Get Your Pens Ready For The Whitsundays Writers Festival!

After a seven-year hiatus, the Whitsundays Writers Festival returns in 2024, Friday 6 to Sunday 8 September in Airlie Beach.
A stellar line up of Australian literary figures are confirmed, along with local regional writers, in a program of author keynotes, conversations, and workshops.
The writer’s festival kicks off next Thursday with the Love Letter to Queensland event, which is from 6:30-9pm. The evening will feature a stimulating lineup of notable speakers, each presenting their own love letters to Queensland and offering a diverse array of perspectives and experiences.
Guest speakers include:
   • Marco Renai who was awarded 2024 Queenslander of the Year for his impactful work with at-risk young men.
   • Elizabeth Hackett who is known for her significant contributions to the tourism industry and the Whitsunday Skyway project.
   • Dr Chris Sarra, CEO of the Office of First Nations Engagement and Innovation, leading initiatives for youth engagement within Queensland.
   •  Dr Melissa Ashley, celebrated academic and award-winning author of historical fiction novels.
   • Andrew Willcox MP Federal Member for Dawson will announce and read the winning Love Letter to Queensland community writing competition entries who will receive shopping vouchers for Adult and Under 12 Divisions.
   • Karen Jacobsen Whitsunday Writers Festival President, international speaker, concert artist and songwriter, author, and the voice behind over a billion GPS and smartphone devices.
On Friday, 6 September, the Whitsunday Sailing Club will transform into a lively event of author keynotes, stimulating sessions, and refreshments, including morning and afternoon tea. The day will end with Poetry Karaoke, featuring light snacks and two drink vouchers. Sessions include topics like storytelling, crime writing, responsible writing, and the impact of AI on creative writing. Attendees can also enjoy poetry readings and share their own verses in a supportive atmosphere.
On Saturday, start with the annual inaugural festival address by renowned author Shankari Chandran, then head over to the Literary Heart Awards, celebrating the diverse talents of the Australian creative community while honouring the Whitsunday Heart Reef.
In the afternoon, enjoy the Big Book Club High Tea with Sally Hepworth and Kirsty Manning, hosted by Karina Kilmore and catered by Rainbow Bakery, renowned for its exquisite High Teas and award-winning sausage rolls.
Other highlights include meet-and-greets, screen adaptations, and insightful talks on fiction writing.
Closing the Festival on Sunday 8 September will be the Local Author Long Lunch, celebrating the writing journeys of some of the festival’s fantastic Featured Local Authors.

At lunch, the following authors will discuss their genres, careers, and links to the Whitsundays:
   • Rachel Armstrong, award-winning North Queensland contemporary romance author.
   • Lorie Brink, Townsville local with an upcoming debut action-adventure novel.
   • Harry Colfer, critical care paramedic and author of a murder-mystery, thrillers, and short stories.
   • A.L. Tippett, urban fantasy writer whose first novel was at twelve, with one featuring Bowen’s Big Mango.
   • Monique Van Tulder, Shute Harbour lifestyle and travel writer spotlighting inspiring women.
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What: Whitsundays Writers Festival
When: 6-8 September 2024
Where: Main venue Whitsunday Sailing Club, Airlie Beach
Registration: Head to www.whitsundayswriters.com to purchase tickets.

Renowned author Shankari Chandran
enjoy the Big Book Club High Tea with Sally Hepworth and Kirsty Manning

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