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Sydney Writer’s Festival will be live streamed into libraries across the Whitsundays. Photo source: Facebook
Sydney Writer’s Festival is not limited by geography. The ‘Live and Local’ program facilitated by Whitsunday Regional Council is ensuring that this highly anticipated event can be enjoyed by the literary enthusiasts of the Whitsunday – without even having to book a flight ticket.
The festival is set to be live streamed from Sydney to Whitsunday libraries, bringing big conversations and bold ideas directly to the community.
“Events like the writers festivals create opportunities for people to engage with ideas, stories and perspectives beyond their everyday experience,” said a library spokesperson.
“For regional communities, access to live streamed sessions remove barriers such as distance and cost, ensuring everyone can be part of meaningful literary conversations. It also helps to foster a love of reading, writing and lifelong learning, all of which libraries proudly champion.”
The festival stream will begin on Thursday 21st May at 2pm, with a talk from Stephaine Alexander, a renowned restaurateur, cook and food writer, who will be arriving via live stream to discuss her book ‘The Cook’s Companion’.
On Friday 22nd May at 12pm, American novelist and previous recipient of the National Book Award for Fiction Susan Choi will be tuning in to discuss her latest novel ‘Flashlight’, which was shortlisted for the 2025 Booker Prize.
At 2pm on the same day, Australia’s own literary legend Trent Dalton will be speaking. Both a novelist and journalist, Dalton has sold millions of copies through books such as Boy Swallows Universe and Gravity Let Me Go. He has been recipient of the Walkley Award, Australian Book Industry Award, Indie Book Award and Queensland Literary Award.
A spokesperson shared:
“Libraries are passionate about connecting communities with stories, ideas and each other. We’re particularly excited to bring high quality, free events to our region and to give our community the chance to hear directly from celebrated authors and thinkers.
“It’s also a great lead-in to the Whitsunday Writers Festival in September, which highlights local voices and creativity, continuing the celebration of storytelling, local authors, and literary connections across our community.”
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