AU Upcoming

Island Storytellers Festival

A three-day floating literary festival held across the Southern Moreton Bay Islands, featuring author talks, music, and historical storytelling. The event utilizes the MV Kurrowera as a roaming venue to connect various island communities in the Redlands region.

Date
Oct 3-5, 2026
Location
Southern Moreton Bay Islands, Redlands
Status
Upcoming
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Island Storytellers Festival

Event summary

Highlights

  • Floating festival venue aboard the MV Kurrowera roaming between islands
  • Novel launch of 'Full Circle' by bestselling crime author Chris Hammer
  • Historical storytelling regarding South Sea Islanders on Macleay Island
  • Youth literary sessions held on the Marine Rescue vessel Talbot
The Island Storytellers Festival is a unique three-day celebration that transforms the Southern Moreton Bay Islands into a mobile hub for literature and history. A central feature of the event is its "floating" format, using the vessel MV Kurrowera as a roaming venue to host activities while traveling between Lamb Island, Coochiemudlo, and North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah). Supported by Creative Australia, the festival aims to weave together local voices and shared histories through community-driven storytelling.

The 2026 program features a mix of acclaimed national writers and local presenters. Notable activities include the launch of Chris Hammer's new novel on the water, discussions on Australian noir with Jane Caro, and professional development workshops for emerging writers. Younger readers are also catered for with high-energy sessions held aboard the Marine Rescue vessel Talbot.

In addition to literary pursuits, the festival highlights regional history, including presentations on South Sea Islander history on Macleay Island. Other creative offerings include workshops for creating and performing an opera in a single afternoon, alongside sessions exploring creative inspiration with various award-winning authors.

Practical details

Before attending

Check the sources below for current opening times, admission prices and registration requirements. A date range does not mean the event runs continuously or that admission is free.

Sources and further information

Check these references for event announcements and updates before attending.

Location map

Approximate area only; exact venue coordinates are not confirmed.

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Southern Moreton Bay Islands calendar Open local events and dates. More in Queensland Browse the wider area. Literary events Follow this theme across the calendar. Australia calendar Browse the national event calendar.