Jacky Ayton • Attended Jul 2026



The teacher was knowledgeable and I enjoyed her style teaching. A creative atmosphere, which I always find at all of the bad writing Club workshops. I enjoyed sitting with creative minded people thinking outside the box walking away with my head full of ideas.

Fiona L Scott-Norman • Attended Jul 2026



A warm and valuable workshop. Emilie is an accomplished poet and generous with the attendees.

Susan Menzies • Attended Jul 2026



This class was really inspiring. When I walked into the room, I had felt quite a bit of trepidation. I hadn't written poetry since my school days and although I had liked writing it, I hadn't pursued it. Emily structured the class so we were invited into experimenting, playing with words. Having fun with words. Moving into structure and finding sense of poetry and enjoying the tightness of the prose. Each person was able to contribute their own sense of the work, where they felt comfortable and we were able to develop a perception of how many levels poetry can be viewed at. And we got to write our own Haikus and Sonnets. Such fun! Emily was great - she allowed us to contribute when we wanted to but didn't push anyone where they didn't want to go. The structure of the class meant that by the end, we had written things that I'm sure many of us wouldn't have believed we'd have thought possible. Thank you!

Rina Chia • Attended Jul 2026



A fun evening with like-minded people learning from one of my favourite writers. Poetry is much harder than people think!

Beginners Poetry Workshop review by Rina Chia - Melbourne

Gabrielle Lethlean • Attended Jul 2026



It was a really lovely class, well facilitated and an interesting exploration of words and the play of poetry. Would definitely do something like this class again!

Anastasia Panayiotidis • Attended Jul 2026



I loved Emily’s poetry workshop, Emily guided our group gently, inspired us and got us to be interactive as well as write our own poetry. Stimulating, sensory and fun. Donita of Bad Writers Club, provided tasty nibbles and a glass or two of wine. Highly recommended for lovers of poetry and would be poets.

Beginners Poetry Workshop review by Anastasia Panayiotidis - Melbourne

Sean Fallon • Attended Jul 2026

This was Sean's tenth time doing this class



Always fantastic. Having that time to write uninterupted helped me solve a plot problem that had been driving me mad.

Susan Menzies • Attended Jul 2026



I wrote so much! The writers' energy was palpable - everyone was engaged in this very interior world but also I think we were all spurred on by each other's focus. It was great to sit down and just write, but then have the time to review what we had done in the 1 3/4 hours. Aud was a great facilitator of this so that I learnt more about the process of writing from the other writers in the room. Thank you!

Rachyl Brooks • Attended Jun 2026



The session was a great, dedicated time to beat the procrastination bug and get into some solid writing. It was an inclusive, supportive group and the facilitator was an absolute gem. I’ll definitely be back again in future.

Gaye Rowley • Attended Jun 2026



Great exeience - friendly, accepting, supportive. Started with a couple of prompts to warm us up then time to work on our own projects. Absolutely no judgement. Opportunity, but no pressure, to share. Aud is warm, lively, and a skilful, respectful coordinator. Highly recommend this gathering

Sondre Callec • Attended May 2026



First time to the group, which was full of cool and clever people. Aud, gave one writing prompt that I liked but wasn’t sure I would use it. Then a couple of pages later it worked perfectly and paced with the storm I was writing about. Aud our facilitator, was cool, great sense of humour, relaxed but with energy, gave direction and prompts if wanted. Very enjoyable and productive evening.

Stephanie Tan • Attended Apr 2026



Easy to book online. The location is great too. Plenty of restaurants where one can have dinner before or after the session. I enjoyed sharing the comfortable and welcoming space within the cosy bookshop with other writers, the sharing of knowledge and the playbacks. Aud's presence, prompts and encouragement made it a very special experience for me. The wine, cheese and crackers were lovely too. I'll be back for sure. Thank you.

Ella Mitchell • Attended Apr 2026

This was Ella's second time doing this class



This evening’s thoughtful, brave facilitation, paired with such talented and welcoming participants made for satisfying creative exploration - I’ll definitely be back.

Susan Menzies • Attended Apr 2026



I really enjoyed the Write your Effing heart out session. Aud was a convivial host and her prompts were good to write to. And the group was a good sounding board. Thank you!

Jenna Mitropoulos • Attended Mar 2026



I really loved this class - excited to make writing a fun activity again. Grateful too that I was able to take my collaging supplies and collage along with my writing piece. All the expression was welcome!! The collaboration is the best part. Love the vibe that Aud curates and can't wait to go again

Samantha Cosmano • Attended Mar 2026



My first experience at writing, the teacher was amazing, she gave great prompts, examples and guidance to get the juices flowing. Such a great vibe and supporting environment.

