Hinterland Writers Festival returns for 2025
The hinterland is set to come alive again with the magic of storytelling as the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Writers Festival (SCHWF) returns across the long weekend of Saturday, May 3, to Monday, May 5, 2025.
With the theme “Connecting Hearts, Minds, and Nature through the Power of Words,” the festival promises an inspiring literary experience for book lovers, writers and creative minds from across Australia.
Festival Artistic Director Lea Dodd is curating an exciting lineup of author talks, panel discussions, workshops, and interactive storytelling sessions for children, all designed to ignite imaginations and foster deep connections through the written word.
Whether you are a budding writer, an avid reader or a literary enthusiast, there will be something for everyone across a diverse mix of genres.
Event manager, Tracey Young says, “For its second year, we are excited that the festival’s main program will be centred at the Maleny Showgrounds.”
“Special catered events and a selection of workshops and free activities will also be on offer across the hinterland towns of Maleny, Montville, Mapleton and Nambour, scheduled to ensure attendees have plenty of opportunities to learn, relax, and explore the stunning hinterland region.”
The 2025 festival is already shaping up to be an unmissable event, acclaimed authors Rachael Johns, Josephine Moon and Fleur McDonald confirmed to appear, with the festival website constantly being updated with attending authors.
“We are thrilled to build on the success of our first festival and bring together even more voices, stories, and literary experiences in 2025,” Ms Dodd says.
“The festival’s inaugural event in 2024 was a resounding success, attracting over 100 authors and 1,200 attendees to its innovative literary trail across the hinterland, showcasing a vibrant literary community.”
This year’s expansion, along with the dedication of a passionate team of volunteers, positions the festival for even greater reach and impact.
• Early bird tickets have been released on the festival website and are available until February 28. For more information and updates, visit www.schwritersfestival.com.au
Josephine Moon
Rachael Johns
Fleur McDonald