A practical conversation about navigating the path to publication.
PLUS: Apply for a one-on-one pitch feedback session!
In conversation with Literary agent Jane Novak
Key Information
About: Join literary agent Jane Novak in conversation with Hunter Writers’ Centre Director, Katherine McLean for a candid discussion about pitching, publishing, and finding the right fit for your work.
When: Saturday 30 August, 2 pm – 3 pm
Venue: Foghorn Brewery, 218 King Street, Newcastle 2300
Cost:
Full Price: $25
Member: $15
Registrations for this event are now closed.
About the Event
What do literary agents look for in a pitch? How do you approach them—and what should you avoid? If you’ve ever wondered how to take the next step toward publication, this conversation is for you.
Join literary agent Jane Novak in conversation with Hunter Writers’ Centre Programs Coordinator Bastian Phelan for a candid discussion about pitching, publishing, and finding the right fit for your work. Jane will share insights from her 30 years in the industry—spanning bookselling, publishing, and agenting—including what makes a submission stand out, what turns agents off, and what to expect from the agent-writer relationship.
Whether you’re getting ready to submit a manuscript or just beginning to explore the publishing world, this session offers a chance to ask real questions and get honest answers from someone who’s seen it all.
This is a ticketed event and places are limited.
This event is the first in our series of Trade Talks exploring the world of publishing with industry professionals.
Apply for a one-on-one pitch feedback session
Applications for a practice pitch session is now closed.
Following the public talk, Jane will provide individual feedback to a limited number of writers on their manuscript pitch.
We invite pitch applications for works of fiction, non-fiction, memoir and crime fiction. This pitching session is not suitable for romance, children’s literature, sci-fi/fantasy or poetry.
Apply before 5 pm Friday 8 August
Please read the guidelines carefully, prepare your pitch, and then submit via the Apply for Pitch Session button below.
Guidelines for Submission
- The following information is required for application:
- manuscript title
- the hook
- genre and word count
- brief synopsis
- author bio.
- Genres accepted include fiction, nonfiction, memoir, and crime fiction.
- Romance, sci-fi/fantasy, children’s literature, and poetry will not be considered.
Applications will be assessed against the following criteria:
- Clarity and focus: Does the pitch clearly convey the premise, genre, and stakes of the manuscript in a compelling and concise way?
- Market viability: Does the manuscript idea demonstrate potential appeal to a defined audience or fit within current publishing trends?
- Originality and voice: Does the pitch showcase a fresh concept or a distinctive narrative voice that stands out?
- Preference will be given to Hunter Writers’ Centre members
Please note: To be considered for the Pitch Feedback Session, you must be registered to attend the public talk.
If your pitch application is successful, there is an additional fee of $50 (full price) / $35 (member/concession/youth). This will be invoiced separately.
Applicants will be notified of the outcome on Monday 11 August.
Accessibility
Foghorn Brewery caters for people who use a wheelchair, walking frames and mobility aids.
Please let us know if you have specific access requirement when you are booking your workshop. Please email Bastian at programs@hunterwriterscentre.org or call Katherine on 0435 858 145 to discuss specific access requirements.
Getting There
Public Transport: For specific routes and timetables, refer to Newcastle Transport’s official website. Newcastle Transport
By Car: There is limited parking on the street. Find nearby city carparks here.
About Jane Novak
Jane Novak is a literary professional with thirty years’ experience in bookselling, publishing and agenting. She is passionate about Australia’s local industry and the creation and promotion of Australian books and writers.
The Jane Novak Literary Agency represents writers across all genres as well as a number of literary estates.