Words on a Page in Kyneton, Victoria | Writing service

Words on a Page

Locality: Kyneton, Victoria

Phone: +61 400 096 313

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25.01.2022 Health or the lack of it can be a significant catalyst for change. Chronic illness was one of the reasons I chose to become my own boss. And my personal journey into wellness led me to recently establish my second business (work in progress). I reckon that’s one reason why I resonated so strongly with the business woman I interviewed for the latest OAK Magazine. Personal illness played a big part in her passion project. And I wonder what inspired Edwina Robertson too (t...he wedding photographer extraordinaire chick on the cover). These and other tidbits can be discovered in Issue 8. Congratulations and thanks to Kimberley Furness. Getting a print mag out in a pandemic, when marketing spend is up the creek, is a credit to you and your commitment to tell the stories of rural and regional women in business. Order your pre-sale copy now. https://www.oakmagazine.com.au/products/oak-magazine-issue-8

25.01.2022 I havent sent out SpruikFest for a while. Im fully booked till May. And frankly Id prefer to offer an occasional well-considered newsletter that hits the mark, than to spam subscribers with a half-baked tick a box just because the calendar calls time. This approach works for me because Im a sole trader whos done the strategic thinking to suit my business and its clients. Your goals might be totally different. And the priorities for a services business will probably diffe...r from a product based company. How many newsletters do you bother to read? The average open rate is about one in five. So you cant assume that people will want to read your missive. But how do you know what hits the mark? Join me at Mitchell Shire Council on 28 May to discover how to create an e-newsletter that people want to read. In the meantime, the autumn edition of SpruikFest is officially underway. Ill be on the panel with a bunch of people who know stuff at the Mitchell business program launch on 26 March. [UPDATE 18/3: EVENTS COVID-19 CANCELLED]

24.01.2022 Hey, Pearce Electricians should we have drafted a profile for Dennis in the web copy? Techno Bird will soon get the new website a-happening, and more folks from Melbourne to the Macedon Ranges will find out why this electrical business was declared Australian Community Tradie of the Year. If you need a clever sparky with integrity and purpose, Jacob is your go to guy.

23.01.2022 I met a new client on Monday. This city legal firm has big ticket clients in a niche field. They know who they want to work with, and they grow their business through astute referrals and targeted contact. They were clear that the website were revamping is a platform for credibility and integrity, not an active tool of engagement. Another client loves social media even less than I do. He builds face-to-face relationships, and we keep him in touch through strategic blogs and... quarterly newsletters. When he first made contact I Google stalked him. His last Facebook entry was 18 months ago. Putting a prospective client hat on, that made me wonder if he was still a current business. So he now posts occasionals and uses social media only as a currency noticeboard and signpost to his website. Social media is great for many businesses. And yes, there are behind the scenes tech reasons to have it bubbling away. But its not a fit for all. I love that Im working with folks who are succeeding without playing the game. SM is a self-perpetuating industry, constantly shifting the algorithm goal posts so you feel that you cant keep up and have to hire an expert to tell you the latest tricks that will be on trend for all of about eight minutes. I prefer to work with solid foundations (ones that hold up in shifting sands).

22.01.2022 Ahoy to those among us who choose to listen deeply and widely. Herewith, 10% off brain picking and copywriting services for card carrying Triple R - 3RRR 102.7FM subscribers. www.rrr.org.au/subscribe/discounts/words-on-a-page

22.01.2022 This lady had a dream. The ideas inspired her short story. That publication led to a book. That book became a trilogy, and last week I helped her to launch the final instalment - The Ruined Land - at Readings. So, listen to your dreams. And say what you need to say. The Chronicles of the Pale series is Clare Rhodens contribution to speculative, hope and climate fictions. It shines a light on how we humans define, divide and decide. The thought provoking adventure tale ponders our relationships to the planet, one another and the non-human world. Summer reading sorted.

