Stella, in partnership with Campaspe Shire Council, Ripple Fest, and Collins Booksellers, is proud to announce a FREE one-day literary event. Local readers and writers will have the chance to hear directly from Stella Prize listed writers Sofie Laguna and Debra Dank as they discuss their craft in conversation with local moderators Christy O'Brien and Cecile Shanahan.
Writer, journalist, and Echuca local Christy O'Brien will join critically acclaimed novelist Sofie Laguna for the first session. Sofie has written highly successful books for both adults and children, and her 2015 novel The Eye of the Sheep won the Miles Franklin and was shortlisted for the Stella Prize. Sofie's third novel The Choke was shortlisted for the Stella in 2018, and her latest book The Underworld was released to wide acclaim late last year.
Editor, awards judge, and curator Cecile Shanahan will moderate the second discussion, joined by highly respected Gudanji/Wakaja writer and academic Debra Dank. Debra's latest book Ankami was longlisted for the 2026 Stella Prize and shortlisted for the Victorian Premier's Literary Award, and Debra was a Stella Prize judge in 2025. Please join us in celebrating some of the year's best new Australian writing. Bookings FREE but essential - book here .
Each session includes:
- Author in conversation with a local moderator, and book readings
- Open forums for audiences to ask questions and engage in discussion
- Book signings available, books will be available for purchase before and at the event, courtesy of Collins Booksellers Echuca
Event Details:
- Date: Saturday 23 May 2026
- Time: 11am-3pm (2x1 hour talks, plus book signings)
- Location: Echuca Library , 310 Hare Street, Echuca VIC 3564
- Tickets: Bookings FREE but essential - book here .
This event is proudly supported by Campaspe Shire Council's 2026 SPARK Arts & Cultural Grants Program and The Hugh Williamson Foundation.
Key Dates:
- Prize Winner Announcement: Wednesday 13th May 2026, Brisbane
- Stella Day Out: Geelong Wednesday 3rd June 2026, Geelong Library
About Stella:
Stella is a major voice for gender equality and cultural change in Australian literature.
