Anniversary Program
THREE DECADES OF WRITING, REIMAGINED FOR TODAY
In-person Workshops & Events
Over Spring and Summer 2025/26, MARION celebrates 30 years of delivering writing programs, publishing opportunities, and professional development — nurturing creativity and championing writers across the ACT and beyond. Scroll down to explore what’s coming up and secure your place in these anniversary events. More sessions will be added as details are confirmed.
NOVEMBER:
Interdisciplinary Arts Party: with Emma Batchelor
Friday, 7 November, 5:30-8pm
COST: Entry is Free but Donations welcome
TYPE: In-person Workshop
LEVEL: Beginners through to Advanced
About the workshop
This craft focused workshop will give participants an insight into writing in conversation with other artistic disciplines. Through discussion, observation and practical exercises, participants will explore the possibilities working across form can have on the content, tone, rhythm and energy of their writing whether it be poetry, prose or for live performance.
“I grew up within a contemporary dance company at QL2 Dance. The more I develop my writing practice, the more I realise how much it has been shaped by dance and embodied ways of thinking. In this workshop, I am excited to share this perspective, as well as tools from my own practice that participants can apply to their own writing in conversation with any other artform.” — Emma
About Emma
Emma Batchelor (she/her) is a queer, autistic writer, multidisciplinary artist and arts advocate from Kamberri (Canberra). Her debut novel Now That I See You won the Australian/Vogel Literary Award (2021). Her second novel Doing Good Work was developed with project funding from artsACT. Emma’s artistic practice focuses on the meeting point between writing and movement, exploring the self as both subject and object.
Emma has performed with QL2 Dance and choreographer James Batchelor, toured regionally and internationally, and in 2024 was a resident artist at The Street Theatre. She continues to develop interdisciplinary performance work supported by national mentorship and residency programs. Beyond her own creative practice, Emma is Chair of MARION, board member of Stellar Company, a mentor and ambassador for arts and literacy initiatives, and part of the ACT Minister’s Creative Council.
Spirited Words: A Write-in with Gin with Craig Cormick
Friday, 14 November, 5:30-7:30pm
COST: $25, includes cocktail/mocktail
TYPE: Members Only, In-person Workshop
LEVEL: Beginners through to Established
About Spirited Words: A Write-in with Gin:
Join us for Spirited Words, a special 30th anniversary write-in at Big River Distilling. This relaxed, light-hearted gathering is for MARION members of all levels, whether you’re a seasoned storyteller or just dipping your pen for the first time. Guests will be served a signature Big River cocktail (with a mocktail option available). That drink becomes the spark for your words, guiding you into playful, free-flowing writing. And at the centre of it all? The one and only Craig Cormick — author, raconteur, and mischievous master of ceremonies. Craig will be your ringleader for the evening, nudging, cheering, and coaxing you through bursts of writing. He might even tempt a few brave souls to share their creations at the end. Expect laughter, encouragement, and a night where creativity flows as freely as the gin.
About Craig Cormick
Dr Craig Cormick OAM is a multi-award-winning author and science communicator with more than 30 books to his name. A founding member of MARION 30 years ago, and later Chair of the organisation, he has long championed writers and the power of storytelling. He has also co-hosted the literary podcast Secrets from the Green Room, edited magazines and anthologies, and is particularly drawn to stories of people whose voices have been hidden from history. In 2025, his book Warra Warra Wai (with Darren Rix) was shortlisted for the Prime Minister’s Literary Awards in Australian History.