WERD Network

Frequently Asked Questions

Why the unusual business name?

Our approach to anything is always to try to find a bright side or humorous way to engage. The use of the name "WERD" spelled with an 'e' instead of an 'o' is a playful form of poetic licence that we hope might foster curiosity around the importance (or otherwise) of accurate spelling. The inability to spell a word accurately is often a barrier for writers in using the most appropriate word. (Sue has a journal article you may like to read that discusses this issue around spelling and vocabulary development in the August 2023 e
dition of Practical Literacy: the Ear ly and Primary Years).

The other aspect of why we chose to call ourselves WERD network is a nod to identity development. When readers see the name WERD in print, our brains often recognise it as 'WEIRD' because the two are so similar. The 'I' within weird is added in our brains as this is a familiar word. Embracing our own personalities and recognising that there are times when we all feel a bit 'weird' is a great step in recognising that there are communities of like-minded people out there that are likely to appreciate how easy it is at times to feel like we don't belong.

Life is too short not to laugh at trivialities and common challenges! Being transparent about the complexities we encounter in life, and finding a way to switch these into opportunities for solidarity, growth and showcasing our individuality is productive. Humour is a great way to engage with a difficult idea or experience, and it often helps us find a better way to understand or resolve an issue.

How do I know that your events are safe?

We have great experience in implementing safe events as a result of decades of in- and out-of-school as well as corporate experience. We value personal space, privacy in relation to intellectual capital, personal privacy and healthy living.

Liberties with these values will not be tolerated. The provision of safe spaces where everyone feels included and comfortable to take responsible risks with their writing and writerly development is of the utmost importance. This is culturally inclusive and as such, we respect differences in ways of being that include issues around spirituality, customs, religion, background, allergies/intolerances and personal needs.

We assure that events are always wholesome, productive and enjoyable, irrespective of who you are. We cater to individual needs and ways that relaxation and reinvigoration might take place. This includes policies around personal space, not sharing information, allergies and medications, moderation of alcohol, substance-free behaviours and understandings around noise and routines.

Where do WERD Network events take place?

We offer a range of locations for our events, according to client needs. Some events are hybrid (face-to-face AND online), some are face-to-face only and others are online-only.

Some of our most popular offerings include:

Outdoor cafes
Outdoors in parkland settings
Riverside and beachside apartments with withdrawal spaces in Carrum, Victoria
The Victorian State Library
Co-located near a community event that we are actively involved in
At your own location (home, office, school)

Please email Sue@WERDNetwork.com.au if you have any suggestions or requests.

What events might come up in the future?

We are always thinking about our next event! We have plans to rotate the following event types on a regular basis, as they have proven over previous years to be highly successful:

Camping retreat
Luxury retreat
Budget retreat
Retreats of varying lengths - ranging from single days through to week-long events
Professional development sessions.
Consultancy offerings of one-on-one or small group mentoring
Retreats and/or writing days that align with other events, such as conferences, festivals and/or community contributions (such as Relay for Life and/or Clean Up Australia Day)
Celebratory events, such as our event hosted annually on RUOK day in September
Events that coincide with weekends and/or school holidays so attendees attend in person without having to worry about work commitments

Please email Sue@WERDNetwork.com.au if you have any suggestions or requests.

What do I need to know about food & drink at WERD Network events?

WERD Network is categorised as a class four food business. This is in accordance with various Council food safety requirements.

All staff are trained in food handling procedures in accordance with the food handling requirements to a minimum of class four. However, we meet class two requirements in acknowledgement of the importance and benefits to our clients in relation to exceeding council requirements.

Our Food Safety Program and Policy documents are on display at our headquarters and are also available upon request. These documents include (but are not limited to) procedures for supporting people with anaphylaxis, allergies and intolerances, support for clients requiring medications, moderation of alcohol, and our expectations about substance-free behaviours.

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