Details
Date: November – March 2024
Location: Walwa
Fund: Quick Response Grants – Regional Arts Fund
Grant amount: $4,500
Why was this project supported? Excellent outcomes for local artists and general community.
What part of this project was funded? This grant funded a portion of the artist fees.
Project
In December 2023, Upper Murray Writers was a successful applicant of the Quick Response Grants, which supported them to stage the Walwa Literary Lunch. The event was designed to inspire emerging authors, provide networking and professional development opportunities for established writers. It also engaged readers with literature in a picturesque setting sufficient to satisfy appetites for scenery, literature, and fine food.
The literary lunch provided a social engagement opportunity for the remote rural community which is still in a disaster recovery process. Enthusiastic speakers wove tales of their craft, their creations, inspiration, and publishing journey.
There was a display of erstwhile residents’ books (such as Elyne Mitchell), featuring subject matter that focused on the Upper Murray. It celebrated the district’s rich literary history, social fabric, and picturesque scenery.
Contemporary authors, members of Upper Murray Writers, hosted a book fair and were available to discuss their works with readers.
As the icing on the cake: a delicious two-course lunch served with the quirky theme of ‘Lunch with a Side of Mystery’. Presenting a mystery menu!
