Poetry Writing Workshop - Beginning Your Journey as a Poet

Join award-winning poet Amanda Anastasi to learn more about the craft of poetry writing and how to get your work out there. In this workshop, award-winning Melbourne poet Amanda Anastasi will guide you through a series of writing exercises and insights gained from a 15-year career, from refining your poems to finding the right audience for your work. This session is perfect for both beginners and emerging poets. No prior experience is necessary. Bring your curiosity, words, and a willingness to experiment with ideas and language. Amanda’s supportive, down-to-earth teaching style will help you gain confidence in your own voice and develop the skills to take your poetry further. About your facilitator: Amanda Anastasi is a Melbourne poet and author of 'Taking Apart the Bird Trap' (Recent Work Press, 2024) and 'The Inheritors' (Black Pepper Publishing, 2021). Her work has been featured in Best of Australian Poems 2025, Australian Poetry Journal, Best Australian Science Writing, Griffith Review and the Massachussetts Review, among other places. Amanda is the host and curator of La Mama Poetica and sits on the committees of the Williamstown Literary Festival and Sonic Poetry Festival. Reviews from former workshop participants... "Loved this course! Amanda was a great instructor - warm, friendly and really knowledgeable. The session interwove summaries of poetry techniques and styles, but plenty of time to write and share our own attempts. I learned a lot and feel inspired to keep developing my craft. Highly recommend this course!" Gwena T. "This was a great experience for a beginner in poetry writing. An intimate and safe atmosphere." - Asia W. "Great class, really knowledgable facillitator, chances to write and explore different genres of poetry, but comfortable and exploratory focussed. Participants are not made to read aloud but the chance is there. Eye opening and thought provoking. Thank you!" - Clemmie P. "I loved this beginner poetry class. Amanda was lovely, kind, knowledgeable and encouraging of all attendees. The content helped to inspire my writing and I’m keen to do more of Amanda’s classes in the future." - Rebecca I. Venue: Kathleen Syme Library & Community Centre, Activity Room 2