22.01.2022 I found out on Friday that my July Nail your Narrative council workshop has been postponed. But after getting into Sand Talk today, Im kind of relieved. I think my ideas on narrative and storytelling need editing. I am aware that were allowed out but I have not left the house today. This pile of non-fiction has been beckoning for some time. Its such a relief to read other peoples words on a page. And Sand Talk is officially blowing my mind. Do find yourself a copy ...(because I dont think I can lend you mine). I reckon Ill be engaging back and forth with Tyson Yunkaportas ideas on how indigenous thinking can save the world for some time to come. Id love to chat about those ideas over a cuppa when youve read it. P.S. WoaP is closed next week. Back on 15th June.

22.01.2022 Postcard of a post of a post.

18.01.2022 As long as I am in business I will protect the apostrophe. I like apostrophes. More than emojis. Sigh. Though technically speaking the image used in this article could be correct as adjectival possession, 96 year old John doesnt care anymore. He just wants his hair cut.

18.01.2022 OFFICE HOURS | Permaculture often gets downplayed as organic gardening. But its more of an integrated systems approach underpinned by core ideas of earth care, people care and fair share. It sort of makes sense that social permaculture has emerged as a framework for community, organisations and business. Im a newbie but its something I am consciously trying to weave into Words on a Page. To do a better job of it - and to grow more food - Ill be closing the office on Wednesdays for a while. Off to do the permaculture design course at Castlemaine Community House. They really do have have quite excellent programs over there.

18.01.2022 Ponder face. I quite fancy the image Flying Solo has attached to my article about editing (though I screw up my face way more when deep in thought). If youve been pondering how to enhance your business writing, heres a few quick and easy tips. For soloists and multi-ists alike.

17.01.2022 How do you transform waffle into something interesting and coherent? Copyediting. What happens when a gazillion subject matter experts contribute their two bobs? Substantive editing. And who can help when the words have been in your face for so damn long that its all become a blur, and Draft 1.12 is about to push you over the edge? Editor. Proof reader.... Jump to the blog to learn about the different stages of editing, why you need them and what you can do to improve your own words on a page.

17.01.2022 Obtaining a yield. That permie principle came to mind today as I was harvesting from, cooking with and planting in the vegie garden I share with my neighbours. I realised with hindsight, and also in this present moment, that that’s what 2020 has delivered for me. Firstly, learning to yield and surrender. But I can also sense that many of the seeds that I’ve been planting these past years are now poking their head above the dirt. That growth is only happening after the f...allow season, from nurturing the soil, letting the compost rot, and then building nourishing new foundations (sometimes a garden is more than a garden). A couple of years ago this little plot was all weeds and stones, and a bugger to mow. There were a couple of half-hearted seasons. But today my lunch plate was filled with its goodies, thanks to collaboration with my neighbours, who sourced recycled materials from their vacant block, and also with the horses up the road who delivered the good sh*t. Repurposing. Yeah, that feels like what I’m doing too. In February, I’m embarking on a ten month Nature-Based Leadership program with CERES Environment Park and Nature's Apprentice. Next year I’ll also complete my 1-2-1 Diploma, which is underway with Sound Healing Academy International. WoaP will continue, but in a slightly altered state, supporting values-based businesses to obtain a yield. Thanks to all the souls who sought my word work this year. Some seriously ripper projects emerged. Enquiries are now open for 2021.

17.01.2022 Secret Forest Walks and WoaP are preparing to (re)launch our Team Building + Business Storytelling Workshops in Daylesford/Hepburn. From the mineral spring capital of Australia, we’re giving organisations the chance for fresh air and fresh thinking to bubble up business together. Face to face. Side by side. Sharing the textas. There’s a mineral water masterclass, nature scavenger hunt and word workshop, to get you all in the same place and on the same page to write new storie...s for the year ahead. The immersive workshops cater for 10-25 people. Full details (including booking info and covid normal ops) will be released over the summer. In the meantime, sing out if you're thinking about how to get the band back together, and we can keep you in the loop.

