PoetiCas has been hosting regular poetry gatherings in Castlemaine since 2015, following on the tradition of Ross Donlon's poetry readings in the decade prior. It has grown into a wonderful community and their monthly events are beloved by many.

The usual format brings a feature reader to share their work, as well as an open section for the community to share their own original poems in a warm and supportive space, lovingly MC'd by local poet and publisher Tegan Gigante. All are welcome to attend, to read or just to listen.

Brendan Ryan lives in Geelong and he is the author of eight poetry collections. His poetry, reviews and essays have been widely published in literary journals and newspapers. His poems have been shortlisted for the Peter Porter Poetry Prize, the Newcastle Poetry Prize, the ACU Poetry Prize and his collection, Travelling Through the Family was shortlisted for the 2014 Victorian Premier's Prize. His memoir, Walk Like a Cow, was published in 2020 by Walleah Press. What it Feels Like: New and Selected Poems, was published by Recent Work Press in June 2025.

Open Section as usual, 3 minutes per reader.
$5 donation on the door much appreciated.
All Welcome!

So buy a drink from the bar and join us at The Coolroom at the Northern Arts Hotel, the new home for PoetiCas.
Contact: poeticaspoeticas@outlook.com

COST: $5 donation at door appreciated