July -Woollahra Women's Chat Group

Have you ever thought about writing down your life stories, but weren't sure where to begin?

This friendly, free introductory workshop is designed for seniors who are curious about turning memories into meaningful stories.

Guided by cultural historian and published author Dr Marie Geissler, you will take part in a relaxed session of discussion, memory prompts and simple writing exercises. The focus is on discovering the value of your own experiences and learning how to shape them into an engaging memoir.

What to expect

During the workshop, you will:

• Answer simple, guided questions about your life experiences
• Take part in open, informal group discussions
• Explore how everyday memories can become powerful stories
• Try short, enjoyable writing exercises (no pressure, no grading)
• Learn practical ways to begin a memoir, even from a single moment

Why memoir writing matters

Writing a memoir can help you preserve meaningful experiences for yourself and your family, reflect on your personal journey with clarity, and strengthen memory and creativity through storytelling. Your stories also contribute to local and cultural history, helping younger generations understand lived experience and connecting communities through shared human stories.

Every life contains history. Memoir helps bring it into the open.

About the tutor

The workshop is led by Dr Marie Geissler, a cultural historian and published author. Her most recent publication is Dreaming the Land: Aboriginal Art from Remote Australia (Thames and Hudson, 2022). Dr Geissler is an Honorary Fellow at the University of Wollongong and has been teaching memoir writing in Sydney for over three years. Her approach is supportive, accessible and focused on helping participants find confidence in their own voice.

Details

• Date: Tuesday 28 July
• Time: 2pm – 3:30pm
• Cost: Free
• Format: Interactive workshop
  

This is a Woollahra Municipal Council program facilitated by Holdsworth.