PORT Writers hosted “Writers for Writers 2026” at Port Panthers on the weekend of 6-8 March.
The volunteer-run festival featured both commissioned writers and self-publishers.
President Wendy Haynes said Port Writers provides a place to connect, create and celebrate.
“[It] exists to support writers at every stage, whether you’re just beginning or have been writing for years.
“It shows what can happen when people believe in the power of writing and building connection in a community.”
The weekend began with local poets and panelists Rex Twomey, Alanna Alfaro and Ian Keast reflecting on their writing.
Saturday morning’s self-publishing panel was a treat for festival-goers, with published writers Maggie Walters, Fiona McArthur and Tracey Brenton sharing lots of tips and useful information.
Like many of the presenters at the festival, they were generous with their time and expertise, and passionate about their work as writers.
There were also workshops featuring writing and editing exercises for fictional short stories, poetry, non-fiction and memoir.
Sunday morning’s panel with published writers Foster Burton, Tamara McWilliams and John Byrnes explored how to include history when writing fiction and memoir.
By Pauline CAIN
You can help your local paper.
Make a small once-off, or (if you can) a regular donation.
We are an independent family owned business and our newspapers are free to collect and our news stories are free online.
Help support us into the future.
