Workshop Testimonials

  • "The workshop was informative, interesting, inspiring, helpful and it was easy to engage with Betty as the presenter. She was really impressive, knowledgeable and approachable."

    Writing NSW: feedback from workshops

  • "Very practical and good hints to proceed."

    Writing NSW: feedback from workshops

  • "Betty’s material was well arranged, well presented with time allowed for discussion. Key points were the triggers I required and hoped for. Betty inspires by knowledge and example."

    Writing NSW: feedback from workshops

  • "Betty is a wonderful teacher and her practical examples from her own work were excellent in demonstrating her points."

    Society of Australian Genealogy: feedback from workshops

  • "Just a massive thank you to Betty for her generosity in sharing her skills and expertise and inspiring us all to think about family history writing in different and exciting ways."

    Society of Australian Genealogy: feedback from workshops

  • "Betty is an amazing presenter, her credentials are obviously second to none, and the content was top notch. I loved the mix between straight presentation, break out groups and discussions and resources. I feel privileged to have been able to participate."

    Society of Australian Genealogy: feedback from workshops

  • "It got me excited and motivated again about a project I have been working on for years."

    Society of Australian Genealogy: feedback from workshops

Writing Retreat Testimonials

  • "The Writing in Paradise retreat was a smorgasbord of wonder for me. From the small details, I felt well cared for and could relax immediately. The opening ceremony gave beautiful respect and honour to the traditions of the people of Bali and opened a great space to focus on the work (and pleasure) of writing. The structure of the retreat was held with gentle commitment by Betty and Steve and I valued the workshops for the clarity of information and the quality of teaching. There was always something to be learnt, and connection with other participants about the writing as a part of group check ins and socially over dinner was delightful. I particularly valued Betty’s insights and one to one mentoring which she offered with generosity, skill and wisdom. I feel very blessed to have had this opportunity and made good progress with my long dreamed of book"

    Katherine Howard, Mental Health professional, Sydney

  • "I've greatly enjoyed the 7-day 8 night writing retreat in Bali run by Betty O'Neill and Steve Castley. The afternoon workshops and regular check-ins re our writing, the generative writing together and later in the week, the opportunities to share our writing really fostered and encouraged us as writers. Our small group had time to write together, to share our writing, to get to know each other, and also to retreat to our villa and write or have Balinese massages on-site or explore or whatever we wanted to do! Steve has made Bali his home and having him as Villa manager and cultural interpreter has been invaluable. The wrap-around services including airport transfers with Steve's drivers and much TLC provided, a big bonus. Thank you, Betty and Steve, this inaugural writing retreat in Paradise greatly exceeded my expectations"

    Moira Nolan, Coffs Harbour

  • “The "Writing in Paradise" course was exactly what I needed to transform my travel blog writing into a book worth reading. Betty and Steve made the course very informative and interactive. A group of eight people was perfect to give everyone a chance to express their thoughts, share their writing and any concerns they had about their skills and to learn how to progress with their books. Bali was the perfect place to do this. A big Thank you”

    Teresa McCarthy, Perth