Sunshine Coast Libraries is hosting the coast’s biggest combined book launch at Beerwah.
The Sunshine Coast is home to an abundance of exceptional literary talent. Libraries are bringing together writers, readers and creatives to share our love of books and support our local authors.
The Storytellers Festival 2022 offers the opportunity to meet and mingle with successful local authors, explore their works and listen to their stories, you may even discover your new favourite book! Emerging authors will be inspired to follow their writing and publishing journey as they take part in a series of creative writing, publishing and illustration workshops. Don’t miss this chance to connect and immerse yourself in our passionate writing community.
Ticketed workshops have now been announced, and tickets can be booked by clicking on the workshop titles below.
To find out more or stay up to date on latest event information, visit this page.
authors marketplace
The Author’s Marketplace features 25 local authors launching a diverse array of novels and picture books. Buy direct from the author, get an autograph and have a yarn with a local storyteller.
Time: 2pm – 7.30pm
Location: Beerwah Meeting Place
Price: FREE Entry / REGISTER your attendance now for your chance to win a lucky door prize on the day.
Workshops
Indie Self-Publishing
Own the rights
Take a closer look at the world of independent self-publishing in all its glory with industry professional Alex Fullerton from Author Support Services. Find out what exactly is involved with embarking on a self-publishing journey. Learn ways to avoid common mistakes that can lead to time loss and heartache. Get valuable tips on building a self-publishing action plan to keep you on track for success.
Time: 1.30–2.30pm
Location: Beerwah Meeting Place – Room 2
Price: $15 + booking fees
Traditional Publishing and Distribution
A practical guide
No matter what stage of the manuscript you’re up to, if you are considering taking the traditional publishing route then this is the workshop for you. Join popular local Author Kim McCosker for a closer look at her recipe for publishing and distribution success. Get useful tips on approaching agents and publishing houses. Learn about the timing and stages of production. Discover benefits of traditional publishing and take a closer look at common pitfalls to avoid.
Time: 1.30–2.30pm
Location: Beerwah Meeting Place – Room 3 & 3A
Price: $15 + booking fees
Maximising Your Books’ Potential
Side-hustles for Authors
You’ve done all the hard work of writing, editing, re-writing, publishing and marketing your book – so now what? How can you stretch your success and get the most return for all your blood, sweat and tears? Join award-winning Author and 2021 Sunshine Coast Business Women of the Year Roxanne McCarty-O’kane for tips on ways to maximise your books potential. Learn how to leverage your book to create a side-hussle or small business. Discover ways to convert readers into clients. Find out how you could become an authority, influencer or speaker on your topic. Don’t just be a drop in the literary ocean, learn how to ride your wave of success.
Time: 1.45–2.45pm
Location: Events Space — Beerwah Library
Price: $15 + booking fees
Writing Memoirs
More than memories
Discover how to turn a personalised story into a true masterpiece. Join accomplished local Author, Allison Marlow Paterson, for valuable tips on writing memoirs – and getting published! Hear about effective ways to research and gather facts. Learn how to identify your target audience and tailor your story to suit. Take a closer look at how creative application of fiction elements can be used to help develop characters and settings. Find your authors’ voice and uncover some hidden gems.
Time: 2.45–3.45pm
Location: Beerwah Meeting Place – Room 2
Price: $15 + booking fees
Crime Writing Essentials
Crack the case
Crime is one of the most widely read fiction genres, but how do authors compel their readers to keep turning the pages? Join Crime Writer extraordinaire, Dr Lea Scott, and delve deep into the world of psychological thrillers. Unearth ways to flesh out your storyline. Learn how to create multi-dimensional characters that your readers will care about. Get tips on heightening suspense and discover ways to compose a satisfying ending.
Time: 2.45–3.45pm
Location: Beerwah Meeting Place – Room 3 & 3A
Price: $15 + booking fees
The Writers’ Craft
Stand out from the pack
Join Dr Paul Williams, Senior Creative Writing Lecturer at the University of Sunshine Coast, for a practical, hands-on workshop with individual and group exercises that help you write the best you can. Learn how to write compelling narratives. Discover ways to make your sentences shine. Build connection and community through shared story making.
Time: 3–4pm
Location: Events Space — Beerwah Library
Price: $15 + booking fees
Career Illustration
Drawn to success
Ok, so you can draw, but now what? Join accomplished visual artist and illustrator Heather Gall and picture yourself in the world of a successful illustrator. Learn how to plan, design, develop and prepare pictures to communicate messages and bring story books to life. Discover ways to showcase your works and advertise your services in the best places. Get valuable tips for setting your illustrating career on the right track.
Time: 4.15–5.15pm
Location: Beerwah Meeting Place – Room 2
Price: $15 + booking fees
Demystifying Poetry
Find the poetic in the everyday
Poetry is the art of bringing something new into being; whereas the poem is the vehicle in which that ‘newness’ is observed. Join USC Creative Writing Lecturer Dr Ginna Brock to explore the tools and techniques used by poets to create impactful literature. Find out how the humble word can be used to capture an audience and raise a myriad of feelings or emotions. Learn how to hone your craft. Take your poetry beyond the page.
Time: 4.15–5.15pm
Location: Events Space — Beerwah Library
Price: $15 + booking fees
Writing Children’ Books
Behind the scenes
Join award-winning children’s author, Aleesah Darlison, for an eye-opening and inspirational introduction to writing for children. Find out who the major players are in the children’s publishing industry. Learn about formats and word lengths for various age groups and genres. Discover what types of stories publishers are looking for and who to send your work to. This session is perfect for adults wishing to write picture books, chapter books, novels, and series, for children and young adults.
Time: 4.30–5.30pm
Location: Beerwah Meeting Place – Room 3 & 3A
Price: $15 + booking fees
