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Director of the festival, Richard Evans, and Treasurer and Operations Manager, Dr Julia Evans. Photo credit: Mackay and Whitsunday Life
The Whitsunday Writer’s Festival has unveiled its full programme for Sunday 13th September 2026.
Running from 11am to 4.30pm, the one-day festival will bring together leading regional writers for a dynamic programme of keynote speakers, panel discussions, award presentations and community spirit.
Festival director Richard Evans said the 2026 programme reflects a clear vision to elevate local storytelling.
“This year’s festival is about backing our region’s writers and stories, and the Whitsunday’s creative identity,” Mr Evans said.
“We’re building something that is proudly local. The quality of writers living in the Greater Whitsunday region is exceptional, and our programme wishes to promote their work.”
The 2026 From the Heart keynote will be delivered by Rachel Armstrong, a multi-award-winning and internationally recognised romance author, honoured for her sustained contribution to Australian literature.
“From the Heart is about giving award-winning writers a platform to speak their bigger picture and how stories shape who we are, both individually and collectively,” Mr Evans said.
There will be two panel discussions. One will explore the writing journey – from idea to publication, and the other will look at focus on the creative spark behind storytelling. These panel discussions will feature local authors A. L. Tippett, Greg Bourke, Krissy Regan, Gary Wood, Veronica Lando and Life Publishing’s very own Rachael Smith.
Closing the day is a free community event – Stories by the Sea – bringing together more than 20 regional authors for book sales, swaps, readings, and live music in a relaxed coastal setting.
“Stories by the Sea is where the festival really comes alive as a community experience – people connecting over books, ideas, and shared stories,” Mr Evans said.
Full day tickets and session tickets are now available through the festival’s website.
“Ensuring the festival is accessible to our community has been a priority, while still delivering a high-quality experience for audiences,” Mr Evans said.
“Whether you’re a reader, an aspiring writer, or simply curious, there’s something here for you.”
Entries have also been opened for the 2026 Whitsunday Literary Heart Awards, a national celebration of Australian literature and creative excellence. The categories are as follows:
Short Story Award (Open Age & Under 18 Divisions)
Writers are invited to submit unpublished creative fiction of up to 3,000 words.
Poetry Prize
Open to unpublished poems of up to 50 lines, judged on originality, creativity, and expression.
Entries are welcomed from writers across Australia, with winners to be announced at the Whitsundays Writers Festival on Sunday 13th September 2026.
“These awards are a meaningful investment in Australian storytelling,” Mr Evans said.
“They celebrate not just finished work, but the courage it takes to put your words out into the world.”
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