17.01.2022 Ok, so Ive thought (more than once) about chucking my little business. But its not worth ten million schmackos! Samantha Wills jewellery has been worn by Hollywood stars and celebrities. Last year she announced that she was closing the business shed grown from a Bondi market stall into a global brand. In the next edition of @oakmagazineau/ Editor Kimberley Furness speaks to Samantha about the emotional journey of entrepreneurship. And I talk with someone a little closer t...o home, whos just started on her own entrepreneurial journey after a 35 year career. OAK has honest stories of/for women in business, and tops advice to keep on truckin, whichever way the road does turn, and whatever new roads you find yourself travelling. You can pre-order Issue 7 now, and youll be reading before Xmas. Looking the goods thanks to the @thedesignpod/ .

17.01.2022 Webinar-ing. The professional development covid wants me to have. With thanks to Mitchell Shire Council. Ill be talking and teaching on matters e-news. Its an interactive session on 3 September, with tips and tricks on what to say + how to pull it together.

17.01.2022 I didnt know what a phascogale was until this writing job came along. But right now, these marsupials are going at it. Its prime breeding time between May and July. Then the one season wonder males will die. With safe habitats this short natural life cycle wouldnt be such a problem. But habitats are increasingly fragmented and disconnected. Through its Glideways project, Central Victorian Biolinks Alliance Inc is now spreading the word about why this matters, and showing ...people what they can do about it (and not just for phascogales). Citizen science in action. Check out the media that helped this local conservation group gain exposure for its project.

16.01.2022 Locals, I may have let the cat out the bag about Black Hill. But I think (hope) the tourists will still gravitate to The Rock. Thanks to Flying Solo for profiling rural small business people and their places. Chuffed to have Words on a Page featured this week. If you are a micro business that has not yet tapped into the FS resources, you really should hop to the website. Its been a handy go to for me since I began. You can start by reading this: https://www.flyingsolo.com.au/startup/natalie-dowling

16.01.2022 The Business of Writing. One for the Creatives. A couple of years into my business writing business I noticed that my personal creative writing had halted. Are the two styles mutually exclusive? Nah, but there's a different headspace required, I reckon. Thanks to the prolific clever author lady that is Clare Rhoden, for inviting me to offer business writing advice to her creative readership people.

15.01.2022 Leave a review. Hmm. Its a bit passive. Dismissive even (depending how you engage with the response). Heres a few tips to be more active and strategic in seeking and using feedback.

14.01.2022 Heads up for local business people. Ive just updated WoaPs info on the upgraded Macedon Ranges Shire Council business directory. Its a snazzy user-friendly design. The former info seems to be defunct so your old entry has probably become redundant and inaccessible. Get on it. Dont forget the key words.

14.01.2022 BACK OF HOUSE | Yes, this is the rear end of my place. Ive been playing behind the scenes to work ON my business this past week. I highly recommend carving out time and space to ponder, plan and position. It has been gold on so many levels. Among all the things, Ive got a revamped about me page, which is now a much truer reflection of how I want to work and who I intend to work with into the new decade. You can take a peek at my 2020 vision at: www.wordsonapage.com.au/bespoke-wordsmith Happy New Year.

14.01.2022 NATURE AS BUSINESS COACH | Last week I spoke with a client who is shopping around for a business coach. I reckon nature is one of the best. Thanks to Flying Solo for publishing my thoughts on what nature has to offer business people, and why Fridays strike for the climate matters. And thanks to Girl Nibling for the image from our camping trip.

13.01.2022 ON BEING COOPED UP | Im in the privileged position of having worked from home for six years. My soul naturally inclines to solitude. Ive got projects on the go and medication in the fridge. Zoom meetings happen. So, these times are (for now) less disruptive for me than many of you out there. One of the things I love about spending chunks of time at home is observing and interacting with the nature thats right here with me; the stuff thats so easy to miss when youre com...ing, going and rushing about. The lizard in my back garden bed, the family of magpies warbling, those young ones learning to fly. The hovering moths with designs on the kale. Pollinating insects dancing among the clover. I could go on... But instead, I invite you to go see whats in your own backyard. Or the courtyard balcony. Or investigate that spider web in the corner of your living room. Sit in a spot each day; use all of your senses to find out whats happening in your immediate surrounds. You might just discover that your home is a much bigger world than you think. And nature is a delicious tonic for these times.

