Stories to Keep
Personal writing sessions on the Sunshine Coast
Stories to Keep is a relaxed writing group for people who have memories, stories, and experiences they'd like to put into words. It's a space to come together, slow down, remember, reflect, and put something of yourself on paper.
Next group
Fairhill Adventure Gardens, Ninderry
Tuesdays, 9.30am–11.30am
Starting 6 October 2026
$39 per session
It's run by Sunshine Coast freelance writer Sarah Vercoe, who has spent more than a decade writing about everything from health and psychology to travel and profiles. A lot of her work involves talking with people about their experiences, sometimes about difficult or personal things, and turning those conversations into stories.
After years of writing other people's stories, Sarah wanted to create something that gave people the time and encouragement to write their own.
Each session starts with a writing prompt to get the words flowing. Prompts might bring up memories of family, people, places, childhood, relationships, or moments that have stayed with us.
Come along to a single session, or make it a regular part of the week. There is no need to be working towards a memoir or finished piece. The aim is simply to write and see where it leads.
Who is Stories to Keep for?
Stories to Keep is for anyone who:
has stories, memories, or experiences they'd like to write down
would like some structure and encouragement to make time for writing
has thought about writing a collection of personal stories or a memoir, but isn't sure where to start
simply wants to write without having a particular goal in mind
enjoys writing, including poetry, and would like to write alongside other people
You don't need to be a writer, and you don't need to be working towards a memoir or a finished book.
The writing can take whatever form feels right. That might be a story, a personal essay, a letter to someone you love, a poem, or simply a memory you want to get down on paper.
Each session will have its own prompts and theme, so you can come along whenever you'd like.
No previous writing experience is needed. Just bring your memories, something to write with, and a willingness to see where the words take you.
Meet your facilitator
Sarah Vercoe
Sarah is a freelance writer with more than a decade of professional writing experience and a Bachelor of Arts in Professional Writing and Publishing from Curtin University. She specialises in health, personal storytelling, and writing that gives people space to share their experiences in their own words.
She’s written for publications including Australian Women's Weekly, MindFood, The Guardian, Luxury Travel, Travel Weekly, and House of Wellness, and works with health organisations and non-profits to tell stories about the people, experiences, and work behind what they do.
What to Expect
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Each week, you’ll be introduced to a different theme and provided with prompts to get your memories and ideas flowing. The prompts are simply starting points, and you can take your writing wherever you want.
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You'll have plenty of time during each session to write at your own pace. You might write a short piece, work on something you've started, or follow an idea somewhere unexpected.
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Sharing your writing isn't required, but if you'd like to read something to the group, there'll be space to do that. Hearing other people's stories can help spark ideas of your own, and it’s a lovely way to get to know each other too.
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Stories to Keep is a relaxed, supportive space where everyone can write, reflect and share at their own pace. We’ll approach each other’s stories and experiences with care and respect, and you’ll never be expected to share anything you’d rather keep private.
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If you'd like some help with something you've written, you can bring it along and I'll offer suggestions. I might help you tighten a piece, develop an idea, or try a different way of telling part of your story. You can also simply write without seeking feedback.
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You don't need to be working towards a memoir or a finished book. Poetry, letters, personal essays, family stories, and everything in between are all ways to tell your story. The aim is to give you the time, prompts, and encouragement to write the things you want to write.
Think Stories to Keep might be for you?
Come along and give it a go.
Next session
Tuesday 6 October
9.30am–11.30am
Fairhill Gardens, Ninderry
$39
Spaces are limited
Book your place →
Personal writing sessions on the Sunshine Coast
Stories to Keep is a relaxed writing group for people who have memories, stories, and experiences they'd like to put into words. It's a space to come together, slow down, remember, reflect, and put something of yourself on paper.
Next group
Fairhill Adventure Gardens, Ninderry
Tuesdays, 9.30am–11.30am
Starting 6 October 2026
$39 per session
It's run by Sunshine Coast freelance writer Sarah Vercoe, who has spent more than a decade writing about everything from health and psychology to travel and profiles. A lot of her work involves talking with people about their experiences, sometimes about difficult or personal things, and turning those conversations into stories.
After years of writing other people's stories, Sarah wanted to create something that gave people the time and encouragement to write their own.
Each session starts with a writing prompt to get the words flowing. Prompts might bring up memories of family, people, places, childhood, relationships, or moments that have stayed with us.
Come along to a single session, or make it a regular part of the week. There is no need to be working towards a memoir or finished piece. The aim is simply to write and see where it leads.
Who is Stories to Keep for?
Stories to Keep is for anyone who:
has stories, memories, or experiences they'd like to write down
would like some structure and encouragement to make time for writing
has thought about writing a collection of personal stories or a memoir, but isn't sure where to start
simply wants to write without having a particular goal in mind
enjoys writing, including poetry, and would like to write alongside other people
You don't need to be a writer, and you don't need to be working towards a memoir or a finished book.
The writing can take whatever form feels right. That might be a story, a personal essay, a letter to someone you love, a poem, or simply a memory you want to get down on paper.
Each session will have its own prompts and theme, so you can come along whenever you'd like.
No previous writing experience is needed. Just bring your memories, something to write with, and a willingness to see where the words take you.