\'Are you struggling in your garret trying to write something that wants to get out of your head?

Well, so am I, \"said Rose Mercer who, after a couple of satisfying careers, is now an emerging writer with feature articles and short stories published and awarded. She said: \"I\'m suffering through the gestation period of a novel, \"Now she\'s hoping other writers will join her to inspire each other, workshop and support the processes.

Among others, Rose has a partially completed Diploma of Professional Writing and Editing. \"I hate editing; redoing anything is so tough, as I\'m sure others will agree, \"she states with a wink. \"I envisage us working together as peers to further our respective writing aspirations.\"

\"I\'ve been writing for years but mostly for business, and then feature articles for various publications. I wrote regularly for ArtStreams which sadly is now defunct. When I started writing fiction, I realised how much more fun it is to make stuff up.\" Rose is pleased to count the international best selling mystery author, Sue Grafton, as a friend and mentor. \" It\'s her fault I\'m writing a novel. She told me that if my heart isn\'t in short stories I need to stop spinning my wheels and get on with the job. Well, I find it very difficult to keep myself inspired and working, hence the idea of starting Docklands Writers.\"
\"I imagine Docklands Writers to be a gathering of like-minded individuals, suitable for both aspiring and more experienced writers of all styles, meeting in a casual, safe and fun-filled environment. The aim is to motivate each other, gain constructive feedback, discuss issues around writing and provide a forum for guest speakers, funds permitting.\"

The structure, at least initially, may be to invite group members to submit pieces by email, prepared to receive constructive feedback the following week when the group comes together.

When asked as a child what she wanted to be when she grew up, Rose always said \'a writer\". Well, it\'s time to put her money where her mouth is, isn\'t it?

Rose Mercer came to Docklands by way of Transylvania (where she was born), Sydney, Alice Springs and Warrandyte. \"Living in Docklands, I am living my dream. I\'m high off the ground so no bugs, beasties and weeds, I\'m walking distance to cafes, restaurants, trams, the hairdresser, doctor\'s surgery and shops, including the supermarket. Can anything be better? Actually yes, belonging to a writers group.

\"Rose is also a co-convenor of Sisters in Crime Australia who support and celebrate Australian Women Crime Writers, and is, of course, a member of the Victorian Writers Centre. Oh yes, and she\'s had the honour of being owned by several cats in the past.

Docklands Writers will have its first meeting at The Hub, 7-9pm on Wednesday 6 October 2010; the group will run over six sessions with a break between weeks three and four. Expressions of interest: rose@grahammercer.com.au or The Hub 8622 4822.