank pages with words might call them BFFs, but it means the same.

Someone you trust with a treasured possession.
Someone who knows your deep secrets, hopes and fears.
Someone who will be there for you at your most vulnerable or when floating high.

A critique partner (CP) is invaluable in improving your writing skills. Whether it be craft issues, plot problems or plain grammar your CP is emotionally removed from your story, they're a second set of eyes.

But like any relationship it's a two way street. Support needs to go both ways. you need to express clearly to your CP your expectations, what you would like them to do for you when reading your work and understand you both have deadlines, family and a life beyond writing. As for the CP, you need to be kind, highlight the positive, be constructive (not just critical), be helpful and reliable.

If you don't have one, get one - I'd hate to be travelling this journey alone.

Romance Writers of Australia have a critique partner scheme. Visit http://www.romanceaustralia.com/members/critpartners.asp (you need to be an RWA member)

Stay in touch with RWA

For those of you who aren't aware, RWA now have their own blog and twitter.

Check out the blog at: http://romanceaustralia.wordpress.com/

And the tweets at: http://twitter.com/RWAus

Our Very Own Bootcamp Conference Presenter....

There are less then 10 weeks to go until the highlight of the RWAustralia calender is here, the 2009 conference.

3 days, 240 Romance Writers - I can only imagine what it is going to be like. And I have to say I can't wait!

One brave Bootcamper put her hand up to present at the conference, Fiona Gregory (who masquerades as a pharmacist during the day).

Fiona is running the workshop Peddling Poisons & Dealing Drugs:

Explore the fascinating world of drugs and poisons with a practicing pharmacist. Learn about the history of drugs and experience real life examples of pharmaceutical misadventure suited to the pages of a novel. Discover the best resources.

Wishing you the best on the day Fi

Bootcamp 109ers Rock!

After Elizabeth's success (see previous post) I thought I should put together a compilation of our triumphs so far…

Monique Wood & Fiona Gregory – Little Gems Finalists

Both The Boss’s Wife (Mon) and A Happy New Year (Fi) are to appear in RWA Little Gem Anthology – 2009 Turquoise.

Order your copy here: http://www.romanceaustralia.com/littlegems.html


Sandie Hudson – Challenge Collection Finalist

My Merry Maid is an erotic short story to be published by Kiwi Writers (http://kiwiwriters.org/) as an ebook and print book in July 2009.


Jenn McLeod – Partial Request

Having submitted a synopsis to wewriteromance.com for one of her short stories, Jenn was asked to submit a partial for further consideration. After due deliberation and discussion Jenn decided not to pursue this offer further.


A cyber-toast to these ladies.

Who knows what else 2009 might bring…

Dividing into groups...

The 109 Bootcampers are currently in the process of dividing into mentoring groups based on what we write, so it's a tad quiet here on the Western Front.

Four members are now in a Category group (known at the BootCats *miaow*), four members are in a Single Title group (BootSTars???), and the last two members have been 'adopted' by the 101 Bootcampers (see bootcampers101.blogspot.com).

We're all very excited about what's in stall for us, and will keep you posted on any interesting news. Speaking of news, congrats goes out to Anita/Ellanora Joy for coming 10th in the RWA's First Kiss competition. Yay, Anita!!

Lastly, a very special thanks goes out to the Bootcamp coordinators for taking the time and making the effort to extend our Bootcamp experience! You're all gems, ladies! We really appreciate everything you've done for us *wink*.