Our Team
The Heartbeat of the Festival
The magic of the Whitsundays Writers Festival doesn’t happen by accident. It is the direct result of countless hours of passion, planning, and professional expertise donated by a remarkable group of individuals.
We are a community-driven not-for-profit, and our team – a blend of skilled volunteers and dedicated professionals – is the engine that brings our literary vision to life in beautiful Airlie Beach.
Led by our Festival Director and supported by a committed Management Committee and an Advisory Group, this team oversees every detail, from curating a nationally significant program to ensuring your experience is seamless.
Get to know the people behind the pages.
Festival Leadership & Operations
Festival Director & President
RICHARD EVANS
The creative visionary and strategic lead, Richard steers the festival’s direction and fosters key partnerships with authors and the publishing industry.
- Author
- Former Federal Politician
- Industry Leader
- Strategist
Strategy and Marketing Lead & Secretary
CAIT FLEMING
Cait shapes the festival’s voice, connecting our stories to audiences across the Whitsundays and beyond through media, digital channels, and community engagement.
- Marketing & Media specialist
- Business Consultant
- Not-for-Profit & Company Director
- Strategy-to-Operations Advisor
Operational Lead & Treasurer
DR JULIA EVANS
Julia translates the festival vision into reality, managing budgets, logistics, and the intricate planning that ensures a smooth and successful event for all.
- Publishing Services Advisor
- Adult Education Specialist
- Operational Management Professional
- Business & Arts and Culture Advocate
Advisory Group
JANNAH BAKER
Jannah brings a strong focus on elevating the arts as a key economic and cultural driver for the Whitsundays. She is passionate about collaboration, and the role festivals play in capturing local expertise, identity, and creativity.
- Regional Advocate
- Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce Vice President
- Business & Innovation Professional
- Advanced Manufacturing Business Owner
SUE BIRCH
Sue brings deep expertise in strengthening not-for-profit organisations that deliver meaningful outcomes through fundraising and philanthropy.
- Independent Not-for-Profit Business Consultant
- Operations & Governance Specialist
- Whitsundays Community Member
- Avid Reader
RICK BROWN
After a successful career in the corporate world, Rick found solace and inspiration in the Whitsundays where he rekindled his lifelong passion for storytelling.
- Retired Business Executive & Entrepreneur
- Author
- Company Director
- Business Consultant
ALICIA MULCAHY
Alicia draws on her leadership in public libraries and her passion for building connected, creative communities to support the festival’s vision for inclusive, meaningful storytelling experiences across the Whitsundays.
- Library Team Leader
- Community Engagement Facilitator
- Regional Partnerships & Outreach Collaborator
- Literacy Advocate