Last week, the Whitsunday Voices Youth Literature Festival celebrated its 21st year with a vibrant launch, immersive school activities, and a memorable keynote presentation, all encompassing the power of stories and the importance of regional voices in Australia’s literary landscape.
The festival officially opened on Wednesday night at Whitsunday Anglican School, with Principal Andrew Wheaton welcoming guests and reflecting on the significance of the event for country and regional students.
“Tonight represents the opening of the 21st Whitsunday Voices Youth Literature Festival… with 17 outstanding authors and illustrators contributing on the world stage,” Mr Wheaton said.
“It throws students back into the great world of being immersed within a story.”
He also acknowledged the vital role of the community in making the festival possible, crediting the tremendous support of 53 local businesses and many volunteers in the Mackay and Whitsunday community.
Throughout the day on Thursday and Friday, more than 9,000 students from over 80 schools across a region spanning 100,000 square kilometres participated in workshops, author talks, and interactive sessions, seizing an extraordinary opportunity to engage directly with some of Australia’s most celebrated authors and artists.
A representative from Whitsunday Anglican School described the festival’s first day as “epic.”
“From book signings to belly laughs and lightbulb moments – the energy was off the charts!
“We loved seeing students getting stuck into workshops and sessions, asking brilliant questions, and soaking up every second of the Festival fun.”
“Day 1 of Whitsunday Voices was absolutely buzzing with energy, creativity, and excitement!
“From the moment the buses rolled in, the Festival came alive with enthusiastic students, passionate presenters, and a whole lot of literary magic.”
The second day continued the momentum, bursting with creativity, laughter and inspiration as students dived into storytelling, poetry, illustration, and big ideas. The festival’s diverse program allowed students to explore multiple facets of literature, from graphic novels and picture books to slam poetry and storytelling workshops.
“Our incredible guests kept the crowds hooked – sharing their journeys, sparking conversations, and reminding us all of the power of words,” the festival team said.
“Huge thanks to our visiting schools, speakers, sponsors, and Purple Army volunteers for making it another unforgettable day.”
On Friday evening, the festival’s highlight was the DBI Literary Dinner featuring keynote speaker Nedd Brockmann, the Australian legend whose epic 4,000-kilometre run across the country raised millions to fight homelessness. Fresh off the success of his Netflix documentary RUNN, Brockmann captivated the sold-out crowd with an honest, humorous, and heartfelt presentation. His story of grit, passion, and purpose inspired attendees and reinforced the festival’s theme of empowerment through storytelling.
Festival Manager Liz Russell reflected on the unique power of hearing stories directly from their creators.
“There’s something truly special about hearing a story straight from its creator. The Festival encourages students to explore where literature can take them – creatively, emotionally and even professionally.”
“This year’s program is bursting with talent. We’ve gathered some of Australia’s most celebrated authors and illustrators to share their stories, ideas and passion with our young readers.”
Among the star-studded lineup were international best-selling authors Amie Kaufman and Katherine Battersby, local silk artist and author Kim Michelle Toft, award-winning STEAM author Cristy Burne, the dynamic Bin Chicken series writers Kate and Jol Temple, and Chicago-born slam poetry master Miles Merrill.
Katherine Battersby, a Mackay-born author and illustrator, spoke of the personal significance of returning to her old school to ignite a new generation’s imagination.
“It’s very special to come back into the classrooms I learned in and share my passion for art and literature,” she said.
“This is my old school, so being here again is truly close to my heart.”
Battersby highlighted her popular graphic novel series Cranky Chicken, designed to support reluctant readers transitioning to chapter books.
Miles Merrill, founder of the Australian Poetry Slam, inspired students with his spoken word performances and workshops.
“I enjoy inspiring people… creating spaces where others can share their poems and stories,” Merrill said.
“We are experts in our own experience. Start there and expand outward.”
He encouraged young writers to find inspiration in everyday life.
The festival also featured two book launches, including a new “choose-your-own-adventure” novel by George Ivanoff and Amy Doak’s third book in the award-winning Eleanor Jones series, Eleanor Jones is Playing With Fire.
The event went beyond literature, incorporating live student musicians, Eat Street food stalls, a roaming puppeteer, a chess puzzle challenge, and storytelling sessions, all designed to engage and entertain the community.
Reflecting on the festival’s mission in a world dominated by digital distractions, Principal Wheaton remarked, “This festival is more than a program of events. It’s a movement.
“Regional Australia isn’t waiting for opportunity to come to us – we’re creating it.”
Mr Wheaton emphasised the festival’s unique role in providing rural and regional students with rare access to world-class creative talent.
“We’re proud to be a school that does such amazing things for the region.”
“To be able to be part of this journey, which started 21 years ago, and to continue it with such tremendous community support, is truly special.”
The festival’s success was attributed to a vast network of local support, with more than 150 student volunteers, dedicated staff, and the invaluable contribution of sponsors such as Whitehaven, BHP BMA, and the Winchester Foundation.
Mr Wheaton extended gratitude to all those who helped bring the festival to life, from teachers and IT staff to the facilities team and the “beloved Purple Army” volunteers who often give up to three full days to ensure smooth operations.
As the curtain fell on another inspiring year, the festival left a lasting legacy – one of creativity, community, and the enduring magic of stories passed from one generation to the next.
Last week, the 21st Whitsunday Voices Youth Literature Festival brought together over 9,000 students, 17 acclaimed authors and illustrators, and a passionate community to celebrate the power of storytelling and the importance of regional voices in inspiring the next generation. Photo source: Whitsunday Voices Youth Literature Festival and Hannah McNamara
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