Geraldton’s Tasma Walton to be special guest at 20th anniversary of Big Sky Readers and Writers Festival

Acclaimed actor and author, Geraldton-raised Tasma Walton, is returning home next month to be a headline special guest at the 20th annual Big Sky Readers and Writers Festival. An impressive line-up of literary luminaries was announced this week for the weekend full of words, whimsy and wisdom, including Walton, novelists Catherine Greer and Stefanie Koens as well as musician and crime author Dave Warner to name just a few. Walton released her second novel, I Am Nannertgarrook, this year, which is based on the true story of her ancestor and shines a light on a dark side of Australia’s colonial history. The actor has built up a stellar CV on the screen over the past three decades, including roles in Blue Heelers, Mystery Road, How To Please A Woman and The Twelve. Koens’ debut novel Daughters of Batavia, which delves into the grim and haunting history of the Abrolhos Islands, won the 2023 Banjo Prize. The festival’s 20th anniversary kicks off on Friday October 24, with this year’s theme being A Celebration of Stories. City of Greater Geraldton mayor Jerry Clune said this year’s event was not to be missed. “We are extremely proud to be celebrating 20 years of the Big Sky Readers and Writers Festival, which remains one of our most loved locally grown events,” he said. “This year is a special milestone and to celebrate, there is an amazing program of events and brilliant guests to look forward to. “If you love a good read, I highly recommend checking it out as there is something for everyone.” A series of events and sessions will be on offer for book lovers of all ages, including a substantial pre-festival program featuring Perth Symphony Orchestra, Sisters in Crime WA and the Irwin Districts Historical Society. Six local writers are in the running for the 2025 Short Story Prize — Adrian Doyle, Carrie Puzzar, Annie Chandler, Serena Moss, Courtney Evans and Lorraine Lambert. The winner will be announced at the festival’s opening night on October 24 at Geraldton Regional Library. The event runs until Sunday, October 26. Ticket and program information will be released in coming weeks.