Bega Valley Shire Library's successful Where There's Smoke writing workshops - for those wanting to share their summer bushfire experiences - are in Bega, Bemboka and Eden in January and February.
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Lead by local author and therapeutic arts practitioner, Katherine Boland these COVID safe workshops are an opportunity for people to share their stories in a supportive environment.
"The health benefits of writing about trauma are well-documented, with research suggesting that recalling, reflecting and writing can ease the emotional pressure of distressing experiences," Ms Boland said.
"Writing about a traumatic event can be cathartic and help us gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of what happened.
"It is an effective tool for leaving something behind and moving forward. Giving ourselves the time to write and be creative is both rewarding and healing; a powerful act of recovery itself."
Ms Boland said sharing our stories with others in a supportive environment provides an opportunity for growth, friendship, validation and learning.
"It was a privilege to listen to the stories of the people from Candelo and Cobargo," she said.
"What stood out for me was how we all went through that terrible time together. There is not one person in the Bega Valley who wasn't affected by the bushfires in some way.
"We are all survivors, no matter what our experience."
Where There's Smoke writing workshops will be held at:
- Bemboka Hall on Saturday, February 6 from 9.30am to 4pm
- Eden Library on Saturday, February 20 from 9.30am to 4pm.
Katherine Boland is a local artist and author. She has a Graduate Diploma in Therapeutic Arts Practice from the Melbourne Institute of Experiential and Creative Art Therapies and is a Guided Autobiography instructor certified by the Birren Institute of Autobiographical Studies.
Book the COVID safe workshops online at http://www.begavalleyshirelibrary.eventbrite.com.au or call the Bega Library on 6499 2127.
