The Whitsundays Writers Festival is gearing for a grand comeback, with a schedule jampacked full of immersive celebrations of all things literary.
On the cards is esteemed 2023 Miles Franklin Literary Award winner, Shankari Chandran, winner of Australia’s premier literary prize for her debut novel, ‘Chai Time at Cinnamon Gardens’.
Alongside Shankari are several other highly regarded, award-winning Australian authors, who are excited to be in sunny Whitsundays for a weekend of literary prowess.
Karen Jacobsen, the Festival President, expressed her excitement, stating, “It's not often we have the opportunity to meet renowned national and international writers. This will be a landmark event for the Whitsundays and a golden opportunity for regional Queensland to add a substantial literary gem to its arts calendar.”
Alongside the schedule of workshops, talks, and luncheons, the weekend will also include the prestigious Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards. The Heart Awards provide well-deserved recognition and financial rewards to talented writers for best unpublished manuscript, short story, poetry, and book design. Submissions for the Heart Awards open February 14.
“This event will bring together creative minds in the picturesque setting of the Whitsundays. What better place to immerse yourself in the brilliance of Australian literature?” remarked Karen.
“I strongly advise securing your place at the festival and booking accommodation early to fully enjoy the wonders of the Whitsundays while indulging in the myriad of events the festival has to offer.”
Save The Date!
WHAT: Whitsunday Writers Festival
WHEN: Friday, September 6 to Sunday September 8
Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards
Submissions Open February 14
Shankari Chandran confirmed to star in September’s Whitsundays Writers Festival. Photo supplied
