Alpine Shire Council is proud to present the Winter Writers Roundtable, a vibrant, roving two-day literary event set to inspire readers and writers across Mount Beauty, Bright and Myrtleford this June.
Taking place on Thursday, 18 and Friday, 19 June, the program will showcase an exceptional line-up of some of Australia’s most celebrated authors, including Michael Brissenden, Suzanne Leal, Siobhan O’Brien and Zahid Gamieldien.
Across three unique sessions, audiences will enjoy thought-provoking conversations, insider insights and engaging storytelling experiences hosted by Alpine Shire Libraries.
Alpine Shire Mayor, Cr Sarah Nicholas, said the event highlights the strength of the region’s cultural offering and the important role libraries play in connecting communities.
“Winter Writers Roundtable is a fantastic example of the rich cultural experiences available right here in Alpine Shire,” she said.
“We’re incredibly proud of our libraries in Bright, Mount Beauty and Myrtleford, which continue to bring incredible authors and ideas into the heart of our regional communities.
"Events like this not only inspire local readers and aspiring writers, they showcase that you don’t have to travel to a capital city to access exceptional literary talent.
“This is a unique opportunity for our community to connect with some of Australia’s finest storytellers in an intimate and welcoming setting.”
The Roundtable will 'roam' across three locations, each offering a distinct program of conversations and themes.
Tickets for each session are free, but places are limited. Community members and visitors interested in attending are encouraged to book their places as soon as possible to avoid missing out.
Session 1 | Mount Beauty Library – Thursday, 18 June, 1pm–3pm
The series begins in Mount Beauty with two compelling author conversations. Suzanne Leal will join Zahid Gamieldien to explore the themes and inspiration behind his gripping crime novel All The Missing Children, recently optioned for television adaptation.
The session continues with Michael Brissenden in conversation with Siobhan O’Brien, discussing her acclaimed historical novel All the Golden Light, set on the south coast of New South Wales in 1918 and praised by critics as “heart-stopping” and “as good as historical fiction gets.”
Session 2 | Bright Library – Friday, 19 June, 11am–1pm
The morning session in Bright will open with Siobhan O’Brien interviewing Michael Brissenden about his transition from political correspondent to bestselling crime writer, with a focus on his latest thriller Dust, widely described as “masterful” and “a new classic of Australian crime fiction.”
This will be followed by Zahid Gamieldien in conversation with Suzanne Leal, delving into her latest novel The Watchful Wife, a compelling story hailed as “propulsive, provocative and impossible to put down.”
Session 3 | Myrtleford Memorial Hall – Friday 19 June, 6pm–8.30pm
The final evening session brings all four authors together for an engaging panel discussion on the journey from journalism into fiction writing, offering audiences a rare glimpse into creative transitions and storytelling craft.
The conversation will then shift to writing across platforms, exploring novels, young adult fiction and screenwriting, led by Siobhan O’Brien, Zahid Gamieldien and Suzanne Leal.
The event will conclude on a relaxed and creative note with a special performance from Minnie and The Moonrakers, featuring Siobhan O’Brien and Greg Duncan Powell.
Cr Nicholas said the combination of literature, conversation and performance makes the event a standout on the region’s winter calendar.
"This program is not just about books - it’s about creativity, connection and bringing people together. Whether you’re a lifelong reader or simply curious, there’s something here for everyone,” she said.
“We encourage locals and visitors alike to embrace this opportunity and experience our libraries in a whole new way.”
For event details and bookings, visit Winter Writers Roundtable