To celebrate Queensland Day, I’ve compiled a list of things that writers can do in Queensland between now and the end of 2017. If you don’t live in Queensland, still read on. Some of these can be accessed online or you might even be inspired to travel to our sunny state for the occasion.

1. Queensland Writers Centre

The Queensland Writers Centre offers a range of services, workshops and events for writers, including online courses. They also have some regional events coming up in Bundaberg, Townsville and Cairns. You don’t have to be a member, or even live in Queensland, to take advantage of their benefits. However, if you do join, you receive their quarterly magazine and fortnightly e-newsletters to keep you up to date with competitions, submission opportunities and writing events. You also receive discounts on workshops, online courses, talks, seminars and more. Full yearly membership is $70 (or $55 for concession-card holders). However, they’ve just launched a range of other options, including associate membership rates. Check out their website for more information. I’ve been a member since 2007 and it’s the best money I spend each year.

2. State Library of Queensland

The State Library in Brisbane has an incredible collection of books, archives, and e-resources; and hosts various exhibitions and events throughout the year. If you’re a Queensland resident, you can join online and have access to a mind-boggling array of resources. Have a look at their website for more information about upcoming events and services on offer.

3. Writers’ Groups

Writers’ groups are a great way to connect with others, learn skills, and get feedback. I’m a member of Omega Writers, a national Christian-based group. We currently have three local chapters in Queensland, based in Brisbane, Toowoomba and the Gold Coast. You can find contact information for the different branches here. The Australian Writer’s Marketplace lists writers’ groups by location. You have to subscribe to access the details online, but many libraries also have a print copy of that publication. If you click here, you can also access a list of writers’ groups in and around Brisbane

4. Young Writers and Those Who Write for Young People (July, 2017)

There are at least three conferences or festivals in July that cater to children and young people or for those who write for those age groups. For more information, check the websites for the following: Children’s and Young Adult Writers and Illustrators Conference (Brisbane, 1 July 2017); Whitsunday Voices Youth Literature Festival (Mackay, 12-14 July 2017); and Voices on the Coast, Youth Literature Festival (Sunshine Coast, 19-22 July 2017).

5. USQ Bookcase (Toowoomba, 21-23 July 2017)

Includes a literary cocktail party on the Friday night, a writers’ festival on the Saturday ($10 admission includes all sessions) and masterclasses on the Sunday (choose 1 of 4 for $75-$85). The program is on the website. Just click on the links at the top of each column to find out about that event.

6. Sunshine Coast International Readers and Writers Festival (Coolum, 12-13 August 2017)

Includes a poetry slam competition, a children’s day, and a host of writing workshops. The program should be on the website any day now.

7. Queensland Poetry Festival (Brisbane, 24-27 August 2017)

Includes workshops, poetry readings, panels and a poetry slam competition. The program will be available from 21 July, so keep an eye on the website.

8. Brisbane Writers Festival (6-10 September 2017)

A fabulous festival with brilliant workshops, masterclasses, panels and talks on just about everything to do with writing. The program will be available from July, so bookmark the website now.

9. WriteFest (Bundaberg, 7-8 October 2017)

The program isn’t available yet, but they usually have a range of writing workshops and events. Keep an eye on their website.

10. GenreCon (Brisbane, 10-12 November 2017)

If you like genre fiction (e.g. romance, crime or sci-fi), this conference could be for you. Some of the speakers have been announced, though the full program isn’t available yet. Check the website for more details.

So what are you waiting for? Mark those dates in your diary now. Have you been to any of these events in the past? Do you know of any other writing events happening in Queensland this year? I’d love to hear your comments.