On the 13^th March I had the delight of attending the second Words Out West event in Dalby, Queensland. Dalby is only a three hour highway drive from Brisbane and festival events this year occurred over the 11–14 March 2021, including formal speaker sessions, a writing retreat at Jimbour House, in school author visits and other community events throughout the region, catering for both readers and writers. There was also a bookstore set up in the library so you could purchase a copy of your favourite author’s work, and even have it signed.

Country town engagement is something I’d highly advocate experiencing and Western-Downs pre-Easter weather is pretty much perfect year-to-year. (I could be slightly biased, but hey, it’s true. 😉) From crime to culture, serious conversations to side-splitting humour, the guest authors were engaging, PG-level family friendly (with the exception of a certain book cover, Mr Earls …😱😳🙈) and professional.

I enjoyed each session I attended but a personal highlight was hearing Francis Whiting in person. Francis came onto my radar when I was a university undergraduate (longer ago than I care to admit!!). One of my student peers name-dropped Francis one morning outside Parliament House on the way to a lecture, saying her writing was great and we should check her out. Being the diligent cohort we were, Francis was duly investigated. What a great tip that turned out to be! Since hearing Francis speak, I now know that soon after her weekly column was established and ever since, I’ve anticipated her down-to-earth, entertaining insights on life. And over the years Francis has continued to expand her writing prowess, penning opinion and human-interest features and even novels (check out Francis Whiting’s Goodreads profile).

What I found so refreshing about Words Out West was the positive, even uplifting atmosphere that pervaded the festival. It was great seeing enthusiastic and welcoming engagement from local councillors, library staff, community volunteers and more. Though many speakers broached confronting questions and at times delved into grave topics, the sessions I attended left me hopeful and more aware of the change-worthy power of personal conviction and healthy community values. My family and I have now attended two years running and here’s a hint—it’s an awesome annual event you should seriously put on your calendar.