Dion Crooks
Writing that's read, on any subject. Plus editing, communications/public relations. Tutoring in writing, grammar, public speaking, communications /public relations, reading.
Can work outside local area? Yes—Available to work anywhere in the world, subject to agreement on travel.
Media Experience
Print; Web; Radio
Biographical Note
"The most important thing about anything written is that somebody reads it." That basic philosophy is at the heart of Dion Crooks' easy-to-read writing style and his seminars on writing, grammar, public speaking and communications/public relations skills.Readability is backed by research skills honed in studying for an honours degree in English, and people skills developed over more than 30 years as a professional schoolteacher, journalist, writer and communications/public relations consultant.
As well as the ability write and speak, he has no problems in relating to people of all manner of backgrounds, jobs, families, natures, interests and cultures.
During 20 years as a self-employed writer, he has:
- written for, edited and published newspapers and magazines, including: Metropol lifestyle magazine-style newspaper; Auckland Today, Canterbury Today and Wellington Today business newspapers; Leisure Times hospitality newspaper; Principals Today education newspaper; Bits & Bytes personal computer magazine; Southerner and Canterbury Farmer rural newspapers);
- written five histories for organisations;
- been an editor for a book author;
- written special letters for clients;
- written and produced direct mailers;
- written sponsorship proposals (and managed sponsorships);
- written and produced brochures;
- written business profiles;
- developed communications and public relations strategies;
- carried out commissioned public relations work.
He has extended this wide array of communications skills into training, developing and tutoring seminars in:
- writing skills;
- grammar;
- editing and proofreading;
- public speaking;
- communications and public relations skills;
- advanced reading skills.
Dion Crooks' previous journalistic work included positions as:
- sub-editor, The Press daily newspaper, Christchurch;
- deputy-editor of Weekend Star sports and weekend newspaper, Christchurch;
- chief reporter, Evening Star daily newspaper, Dunedin;
- editor of Morrinsville Star community newspaper, Morrinsville;
- assistant information officer, Commonwealth Games, Christchurch;
- sports editor, Taranaki Herald daily newspaper, New Plymouth;
- sports writer, Waikato Times daily newspaper, Hamilton;
- reporter, Waikato Times daily newspaper, Hamilton.
His other experience includes: secondary school teaching; farmwork; building and construction; fencing; roading; rubbish collection; tussock grubbing.
Published Writing
History: New Zealand Dietetic Association, 1993
100 Years: Canterbury Lawn Tennis Association, 1990
100 Years: A Record of the Richmond Working Men's Club's History, 1988
One Hundred Years of Green and Black: Linwood Rugby Football Club, 1986
Cora & Co: The First Half Century of New Zealand Youth Hostelling, 1982
Contact Details
PO Box 19-593, Christchurch, New Zealand.
Phone: 64 3 3843190 Fax: 64 3 3843190 Mobile: 64 21 324324
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