Readers and Writers Fest set to inspire the region's bibliophiles

Published on 03 March 2023

Lisa Curry.jpg

Excitement is building for the Western Downs' fourth annual Words Out West Readers and Writers Festival, with the keynote events, Books & Bubbles, and Festival Day, only one month away. 

The award-winning festival will be taking a novel approach to storytelling throughout the month of March, with the return of author tours, school days, writers retreat, and Schooners and Stories, culminating in the immensely popular Books & Bubbles Gala and Festival Day events at end of the month. 

Council Spokesperson for Community and Cultural Development Councillor Kaye Maguire said this year's festival was shaping up to be a huge event, with an exciting calendar of events and workshops being held from the 1st to the 29th of March. 

"Over the past three years the Words Out West: Readers and Writers Festival has proven itself to be a not-to-be-missed event - it's a unique opportunity to rub shoulders with some of the best writers, speakers and illustrators in the business right here in the Western Downs," Cr Maguire said. 

"We have an incredible literary line-up this year, including triple-Olympian Lisa Curry, actor and author William McInnes, acclaimed children's writer and former Australian Children's Laureate Morris Gleitzman, rugby league super-star Brent Tate, and so many more. 

"I'm particularly looking forward to hearing Saroo Brierley speak at the Books & Bubbles gala event on the 24th of March.  

“His incredible story of hope and courage while searching for his birth family is as moving as it is inspiring. This will be a rare and wonderful opportunity to hear the story that inspired the 2016 movie Lion, starring Nicole Kidman and Dev Patel, from the person who lived it. 

"The main Festival Day kicks off in only one month's time on the 25th of March at the Dalby Events Centre. As always, attendees can expect a huge day of keynote speakers and panel discussions that are sure to inspire curiosity and celebrate modern Australian storytelling in all its forms. 

The Writers Retreat kicks off the following day, which will be an incredible opportunity for aspiring writers to refine their skills in a day-long workshop with author Vicki Bennett. This year's festival also sees a youth short-story writing workshop introduced to the line-up, hosted by Susan Mackie 

"Other unmissable events to mark in your calendar are Schooners and Stories with NRL legend Brent Tate in Wandoan and Kaimkillenbun, the region-wide author tour with Rachael Johns, and the ever-popular School Days events, which encourage curiosity and creativity in our region's children. 

"Words Out West is a unique and wonderful opportunity to spark the creativity of our residents, whilst also showcasing our active, vibrant communities, and generating an economic boost for the region. 

"Tickets for Words Out West events are still available but are selling fast. I encourage locals and visitors head to the Words Out West website to learn more about all of the events and speakers, and book tickets."  

To find out more and to book your tickets to Words Out West: Readers and Writers Festival, visit www.wordsoutwest.info  

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