Louise Davidson • Attended Feb 2026



Donita was excellent: patient and helpful.
After finding myself in a bit of a writing slump, this course was an excellent way to understand the 'why' of storytelling.
The tasks completed as part of the course made a real difference to the development of my characters.
Talking to other creatives about their processes and ideas was also beneficial. Everyone tells stories differently and, while there is no singular 'right' way to tell a story, with the right tools we can tell a story to be proud of.
Thanks, Donita!
I used a gift card to purchase this course, and it was very simple to do so.

Sami Cobb • Attended Feb 2026



An absolute joy! The Chestnut Tree Bookshop is the perfect setting for a writing workshop, so cosy and inviting. I’d definitely recommend arriving early for a browse of the books and little treasures before settling in.
Nova is a superb facilitator, with a finely tuned instinct for when to guide and when to step back and let the group focus on writing. The exercises were varied and well-paced, always thoughtfully introduced and supported. The feedback from both Nova and Donita on the piece I chose to share with the group truly elevated it, bringing it more vividly to life through comments that were specific, perceptive and encouraging in all the right ways.
Add a warm, friendly group, plus wine and nibbles, and it was the ideal creative escape. I had the best time and only wished it had been longer!

Calum Haddow • Attended Feb 2026

This was Calum's fourth time doing this class



Fantastic atmosphere that Aud and Donita have created, it’s a really safe space for us to be creative in and share what we’ve been working on (if we feel comfortable). Can’t recommend highly enough.

Kate Donald • Attended Feb 2026



Love love loved this class! The space, the snacks, the teacher - all amazing and so inspiring.

Jacqueline Ayton • Attended Feb 2026

This was Jacqueline's second time doing this class



Second time around and still came away with inspiration and believing I have something others would enjoy to read or some of my stories may be hard to hear but maybe lessons to be learned. A wonderful teacher.

Joni Meenagh • Attended Feb 2026



The memoir writing workshop with Nova Weetman was such a great vibe! A productive, safe space with tailored support and fun activities. I left feeling inspired to keep writing and with a stronger sense of what I want to achieve.

Carmen Jose • Attended Feb 2026



Awesome workshop. Nova was a superb facilitator and teacher - patient and full of knowledge and handy tips. Really enjoyed it.

Sean Fallon • Attended Feb 2026

This was Sean's ninth time doing this class



Always just a wonderful group and a chance to write a few thousand undistracted words

Tan Lee • Attended Jan 2026



I freakin' love this writing group. It's great for beginners and non-beginners alike, with lots of prompts provided to get those creative juices flowing. And is led with tons of heart in a beautiful bookshop space.

Sez Southgate • Attended Jan 2026



What an inspiring community of writers! Starting with some warm up prompts by the nights spunky host Dolita, before going into a focus session it was just what I needed to get going again after lil writing break. The location is in a super cosy and gorg bookshop, parking was easy and refreshments on offer. Will definitely be back!

Weekly BWC Writing Class: Write Your Effing Heart Out review by Sez Southgate - Melbourne

Anzari Atik • Attended Nov 2025



Facilitators were great. The time went so fast and I learnt so much. I left feeling more confident in plotting!

Carmen Jose • Attended Nov 2025



Amanda was amazing. Patient, thorough, and highly knowledgeable. She gave examples, listened to us and provided an incredibly informative workbook. Would highly recommend.

Liv Downing • Attended Nov 2025



This masterclass was brilliant - full of incredible information delivered in a warm and safe environment. Thanks so much!

Louise Davidson • Attended Nov 2025

This was Louise's sixth time doing this class



I used a gift card to book my writing classes. It was easy to do and I could not be happier.
The class is well run, inclusive and encouraging. Aud and Rachel are excellent, enthusiastic facilitators.
Several of the prompts throughout the classes have become scenes in the first draft of my book.
I highly recommend Bad Writers Club to anyone who enjoys writing or wants to get back into the habit. It's wonderful to have a group dedicated to the craft.

Trace Aylen • Attended Oct 2025

This was Trace's second time doing this class



Exceeds all expectations. Such a beautiful and safe space to create and explore. Aud is incredible and makes us all feel like writers.

Glen Hancox • Attended Oct 2025

This was Glen's third time doing this class



Great vibe. Love the prompts. Made me think about my writing in a different way. Good to hear from the others in the group.

Hannah Fagan • Attended Oct 2025

This was Hannah's fourth time doing this class



Always wonderful, always a delight

Trace Aylen • Attended Sep 2025



Amazing teacher. Exceeded all expectations. If you want to do something creative in a safe and fun environment then this is for you. Hooked already.

Sandy Clarisse • Attended Sep 2025



Loved the class! It was a mother's day present....no issues whatsoever booking a class with my gift card. I had no idea what to expect but absolutely loved the vibe! Very welcoming, non-judgmental and supportive environment...great place if anyone wants motivation to even put pen to paper and channel that inner writer

Nicole Wassell • Attended Sep 2025

This was Nicole's third time doing this class



Third time I’ve attended this group it’s fantastic, challenging and inspiring. Just what I need facilitators are fantastic thanks Aud… great to be able to chat with other people on a similar journey

Carmen Jose • Attended Sep 2025



Awesome class, awesome host, awesome environment.

