Words Out West: Western Downs Readers & Writers Fest will champion storytelling during February and March 2024, with an impressive slate of events for word-lovers in the Western Downs and beyond.
The award-winning Festival promises the same high standard of speakers, with 11 events and experiences for all ages and interests across the region.
Councillor Kaye Maguire, Council Spokesperson for Community and Cultural Development said Words Out West was fast making its mark on Australia's literary events calendar.
"Words Out West is a fan-favourite festival, and it's easy to see why – it's a one-of-a-kind blend of stellar storytellers, unique events and intimate crowd sizes that you'll be hard-pressed to find anywhere else," she said.
"In 2024 we're thrilled to deliver a suite of wording-events featuring some of the country's most exciting storytelling personalities; including kingpin crime novelist Michael Robotham, writer and comedian Wendy Harmer, Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone's Benjamin Stevenson, bestselling children's author Jacqueline Harvey and Play School favourite Lucas Proudfoot.
"Given his astounding reception last year, it was a no-brainer to also bring back actor and author William McInnes — this time heading up our popular Schooners & Stories event in Chinchilla. With a new book just released, there's no doubt his signature side-splitting anecdotes will leave attendees in fits of laughter once again.
"Our sell-out Writers Workshops will also be returning in 2024, with tips and tricks on memoir writing and nailing the first chapter."
Words Out West has solidified itself as a premier destination event for the region, with 2,750 people taking part in last year's Festival alone.
Cr Maguire said the 2024 Festival was fitting for a fifth anniversary bash.
"We're five years into delivering a novel approach to storytelling, and this year is shaping up bigger and better than ever. If you haven't experienced Words Out West before, now is the time to get involved," she said.
"I'd also encourage any budding writers to enter our annual Short Story Competition, which due to popular demand, is now open to adults and youth. This year's theme of Horizons will certainly give our judges some enthralling reads."
Words Out West Events Calendar at a Glance
School Days
Wednesday 28 and Thursday 29 February
Chinchilla and Dalby
Schooners & Stories: An Evening with William McInnes
Saturday 2 March
Chinchilla RSL Memorial Club, Chinchilla
Books & Bubbles: With Wendy Harmer
Friday 8 March
Dalby Events Centre
Festival Day
Saturday 9 March
Dalby Events Centre
Writers Workshop
Sunday 10 March
Dalby Events Centre
Author Tour: In Conversation with Nikki Mottram
Thursday 21 and Friday 22 March
Wandoan, Chinchilla, Jandowae and Dalby