12.01.2022 WINNER | Words need to be fit for purpose. Your web site is different to an award application. Tender documents require a tone that you wouldnt use on social media. And so it goes. You need to think strategically and creatively about your communication buckets. Edifice Construction already has a tops local copywriter for their web, blogs and day-to-day marketing. But they wanted a different perspective for this award application; someone who could pick their brain and help t...hem to leverage the great things they are doing. Within strict word limits. Last night their work was recognised. Our work on this project has also given them confidence and ideas to enhance their future marketing. This family business builds quality homes and theyre also doing big things for community, sustainability and equity. They understand the value of investing in their business with systems, people and words that are fit for purpose. Congrats! https://www.facebook.com/edconstruct/

11.01.2022 What do you look for when monitoring wildlife populations? After the bushfire summer weve had, I feel more hopeful having learned last week about the ongoing community connected conservation work of organisations like Central Victorian Biolinks Alliance Inc and Strathbogie Ranges Conservation Management Network - SRCMN. The citizen science Glideways project Ill be writing about gives people a chance to do something for wildlife and habitat, in this case mapping glider marsu...pials and learning how to monitor populations on farmland and roadsides, then use that data to create more connected wildlife corridors. This work is about long-term resilience and biodiversity. Its led by local people on the ground, but as part of the The Great Eastern Ranges Initiative, the scope and potential is vast. Is good.

11.01.2022 Nestled in Newlyn. Back in Issue 5 of OAK Magazine I profiled Liv Reppas - heavy metal journo, event organiser and regenerative farmer over at Meraki Organic Farm. Liv and her partner Daniele always had plans to transform the farm shack into deluxe accommodation. That time has come and the reno is underway. You can follow Little Luxe at Meraki Farm and put yourself in line for a delightful road trip rest place. Think foodie good times on farmland in spa country between Daylesford and Creswick. Plus there's Liv, as your hostess with the mostest.

11.01.2022 A cricket fan who got a gig at a cricket association. A swimmer who now works at a pool. Parents who returned to study after their kids went to school. Blokes who’d been out of the workforce for a while. Young people who’d ditched school. People are at different stages in their life and some need a lot of support and encouragement... While I was copyediting CVGT Australia's annual report I got an insight into the depth and breadth of that support and encouragement that the... team delivers and facilitates across three states. So many transformational stories emerged because staff listened to where people were at, got to know what made someone tick, and put creative effort into matching them with a welcoming and inclusive place to work.

11.01.2022 Its a safe bet that there are no Collingwood graffitists hanging out here on my page. So I will note that the roller door at the end of this mural got a going over. Surrounding buildings have too. But this work is untouched. It seems the locals like it, Jasmine Mansbridge Art. Jasmine is a Hamilton local but her paintbrushes are global citizens, and her streetscapes are popping up everywhere from Collingwood to Hong Kong and London. Learn more via my profile story inside the latest issue of OAK Magazine, a rather splendid print publication that showcases women in business.

10.01.2022 Ive been pondering a fire pit for my backyard. Its small. I rent. But oh, the stars Today I got to meet Sam Crawford. In the flesh. Beyond Zoom. In boots other than ugg. And now I have fire pit envy. Sams a local landscape designer, and the outdoor space shes created on her familys Macedon Ranges property made me want to grab my fireside blankie and settle on in. Instead, we drank tea and reviewed the first draft of her new web copy. The revamped Sam Crawford Landscape Design will go live mid-late July. Fires blazing.

10.01.2022 A travelling typewriter and poems for the people. I listened to this wonderful podcast today, about the beauty and power of words on a page. Every day is a poem. If you get a chance, listen in to the interview with poet, Jacqueline Suskin. I love her idea that words heal people, and that healing people is her way to heal the earth. I'm also going to have a crack at her 'write down what you like' exercise. It sounds like an easier way in to gratitude practice. And because, just quietly, I am fond of lists.

