‘Words Out West’ festival set to enrich Western Downs culture

The Western Downs will write its way into the history books in February 2020, with the first ever readers and writers festival taking over the region for three massive days.

From the avid wordsmith to the cartoon creative, Words Out West is set to deliver a range of literary experiences from 14 to 16 February in Dalby and the wider Western Downs.

The inaugural festival will welcome several high-profile names including Author of Tomorrow, When the War Began, John Marsden, Athlete, Author and Disability Activist Kurt Fearnley, Children’s Entertainer Stig Wemyss, and Blogger and Cookbook Author Hayley Maudsley.

Western Downs Mayor Paul McVeigh said Words Out West would deliver another world-class festival for the region, honing the creative vibrancy of our country lifestyle.

“This festival is unlike anything ever seen before in our region, and we are excited to host another vibrant event suited to all ages and interests,” Cr McVeigh said.

“With a massive line-up of authors, illustrators, cartoonists, journalists, bloggers and podcasters, Words Out West will put a modern, interactive spin on traditional reading and writing.”

Cr McVeigh said the festival would feature a range of unique events including a writers’ retreat, workshops, presentations, gala dinner and the chance to meet some of Australia’s best-loved authors in person.

“Hundreds of local school students will participate in a special student day where some of our literary guests will engage them with hands-on workshops and interactive story presentations which encourage curiosity and inspire creativity,” he said.

“An overnight writers retreat, in partnership with Queensland Writers Centre, is another festival highlight, taking place in the picturesque Bunya Mountains and offering a chance to uncover how to think, write, publish and promote like an expert.

“The Main Festival Days will celebrate some of the best local and national talent in the writing realm, with a series of panel discussions, presentations and workshops exploring a range of genres.

There’ll be something for young lovers of stories too, with a special Storytime in the Park featuring renown indigenous author and creator, Gregg Driese, songs and fun craft.

“Words Out West will really energise creativity in the community and give story-lovers the opportunity to share in our unique regional lifestyle while hearing from some of the best in the game – all on home soil.”

Western Downs Regional Council Spokesperson for Community and Cultural Development Councillor Kaye Maguire said that the festival will open prospects for local authors.

“Words Out West is more than just a festival celebrating established authors and illustrators, there’s an opportunity for budding authors in our region to be inspired,” she said.

“Sitting in our classrooms or local retailers might be the next Stephen King or Mem Fox and this festival may light the spark that introduces them to the literary world.”

To check out the full Words Out West Program, visit the Words Out West website via www.westerndownslibraries.com/wordsoutwest or call Western Downs Libraries via 1300 COUNCIL (268 624).

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