Writers, readers and booklovers of all ages, get ready for the first Bundaberg Writers’ Festival, coming to Bundaberg Civic Centre on Saturday 17 October.
Organised by local writers, the community event will offer a packed program of panel discussions, Q&As, book sales and book signings.
Organiser Trevor Hodges said the festival aimed to support local writers, bookshops, Bundaberg Library and writing and reading in general.
“We’re aiming to put the best of local and Queensland writing in front of the Bundaberg community,” Trevor said.
“The festival will be running panels and Q&As all day focussing on topics that will be of interest to all writers, aspiring writers and readers.
“There will also be a book fair held in the main auditorium where those attending can buy a book, get a book signed or discover their next favourite writer.”
Trevor said aspiring authors were encouraged to come along to the panel discussion on getting published and to chat with local authors about their experiences.
“We have a range of activities planned but perhaps the biggest highlight is the attendance of renowned Australian writer Monica McInerney who will be available to answer questions and sign copies of her new book ‘When Sullivan Met Lola’,” Trevor said.
“We also wanted to promote the fantastic writing of local Wide Bay writers and allow the public to see what great talent exists in the local community.
“There will be dozens of writers in attendance so come along and talk to them about their books, your own writing or your reading.
“Come along, buy a donut and a coffee and discover a writer you didn’t know about.
“We think it’s going to be an absolute cracking day.”
Bundaberg Regional Council has supported the event as part of its Safe Spaces, Thriving Places initiative by assisting with venue arrangements and event logistics.
Mayor Helen Blackburn said events led by local businesses were an important driver for revitalising Bundaberg’s CBD.
“Well done to the three local businesses, the Book Boutique, the Floral Chapter and Elliotts Bookshop, who have come together to organise the festival,” Mayor Blackburn said.
“After a difficult year when they were affected by flooding and other challenges, it is inspiring to see their resilience and perseverance.”
Doors will open for VIP ticket holders from 8.30 am, with free access to the general public from 10 am.
A VIP ticket is required for Monica McInerney’s writer’s talk and is available on Bundaberg Writers’ Festival website.
Bundaberg Writers’ Festival
Where: Bundaberg Civic Centre, 190 Bourbong Street
When: Saturday 17 October
Time: VIP ticket holders from 8.30 am. General public from 10 am to 3 pm.
Cost: VIP tickets are $25. General entry to the festival is free after 10 am.
