Curated by festival director Alan Baxter, the 2023 Speculative Fiction Festival program boasted some of Australia’s best fantasy, sci-fi and horror authors, discussing everything from craft and inspiration to publishing and industry.

Fiona Hazard joined us for First Friday to share her knowledge and experience garnered from over 25 years in publishing.

Alan Baxter joined us for First Friday to discuss his writing career, his writing practice, and what we can expect at this year’s Speculative Fiction Festival.

‘When writing a novel that sort of support is invaluable. And I guess support is a good way to describe what attending a writer’s group has given me. It has borne some of the weight.
It has held me up.’

Dr Jan Zwar joined us for First Friday to discuss and dissect the findings of Macquarie University’s 2022 National Survey of Australian Authors.

Miles Merrill joined us for First Friday to discuss the projects and programs of his ground-breaking poetry slam organisation, Word Travels.

Kate Mildenhall joined us to discuss the ins and outs of hosting a podcast, her favourite moments and biggest challenges, and what she’s learned interviewing her guests about the practice and process of writing and publishing.

Amy and Veechi discussed Varuna’s opportunities and events for writers, the upcoming Writing NSW Varuna Fellowships, and what it is that makes Varuna such a beloved literary institution.

Joanne discussed the Riverside National Theatre of Parramatta’s program and the vital role the company plays in developing diverse stories for the stage, nurturing new writers and building a community of aspiring and established playwrights.