The King's Birthday long weekend in Queensland will bring a literary treat, with top authors discussing conservation at the North Australian Festival of Arts in Townsville before an intensive writing workshop gets under way on scenic Yunbenun/Magnetic Island.
Associate Professor Victoria Kuttainen, head of James Cook University's Roderick Centre for Australian Literature and Creative Writing, said the weekend would begin on Saturday, October 3, with writers in discussion with reef experts at the North Australian Festival of Arts.
"The writers are all past winners of JCU's competitive Writers on the Reef residency. We have Manisha Anjali, Lucy Christopher, Paul Hardisty and Mia-Francesca Jones talking with reef experts about creativity, climate, place and the role of storytelling in environmental awareness," A/Prof Kuttainen said.
The event dovetails with the intensive Tidal Writing Retreat on nearby Yunbenun/Magnetic Island, running from Sunday, October 4, to Wednesday, October 7.
"Acclaimed writers and creative writing instructors from across Australia will offer daily workshops on nature writing and help participants of all writing levels and backgrounds, from beginner to expert, develop a piece of writing of up to 2000 words," A/Prof Kuttainen said.
Participants will also receive 25-minute one-on-one coaching sessions with faculty members Paul Hardisty, Rose Michael, Rachael Hennessy, Lucy Christopher and Manisha Anjali.
"It's open to any member of the public with an interest in creative writing, with any level of experience, whether you are just beginning your writing journey or looking to deepen and refine your craft," A/Prof Kuttainen said.
Details and how to apply here.