Kate Sloane • Attended Sep 2025



This workshop was so much fun. Emilie was engaging and attentive and created an environment where you genuinely felt like there were no wrong answers. I have come away with more confidence in my writing and an increased appreciation for poetry.

Carlie Bradley • Attended Sep 2025



I had such a positive experience at this poetry workshop. From the very beginning, Emilie created an open and encouraging atmosphere that made it easy to share my thoughts without hesitation. I not only learnt new techniques and approaches to writing, but also discovered fresh ways of expressing myself and connecting with language. What stood out most was how Emilie balanced structure with creativity, making sure every voice felt heard and valued. I came away not just with practical skills, but also with a genuine boost of confidence in my own writing. Inspiring, welcoming, and thought-provoking — I’d recommend this workshop to anyone curious about poetry, whether you’re starting out or looking to deepen your craft.

Derek McCormack • Attended Sep 2025



Great. Inspiring. Great get me started on a new practice. I’d do it again any time.

Tianne Coss • Attended Aug 2025



My first write you heart out class. I had the best time. So many great prompts to get the creativity flow. I feel like this class gave me some more direction in my writing.

Nicole Wassell • Attended Aug 2025

This was Nicole's second time doing this class



Second time at this workshop, same wonderful feeling of inspiration and focus… I am not a writer by trade but I’ve always wanted to be and this workshop is wonderful for helping me find my voice. A different facilitator but equally wonderful! Can’t wait for the next one.

Weekly BWC Writing Class: Write Your Effing Heart Out review by Nicole Wassell - Melbourne

Stephanie O'Hanlon • Attended Aug 2025



The BEST first-time zine workshop experience!
I attended the Making Zines Workshop yesterday, and it completely exceeded my expectations - this wasn’t just a class, it was a creative awakening! It was my very first time making zines, and I was a bit nervous walking in… but I walked out totally inspired (and ready to make ten more).
Our instructor, Jasper (they/them), was absolutely brilliant - warm, knowledgeable, inclusive, and full of encouragement. They created such a welcoming space for everyone to explore their own stories and creative quirks. Jasper even offered to show me how to stitch-bind my zine by hand (!!) - such a thoughtful and hands-on touch that made the experience feel super special.
The venue had everything you could possibly need: scissors, glue sticks, papers, pens, markers, mags to cut up all ready to go. It was organised, colourful, and full of creative buzz. I felt like a kid in an art supply candy shop.
What I loved most? The freedom to express myself without pressure. I created a funny little zine about a wild gym saga, and no one judged; everyone was just into it! That kind of support and vibe is so rare, and so valuable.
Highly recommend to anyone, whether you're brand new to zines or a seasoned maker. I'm already planning my next zine!

Carlie Bradley • Attended Aug 2025



Jasper is such a powerhouse!
Attending this zine workshop was an eye-opening experience. It wasn’t just about learning how to make a zine—it became a space where I could pause, explore, and reflect on my own voice as a creative.
Being in the presence of such generous facilitators and fellow makers gave me the courage to play, experiment, and push past my own doubts. I walked away not only with new skills and ideas, but with a deeper sense of what I want to say through my work.
I’m really grateful for the opportunity and would recommend it to anyone wanting to connect with their creativity in a supportive, inclusive environment.

Jamie-Lee Owen • Attended Aug 2025

This was Jamie-Lee's second time doing this class



These classes are always great! It's a fun, relaxed time with a very supportive and safe crowd.

Rebecca Horton • Attended Jul 2025



Beautiful bookstore.
Friendly, knowledgeable hosts, who brought resources and had one on one chats with us. Loved the prompts. Liked the snacks.

Carlie Bradley • Attended Jun 2025



Aud was a very engaging facilitator. The class exceeded my expectations, particularly given that I don't typically enjoy a group environment. I gained a lot of insight from both Aud and my peers. You could feel and appreciate the care that went into developing the class. The wine and snacks were also elite.

Tianne Coss • Attended Jun 2025



Aid was incredible and so insightful with the use of cards and writing. The whole class was so engaging and sharing thoughts on their cards and how they directed their story. I loved this class so much and would love to do it again.

Stephanie Blake • Attended Jun 2025

This was Stephanie's second time doing this class



Really lovely group of people. Aud was an awesome facilitator. Great writing prompts and nice snacks!

Rachel Fung • Attended May 2025



Loved it - really served to spark transformative 'a-ha' moments for both myself as a writer and my characters. Amanda invites exploration into the depths of a character's inner world, uncovering their true essence. By delving into the intricacies of conflict, this workshop helped me discover how conflict not only propels the narrative of my story but also deepens character development. I feel a bit less guilty for being 'mean' to my characters now!
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