CARLA SALMON

The Perfect Crime

Years 5-8

Carla brings her CRIME formula to life with autobiographical anecdotes and clips from her own research, writing and editing processes.

Participants will learn how to increase reader engagement, create suspense and heighten tension in their own writing by:

C – Clashing elements for impact
R – Reaching into real life
I – Investing in the characters
M – Mining news stories
E – Elevating with feedback

The Perfect Crime

Years 9-11

Carla brings her CRIME formula to life with autobiographical anecdotes and clips from her own research, writing and editing processes.

Participants will learn how to increase reader engagement, create suspense and heighten tension in their own writing by:

C – Clashing elements for impact
R – Reaching into real life
I – Investing in the characters
M – Mining news stories
E – Elevating with feedback

We Saw What You Started

Years 5-8

Want to learn how a 20,000 word draft was transformed into a 70,000 word mystery thriller for young teens… in just 12 months? Take a deep dive into Carla’s debut novel that was shortlisted for the 2026 CBCA’s Book of the Year, with a focus on key themes and developing authentic teen voices. Filled with anecdotes from Carla’s country coastal childhood that inspired the book – including that time her friend snuck out of the surf club dorms – this talk is designed to be entertaining and inspiring with takeaway writing skills.

We Saw What You Started

Years 9-11

Want to learn how a 20,000 word draft was transformed into a 70,000 word mystery thriller for young teens… in just 12 months? Take a deep dive into Carla’s debut novel that was shortlisted for the 2026 CBCA’s Book of the Year, with a focus on key themes and developing authentic teen voices. Filled with anecdotes from Carla’s country coastal childhood that inspired the book – including that time her friend snuck out of the surf club dorms – this talk is designed to be entertaining and inspiring with takeaway writing skills.

Write it Right

Years 5-8

From ideation to editing, each stage of the writing process contains different skills and ways of thinking. Carla will share insights from her own writing practice, using anecdotes and real examples to demonstrate how these techniques work beyond the classroom. Participants will engage in hands-on activities designed to build confidence and skill to create memorable characters, crafting immersive worlds for action and using language that keeps readers turning the page.

Write it Right

Years 9-11

From ideation to editing, each stage of the writing process contains different skills and ways of thinking. Carla will share insights from her own writing practice, using anecdotes and real examples to demonstrate how these techniques work beyond the classroom. Participants will engage in hands-on activities designed to build confidence and skill to create memorable characters, crafting immersive worlds for action and using language that keeps readers turning the page.

Own Your Story

Years 9-11

In an age of digital technology and social media, there has never been a more crucial time for students to nurture and protect their public image by taking charge of their personal stories. Drawing on 20+ years in public relations, marketing, pastoral leadership in schools, teaching and writing, Carla offers her expertise in personal brand management. Students will learn skills to network, manage their online identity and communicate more effectively with personal stories.