09.01.2022 Sometimes projects need fresh eyes. Thumbs up to see this substantive editing released into the world. For the past month Mornington Peninsula Shire has been consulting its community and stakeholders to gather feedback on its plan to achieve net zero emissions by 2040. Council declared a climate emergency last August and since then officers have worked tirelessly to develop this collaborative piece of work - with multiple authors, complex information and challenging ideas. ...WoaP was called in to bring the words to life and inject a little human speak (alongside talented in-house graphic designers). The right words can make a difference - for people and the planet. The current pandemic has reinforced the value of community connections and local solutions. This climate emergency action plan offers a tangible pathway for families, businesses and organisations to develop some of those solutions. Its also a model for other local governments to take the lead.

08.01.2022 I wrote a rant. For my fellow Victorian sole traders. Business Victoria doesnt think your business has been highly impacted by the lockdowns (umm) or that youre worthy of support.... Thanks to Flying Solo for the platform.

08.01.2022 I write for a living. For others. Strategically. With outcomes in mind. I play with words like jigsaws. So do you reckon that was a help or a hindrance when it came to freestyling in the forest? Cripes. Its been an interesting week of reflection as some workshop magic seeps in. As I dont have a boss demanding my professional development report I herewith proffer a few words that eventually emerged out of my little sit spot on the NSW coast. This will make the ATO tax deduction people happy. Not because they like banksias. Though I hope some do.

06.01.2022 Could you handle 25 years without weekends? I interviewed Mel, the General Manager of Farmers Arms Daylesford for OAK Magazine, and she shared some interesting insights into life in hospitality. She got to see herself in all the print glory today. It was a moment. The regional pub is about to reveal its new seasonal menu, just as spring presents us with the days in which to soak up local food, wine and courtyard good times. Worth a day trip or a sleepover. The luxe art suite ...beds are very snorable. Order the mag at www.oakmagazine.com.au/product/oak-magazine-issue-6/

06.01.2022 BRAIN PICKER | CONSULTATION SESSION I feel sort of capable of talking again after this despairing week... One of the things Ive come to love about my interactions with clients is the bit where we banter about the business and unpack motivations and ideas. Its a process of big discovery - for me but also for the people I am engaging. Tapping into the stuff they didnt know they knew. ... Because, after six years, I can see how helpful this work is, Ive turned it into a stand alone service. This makes it an affordable interactive session to reflect and to gather the ideas, confidence and targeted tips to take your business out into the world. From there you can DIY or call in the professionals, with a clear and strategic understanding of who you are and what you need to do. Brainpicker is $349+GST. It includes a 30 minute review plus a 90 minute session F2F or online. Itll do the trick for a general refresh or specific project. More info over at the revamped workshops page www.wordsonapage.com.au/business-writing-workshop or shout ahoy and we can talk.

05.01.2022 I think weve gotten better at talking about burnout, mental health and wellness. But as someone who manages a few chronic illnesses I know that the system isnt always so great at supporting people as unique beings. Tick the box. Take this medication. Move along. The Story Costumer gave Caroline Sarah a personalised outlet for becoming well; her small business that supports individuals and communities to cultivate playful and creative expression for their own wellness, joy and connection (or just to totally rock a shindig). Thanks to OAK Magazine for being a wonderful platform for stories that matter, and to Caroline for sharing her story with me.

05.01.2022 Back in June, the CEO on the left called me in for a brainpicker session, to review his award submission draft and to chinwag about how to nail the narrative. The result? State winner. Actually, make that national winner after this week's announcement. Congratulations to the team at Builders Academy Australia. Here's what Andrew had to say about WoaP's contribution:... Natalie’s guidance really helped me to polish our training award application. It's been such a challenging year for our team so these state and national wins are great recognition of our work and impact. Natalie's demonstrated herself as an expert wordsmith, and I can highly recommend her services to help with organisational storytelling and copywriting."

05.01.2022 Ah, editing. Life being rewritten. Is editing your budget three times a day just a diversionary tactic to gain a semblance of control? I may need to deal with that... On the work front I am substantively editing a council climate action plan and a hospital strategic plan. My red pen is getting a workout. So I have been pondering the value of editing and these times in which we be. Editing. The fresh eyed review. A pathway to clarity and coherence; a method to articulate the c...ore narrative. For choosing the vital bits and culling the fluff. Recognising that less is more. We often fear lifes red pen. Not as much as Miss Mugavins metal ruler over the knuckles in grade two. But we dont always recognise the value of the review, the pause for reflection or the opportunity for feedback and change. I guess it all depends how it is offered and perceived. I am trying to make the most of this moment in time to critically reflect and rewrite my next chapter. To get stuff done. Gently. Red pen in hand.

