Whitsundays Writers Festival announces 2026 program

Whitsundays Writers Festival has announced the program for its one-day event, to be held on 13 September 2026.

Festival director Richard Evans said the 2026 program elevates local storytelling.

“This year’s festival is about backing our region’s writers and stories, and the Whitsunday’s creative identity,” said Evans. “We’re building something that is proudly local. The quality of writers living in the Greater Whitsunday region is exceptional, and our program promotes their work.”

Events include the From the Heart keynote delivered by author Rachel Armstrong; panel discussions exploring writing and creativity, featuring local authors AL Tippett, Greg Bourke, Rachael Smith, Krissy Regan, Gary Wood and Veronica Lando; and the closing event, Stories by the Sea, which brings together more than 20 regional authors for book sales, swaps, readings and live music.

“Stories by the Sea is where the festival really comes alive as a community experience – people connecting over books, ideas, and shared stories.” Evans said. “Plus a banger BBQ.”

The festival will also present the Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards, “celebrating emerging and established voices in short story and poetry”, with live readings and winner announcements.

More information is available on the festival website.

Category: Festivals Local news