Literary magic in the hinterland: Writers Fest promises workshops, stories and inspiration

From left, Sunshine Coast Foodie Martin Duncan, event coordinators Tracey Young and Lea Dodd, Rhonda Billett from I am Nambour, crime writer Georgia Harper and children’s author Karen McKinley. 

The Sunshine Coast Hinterland Writers Festival (SCHWF) is gearing up to be a vibrant literary celebration this October, running from the 11th to the 13th. With venues spanning Nambour and Maleny, the festival will offer an eclectic mix of events including author panels, workshops, book signings, and more, making it a must-attend event for literature lovers across the region.

Kicking off the festival on Friday, October 11, is a spectacular launch party from 6:30pm to 8:30pm at TramCo in Nambour. This fantasy-themed event will bring together renowned authors, Stacey McEwan and A.K. Mulford, who will be mingling with fans, signing books, and sharing insights into their work. Attendees can expect a lively atmosphere complete with a grazing table, live entertainment, and a complimentary glass of champagne to start the weekend in style.

Over the following two days, a diverse range of sessions will be held, focusing on various genres and topics. In Maleny, literary discussions on historical fiction and crime writing will take place at the Maleny Community Centre, while workshops on memoir writing and self-publishing will cater to aspiring authors. The Nambour Library Forecourt will host a vibrant book market, providing a perfect opportunity for readers to discover new titles and support local authors.  This market has proved so popular for Indie Authors also, so we are in talks to run this market permanently in Nambour 2-3 times per year in moving forward.

For younger festival-goers, SCHWF is offering engaging children’s writing workshops, allowing budding writers to develop their skills and creativity. Storytime sessions will also be held, providing families with a chance to immerse themselves in the magic of storytelling.

This year’s festival promises something for everyone, whether you’re an established writer, a passionate reader, or simply someone curious about the world of literature. With a focus on celebrating the craft of writing and encouraging creativity, the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Writers Festival is set to be a memorable weekend.  

The team are already in talks for the 2025 Sunshine Coast Hinterland Writers Festival that will be on October 10, 11 and 12 and the team hope to run the project from Maleny to Nambour again, whilst expanding into other hinterland regions such as Eumundi

• For more information, including how to register for workshops and ticketing, visit www.iamnambour.com.au/sunshine-coast-hinterland-writers-festival