The written and spoken word, in all forms and dialects is incredibly important to who we are as human beings. Without it, you wouldn’t be reading my ramblings about the various key points of the social and cultural calendar of the Sunshine Coast right now – where would we be without it? I believe it’s incredibly important to not only respect words and language, but to celebrate it and its diversity.

In 2016 the incredible Sunshine Coast International Readers and Writers Festival began to offer us just such an opportunity. Its mission, as a festival, was to become a platform for regional, and international creatives alike to share their passions and creations with audiences that might otherwise not had to chance to experience such expressions – an opportunity for these creatives to come together, stop for a moment, collaborate and listen. It’s an opportunity for growth and to appreciate just how beautiful and dynamic our languages can be.

In 2017 the Sunshine Coast Readers and Writers Festival will be making its return from August 12th to the 13th, and it’s only getting bigger and better. This year there is a hefty line-up of both panels and workshops for the budding authors amongst you. For those with a historic twist on their writing, Award-winning Queensland Author of young adult and historical novels, and poems; Adele Jones is leading a Workshop called “Fill your pie and eat it: Research confessions from a Historical Writer turned Young Adult novelist”. For those looking to make a career out of their writings, Alison Reynolds – author of over 70 books published in 12 countries and 9 different languages, will be leading a workshop on writing an adventure series, as well as partaking in the panel discussion on the topic of writing a series. There’s something for every novelist and poet, with panels and workshops on everything from adult fiction to children’s books, and converting books to screenplays, as well as a Slam Poetry Championship round and some not to be missed workshops.

For those who like to indulge in a more musical form of expression, August 12th, at the Coolum civic centre from 6:30pm is a night not to miss. In addition to the championship, which is sure to be a spectacle all on its own – hosted by 2014 Poetry Slam Champ Zohab Zee Khan, the night will end on a high note thanks to a fantastic line-up of fantastic and original singer-songwriters. The bill includes: Barry Charles, Jay Bishoff, Andrea Kirwan, Sharon Brookes, and the fantastic hip-hop group The Lyrical. Each day is filled with fantastic workshops and performances that should not be missed.

If you’d like more information on the events, its presenters, or to purchase your tickets now, visit the festival’s website.