A free afternoon of books, authors, art, music & community
Come along and finish the 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival with us at Stories by the Sea — a relaxed, free community celebration where readers, writers, families and friends can spend the afternoon together by the water.
When: 3pm-4:30pm Sunday 13 September 2026
Where: Whitsunday Marine Club, 7 Altmann Avenue, Cannonvale
FREE community event, no festival ticket required
Whether you’re a keen reader, curious about local authors, looking for something to do with the family or simply want to enjoy a relaxed Sunday afternoon, Stories by the Sea is for you.
Meet the Authors
More than 20 regional authors will be there to meet readers, chat about their books and sell and sign copies.
Browse the author stalls, discover your next great read and find out more about the writers and stories coming out of our region.
Throughout the afternoon, enjoy short author readings and informal interviews — a chance to hear the stories behind the stories.
Bring Two Books to Swap
Got a couple of good books at home that you’ve already read?
Bring up to two pre-loved books in good condition and swap them for something new at our Community Book Swap.
Or try a Blind Date with a Book and choose your next read without knowing exactly what’s inside.
Something for Everyone
- 20+ regional authors and book stalls
- Author readings and interviews
- Community Book Swap
- Blind Date with a Book
- Children’s storytime and activities
- Local writing groups and book clubs
- Live music
- Art and the Creative Connections Whitsunday Plein Air Art Challenge
- Pen pal activity
- Raffles and prize giveaways
- Gold coin BBQ
- Coffee cart
- Cash bar and refreshments
Watch Art Happen
The Creative Connections Whitsunday Plein Air Art Challenge will bring local artists outdoors to create original works inspired by the Whitsundays.
Visitors can watch the artworks develop throughout the day before viewing the finished pieces, voting for their favourite and seeing the People’s Choice Award announced at 4pm.
The artworks will also be offered through a silent auction, with 100% of sales going directly to the participating artists.
Bring a Rug & Stay Awhile
Bring your picnic rug, find a comfortable spot and settle in for the afternoon.
Grab a coffee, enjoy something from the gold coin BBQ, browse the books, listen to some stories and music, and soak up the atmosphere.