Whether you're an avid reader, a budding writer, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of the written word, this festival offers something for everyone.
2024 Sunshine Coast Hinterland Writers Festival
The Sunshine Coast Hinterland Writers Festival will take place Friday 11 – Sunday 13 October 2024 and will connect writers and readers across an innovative literary trail.
The trail will begin in the “gateway to the hinterland”, Nambour, and span across the scenic hinterland towns of Maleny, Montville and Mapleton.
What's On
Author Panels
Workshops & Exhibitions
Meet the Author Book Signings
Young Readers & Writers Sessions
Foodie Events + more …
An Abundance of Events
The three-day program will allow you to engage in a mix of genres including crime, fantasy, romance, memoir, screenwriting, poetry, and more, and will comprise of panel discussions, author talks and practical workshops.
Special events will include a Gala Opening Party, a Poetry Slam, a romantic High Tea, Young Readers events and foodie events such as ‘Sconversations’, and a long table lunch.
A number of free events will take place in each of the locations allowing you to immerse yourself in the creativity of the festival.
Premium Events
Opening Gala Fantasy Party
Long Table Lunch with Candice Fox
Green Room event with Heidi Merika
Tasting event with Mindy Woods
Ignite the Love of Literacy
Kids can dive into a world of imagination with interactive storytelling sessions, creative writing workshops, and fun-filled activities designed just for them.
Parents and older siblings can enjoy panel discussions, meet their favourite authors, and explore a diverse range of literary genres. With something for everyone, it’s the perfect outing for families who cherish the magic of stories.
Discover the Magic of Words
Engage with renowned authors, attend insightful workshops, and participate in lively panel discussions.
From poetry readings and book signings to interactive sessions and networking opportunities, the festival is your gateway to a world of literary inspiration.
Premium Events
The festival offers more than 50 events over the three days and includes premium events designed to elevate your festival experience.
From the gala fantasy party that will open the event to a long table lunch and panel discussions, these events provide unparalleled access to the literary world. Whether you’re looking to engage more deeply with your favourite authors or gain insider knowledge, these experiences promise to be the highlight of your festival journey.
Opening Gala Fantasy Party
Friday 11 October
6.30pm – 10.00pm
Join us to officially open the festival and get to spend one on one time with the authors joining us for what will be a fabulous evening.
Karkalla at Spill
Saturday 12 October
From 2.00pm
Join us for a tasting event and Mindy Woods in conversation with fellow Masterchef alumni Jamie Fleming.
Book Market
Sunday 13 October
9.00am – 3.00pm
Step into a world of literary wonder at our local Indie Author book market that includes author conversations.
Green Room Event with Heidi Merika
Saturday 12 October
2.00pm – 3.00pm
Inclusive of intimate writers in conversation and discussion with Heidi and booking signing.
All vegetarian nibbles designed by head chef Cameron Matthews using Falls Farm produce with Heidi’s recipes inspiring the menu.
Glass of vegan wine or non-alcoholic wine included. Additional drinks available at the bar.
Long Table Lunch with Candice Fox
Sunday 13 October
11.00am – 1.30pm
Join us for an unforgettable Long Table Lunch with bestselling crime author Candice Fox. Enjoy a delicious meal while engaging in intimate conversation with one of Australia’s most acclaimed writers.
With great food, captivating stories, and the chance to connect with fellow literary enthusiasts, this is a lunch you won’t want to miss!
DATE
Saturday 12 October
VENUE
Mapleton Public House,
COST
$60 per person
Green Room Event with Heidi Merika
Inclusive of intimate writers in conversation and discussion with Heidi and booking signing.
All vegetarian nibbles designed by head chef Cameron Matthews using Falls Farm produce with Heidi’s recipes inspiring the menu.
Glass of vegan wine or non-alcoholic wine included. Additional drinks available at the bar.
Heidi Merika
Heidi Merika is a medical herbalist, educator and author. She is the author of Wildcraft (2019) and From the Wild (Murdoch 2024). She runs popular courses on herbal medicine and foraging both in person and online.
DATE
Sunday 13 October
VENUE
Mapleton Public House
COST
$129 per person
Long Table Lunch with Candice Fox
Join us for an unforgettable Long Table Lunch with bestselling crime author Candice Fox. Enjoy a delicious meal while engaging in intimate conversation with one of Australia’s most acclaimed writers.
With great food, captivating stories, and the chance to connect with fellow literary enthusiasts, this is a lunch you won’t want to miss!
Candice Fox
Candice Fox is one of Australia’s most successful crime writers, and the winner of three prestigious Ned Kelly Awards. She has also co-written New York Times bestsellers with James Patterson. Candice’s novels Crimson Lake and Redemption Point were adapted into a major ABC TV series called Troppo. Her latest books are Devil’s Kitchen and High Wire (Penguin 2024).
