Part of the Adelaide Festival, Writers’ Week literary festival is a gem. Not sure if it’s a ‘hidden gem’ as the expression goes, if the extensive crowds are a guide. Held in the Pioneer Women’s Memorial Garden on beautiful lawns under the trees, it is a magnificent and peaceful setting to sit and listen to brilliant authors. The program of inspiring and entertaining talks is diverse and this year also offers some online streaming sessions. The online sessions are divided into two types; the ‘Curated Dozen’ talks to view at home and the sessions being streamed to libraries, schools, retirement villages and community centres across the state
I had the pleasure on Saturday of beginning my day with a relaxing and gentle bike ride along Linear Park, through the parklands to the Summerhouse, the temporary structure housing many events during the Adelaide Festival, including the one I was aiming for, Breakfast with Papers. There was ample bike parking nearby. I was impressed with the festival’s Covid safe measures including spaced seating, clear signage, check ins and sanitiser. The Breakfast with Papers event consists each day of a panels of guests being hosted by Tom Wright as they discuss news of the day and current issues. This was informative and interesting and a very relaxing start to the day.
On Saturday and Sunday the crowds were out in force to see Julia Gilliard and Malcolm Turnball speak. Big drawcards and offering people the opportunity to see and hear these ex-Prime Ministers in person.
I absolutely loved ‘The World of Words’ talk with author Pip Williams and the editor of the Macquarie Dictionary, Sue Butler. Fascinating hearing them speak about the history of dictionaries, the processes involved and how dictionaries shape and reflect their times.
Writers’ Week continues until the evening of 4 March. It’s free entry and there is a books tent to purchase books. Many authors do signings after their talks. There is also a takeaway cafe and a place to fill up water bottles. I recommend bringing a big hat as it’s difficult to obtain a prime spot in the shade. Check out the program for details on wheelchair accessibility and Auslan sessions.
Facebook event page click here
