Clunes Booktown Festival

First Nations Oral Storytelling

Kick off the festival by listening to stories told by some of our foremost First Nations authors incorporating oral storytelling traditions. Be captivated by Jeanine Leane, Ron Murray and Susie Anderson as they each tell us a story that is important to them and their culture.

You Gotta Laugh - Celebrating Humour Writing

Hear a short sample from three of the books shortlisted for the inaugural John Clarke Prize for Humour Writing, followed by a discussion led by judging panelist (and daughter of John) Lorin Clarke. How hard is it to write something funny? Can anything be funny for anybody? And why is it important to champion humourous writing? Hear from Sam Elkin (Detachable Penis), Gabiann Marin (The Medusa Project) and Robert Skinner (I’d Rather Not), with Lorin Clarke (The Fitzroy Diaries, Would That Be Funny?) chairing.

Ageing with Attitude

Explore the undiscovered experiences of ageing. Brian Castro (Chinese Postman), Carol Lefevre (Bloomer), and Anna Johnston (The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife) discuss the unexpected joys, reflective moments, and opportunities for flourishing that can arise as we grow older. In conversation with Clunes community elder Tess Brady.

Sustainability in a Changing Climate

Three experts in the environmental field - Gardening Australia's Costa Georgiadis, Milkwood's Kirsten Bradley, and permaculture co-founder David Holmgren - will discuss the challenges of our rapidly changing climate and how we can adapt, not only our gardens but also various aspects of our lifestyles, in an increasingly uncertain world.

Helen Garner on The Season

Helen Garner discusses her latest book, The Season, in which she follows her grandson’s under-16 footy team. In typical Garner style, this book explores many themes - ageing, family, masculinity, and the epic theatre of Australian football. Her sharp observations will be drawn out by her biographer, Sean O’Beirne.