Published on 01 February 2024
Get set for Wordfest Onkaparinga
A new writing festival offering workshops, author talks, competitions and more is headed to the City of Onkaparinga from February.
Wordfest Onkaparinga is an initiative of Onkaparinga Libraries and the program for February to April(PDF, 9MB) is out now, with more events to be rolled-out throughout the year.
There are events aimed at writers of all ages, whether you’re passionate about fiction or poetry, comics and zines or romance, self-publishing or writing competitions.
There are also a range of events aimed at readers and book lovers more generally, with a number of Adelaide Writers’ Week sessions being streamed live at Onkaparinga’s Libraries, and a Walk With Words session at Port Noarlunga combining walking, reading, coffee and lively discussion.
City of Onkaparinga Mayor and poet, Moira Were, said she was delighted to see the inaugural Wordfest Onkaparinga headed to the south.
“As a writer and book lover myself, I know how important it is to find inspiration, support, workshops and a network of fellow writers to develop my craft,” she said.
“What a thrill then to see this fantastic program of events in the south, offering local writers and readers, and those from further afield, the chance to learn, develop their writing, and meet likeminded new people throughout 2024.
“I’m also excited about the impact the festival could have in building up Onkaparinga’s writing community, including through the Mayor’s Poetry and Writing Competition later this year.
“Who knows, maybe Wordfest could help unearth Australia’s next big bestseller or major literary award winner?”
Check out the February to April program and some more information about local writing groups below. You can also download the program here(PDF, 9MB). Keep an eye on the Onkaparinga Libraries Facebook page for details about new events as they’re added to the program.
February
Writing Poetry Workshop
Aldinga Library, Thursday 22 February, 6–7.30pm
Hone and develop the written craft of poetry with published poet Leeza von Alpen. Learn ways to fuel the imagination and help the words flow, cliches to avoid, hooks and conventions, structure, imagery, and writing techniques. For adults. Free. Bookings via Eventbrite.
Writing, Romance and Wine: An Evening with Amy T Matthews
Noarlunga Library, Wednesday 28 February, 6pm
An ‘In Conversation’ author talk discussing creative writing, women’s fiction, romance writing and Amy’s book, Someone Else’s Bucket List. For adults. Free. Bookings via Eventbrite.
March
Adelaide Writers’ Week Live Streaming
Onkaparinga Libraries, 4–7 March. Check Eventbrite for dates, times and locations.
Live streaming the east stage of Adelaide Writers’ Week. Please note: possible adult content. For adults. Free. Bookings preferred.
How to Edit a Manuscript
Hub Library, Sunday 17 March, 2.30–4.30pm
Whether you're an avid writer finalising your manuscript, or an emerging novelist beginning your creative writing journey, this workshop will help you hone your craft and understand expectations in the publishing industry. Facilitated by published poet Leeza von Alpen. For adults. Free. Bookings via Eventbrite.
Blackout Poetry
Woodcroft Library, Thursday 21 March, 10–11.30am
Celebrate Harmony Day and World Poetry Day with blackout poetry. Create your own crafty artwork then frame it to take home. For adults. Free. Bookings via Eventbrite.
April
Walk with Words
Port Noarlunga, Friday 5 April, 10–11.30am
Join fellow book enthusiasts for a beachside stroll while immersing yourself in an audiobook story using wireless headphones. Afterwards, gather over coffee to discuss the story you've just heard and chat with fellow book lovers. For adults. Free. Bookings via Eventbrite.
Let’s Write Workshop for Kids
Woodcroft Library, Tuesday 16 April, 10am–12pm
Inspiring children to love words! A free writing workshop for budding authors and artists. Presented by Grandmother Christine, international local author. For ages 9–12. Free. Bookings via Eventbrite.
Let’s Write Workshop for Teens
Woodcroft Library, Tuesday 16 April, 1–3pm
Inspiring teens to love words! A free writing workshop for budding authors and artists. Presented by Grandmother Christine, international local author. For ages 13–18. Free. Bookings via Eventbrite.
A Kid’s Guide to Self-Publishing
Woodcroft Library, Tuesday 23 April, 10–11.30am
Inspiring children to self-publish their own book. Receive simple step-by-step guidance on how to publish your own words to turn your dreams into possibilities. Presented by Grandmother Christine, international local author. For ages 9–18. Free. Bookings via Eventbrite.
A Quick Guide to Self-Publishing
Woodcroft Library, Sunday 28 April, 2.30–4pm
Inspiring adults to self-publish their own book. Receive simple step-by-step guidance on how to publish your own words to turn your dreams into possibilities. Presented by Grandmother Christine, international local author. For adults. Free. Bookings via Eventbrite.
September-October
Mayor’s Poetry and Writing Competition
More details to come. 13 September to 31 October with competition categories of Poetry, Flash Fiction and Youth. For ages 8+ and adults.
Onkaparinga-based writing groups
Inky Fingers Comic Gang
Noarlunga Library, fourth Monday of the month, 4pm. Supported by Onkaparinga Youth. For ages 8–14 years. Free. Open to all drawing levels, all materials supplied. Bookings essential.
Pen 2 Paper Writing Group
Aldinga Library, weekly on Tuesdays, 10am. For adults.
Teen Zines
Seaford Library, second Thursday of the month, 3.30pm. Supported by Onkaparinga Youth. For ages 12–17 years. Free. Open to all drawing levels, all materials supplied. Bookings required.
Ochre Coast Poets
Seaford Library, second Saturday of the month, 10am. For adults.