Shire of Harvey set to host its first Literacy Festival with workshops, talks and activities planned

It is set to be a reader’s delight in the Harvey and Australind libraries this month, with a new festival set to showcase some of the State’s literary talents.

The Shire of Harvey will hold its first Literacy Festival on March 9 and 10, with a variety of activities for the young and young at heart promised for residents.

Among some of the writers set to headline the festival are rural romance author Fiona Palmer, best-selling author Rachael Johns, crime writer Ian Hooper and Children’s Book Council of Australia representative Jeanette Stampone.

Others set to take part in the event include multi award-winner Dervla McTiernan and short fiction writer Brooke Dunnell.

Alongside the author talks, there are workshop opportunities including a chance for residents to research their family’s past at the Australind Family History Society open day.

For the younger ones, they will be able to bring their favourite teddy bear along to the City of Bunbury Libraries Teddy Bear Roadshow at the Ridley Place Foreshore.

Older residents will also be able to enjoy activities including intergenerational storytelling and afternoon tea at the Harvey Library.

Harvey Shire president Paul Gillett thanked staff for their work towards the project.

“We are all really excited for it,” he said.

Those seeking to learn more about the event can visit harvey.wa.gov.au or pick up a festival program from the Harvey and Australind libraries.