‘Write’ way to boost our region

Moreton Bay Region may become the writers’ capital of Queensland following the launch of a major new festival.

The first Fellowship of Australian Writers Queensland (FAWQ) Readers and Writers Festival is coming here from June 18 to July 1 next year.

Mayor Peter Flannery says attracting the two-week celebration of the written word is a massive coup.

“This region has long held a special place in the hearts of historians, writers and artists, so I hope the event will become a major annual attraction on our calendar,” he says.

“It’s fitting that FAWQ is writing this new chapter in Redcliffe, which has historically been one of the strongest sub-branches in Queensland since 1960.

“It will be a massive economic boon for the region too. We’re expecting visitors from outside the region as well locals to come to events at Moreton Bay Region Libraries and the University of the Sunshine Coast Moreton Bay Campus during those two weeks.”

FAWQ president and Redcliffe branch member Jim Higgins says 2021 is a milestone for the group and he’s pleased to share it with the public.

“This is a monumental occasion for FAWQ, as our roots stem back to 1921, making next year’s festival a centenary celebration,” Mr Higgins says.

“This will be a great opportunity for us to showcase the brilliant talent we have in Moreton Bay, but also see the best and brightest from across the state.

“We haven’t had an event like this in our 100-year history, so we are especially thankful to Moreton Bay Regional Council and its library staff for sharing our passion.”

The festival program will be delivered closer to the date, but will aim to bring together writers, aspiring writers and readers to foster a love of books.