04.01.2022 Bubbles. Stories. Business. Heres a few sparkling ideas to tell your story and tout your wares in 2020.

04.01.2022 I might be the only employee of my little business. I should spend Friday editing the big report on my desk. But I will be on strike. Supporting kids to find their own voice is not enough. Our grown up practices have to change. You can sign up your business at notbusinessasusual.com.au

04.01.2022 PROFILES | If you want to cast a wider net online, be real and engaging. Not a formulaic cardboard cutout. I write bespoke LinkedIn profiles. And yes, the platform is worth it. I get enquiries and paid gigs through my networks. I just got a small job from a new contact who read my post last week. This is Chris. She does numbers. I do words. Shes just got herself a new LinkedIn profile for $449 +GST. Its personalised, professional and conversational (link below). It shares s...ome of her why and also articulates what problems she solves. Last year I decided to take my financials a little more seriously after five years of bumbling along. It helped to bounce around ideas with Chris and to learn how to better use Xero. Now were bouncing around word ideas for her business, Macedon Ranges Tax & Accounting. Website revamp on the way. In the meantimehttps://au.linkedin.com/in/christine-greene-5bb9649a

03.01.2022 Its hard to blow your own trumpet. People can be uncomfortable talking about their achievements. Sometimes folks dont even recognise their work as distinctive or valuable, its just what I do. Over the past few months Ive been working with the Victorian TAFE Association to develop a bunch of how to resources to support TAFE people to tout their wares and write award winners; to see, celebrate and acknowledge their own contributions. Its been a great project that le...verages my track record writing awards. Statewide wins. Local winners. National finalists. Across a range of industries (yes, I am blowing my own trumpet). If you want a little expert advice re awards, or even if youre just looking for confidence or ways to articulate your own value, get in touch. Or start with this quick read. www.wordsonapage.com.au/copywriter-blog/businessawards #victrainingawards

03.01.2022 Yesterday, I became a first time floater. Today I feel the flow in my body, brain cells and emotions. Like the reset button has been hit. Yep, the Flow Floatation & Sensory Retreat experience lives up to name. It was a treat to meet Trudy in her space after zoom interviewing her for OAK Magazine Issue 8. Our conversation had me curious about this wellness practice. The Bendigo business copped the full covid closure in its first year. But it’s back to happy days now that the ...pod doors reopened this week. Read the story and book yourself a session. Oh, if there was ever a time for a restorative regional reset *** Print copies available online or find an OAK stockist near you. https://www.oakmagazine.com.au/products/oak-magazine-issue-8

03.01.2022 When I hear the word ‘pivot’, I (mostly in my head) plant my right foot firmly on the ground and swivel. Those old school Kyneton Netball Association drills are deeply embedded. But this year is a whole new ball game. Wendy McLaughlin launched her travel manager business in 2019. It was really starting to take off. Until. So, she’s pulled a pivot and established a sister business delivering virtual assistance. Helpful stuff when you want someone else to manage the mute button...s for your umpteenth zoom meeting. With all of this Wendy needed a vibrant LinkedIn profile that cohesively shared the business stories. It was a fun one to write. You can discover Wendy at https://au.linkedin.com/in/wendy-mclaughlin-beyond-me

02.01.2022 Ive spent the past two days in vision and strategy land to pivot my business into 2020. In jolly good timing the postie came through with the goods this arvo and delivered my copies of OAK Magazine. Ive only done the quick flick so far but have already gleaned a gold nugget or two to inspire me with this business development. Also, happy claps to see the The Story Costumer so boldly in print. You can check out Caroline and the full bunch of bold Issue 7 women by ordering o...nline at http://bit.ly/OAKISSUE7. Right, soldier on. See you next year.