Award-Winning Author Rachel Armstrong To Headline Festival

Award-winning author Rachel Armstrong will headline the 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival on Sunday 13th September, bringing audiences a rare chance to hear from a writer at the top of her game, fresh from a national award win.

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Rachel’s appearance comes hot on the heels of major recognition for her latest novel, Island Bite. The second book in her Wolf Shifters of Magnetic Island series was named the 2026 Speculative Fiction Romantic Book of the Year by Romance Writers of Australia at its awards in Darwin in August.

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The award recognises Armstrong’s ability to combine romance, fantasy and the distinctive atmosphere of North Queensland in a story that has captured readers’ imaginations.

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At the festival, Rachel will deliver the From the Heart keynote, giving audiences the opportunity to hear how a story goes from an idea to international acclaim, what her writing process looks like and where her North Queensland-set stories come from.

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“Having Rachel join us immediately after winning another Romantic Book of the Year is a real coup for the Festival,” said Festival President and Programme Director Richard Evans.

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“Her success is also a wonderful example of the depth of Australian writing talent and the kinds of stories that can come from our own region.”

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Across the day, audiences can enjoy live author conversations on publishing and finding story ideas, the presentation of the 2026 Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards, readings from winning works and regional author markets. The program also includes live entertainment, working artists, refreshments, a sausage sizzle, prizes and raffles.

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“We wanted this year’s programme to be about the stories behind the stories,” Richard said.

“Where ideas come from, how writers develop their craft, and what it takes to bring a book into the world.”

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From 3pm, the festival opens to everyone with Stories by the Sea, a free afternoon celebration featuring more than 20 regional authors, book stalls, readings, live music, art, children’s activities and a community book swap. No ticket is required.

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Bookings for the main program are strong, with the day expected to reach capacity. Secure your seat through the festival website to guarantee your place.

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Stories by the Sea is free and open to everyone from 3pm, with no booking required.

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What: Whitsundays Writers Festival
When: 10.30am for an 11am–4.30pm program, Sunday 13th September 2026
Free community event: Stories by the Sea, 3pm–4.30pm
Where: Whitsunday Marine Club, Cannonvale

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