Kalamunda Readers Festival
Friday 20 March 2026 - Sunday 22 March 2026
#1 Opening Night: A Night with the Stars
Friday 20 March 2026
#1 Opening Night: A Night with the Stars
Join us for a sparkling start to the 2026 Kalamunda Readers Festival, with an unforgettable Opening Night that celebrates storytelling, community, great food and local wines.
Overlooking the stunning canopy of trees from the viewing deck of Kalamunda Community Centre, guests will be treated to a curated selection of local wines and a grazing board brimming with regional delights—perfect for mingling with friends and a chance to meet some of our incredible featured Festival Authors. As the sun sets, settle in for the highlight of the night, our Author Panel: From the Outback to the Perth Hills, West Australian Voices, featuring acclaimed Authors Rachael Johns, Sara Foster, Kate Emery & Michael Trant.
Local Wine & Grazing Table: Included with each ticket, are two beverage vouchers which can be used for either our handpicked selection of wines from nearby vineyards or for non-alcoholic beverages. A beautifully arranged grazing table showcasing artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, seasonal fruits, and more will also be available for guests to enjoy.
Whether you're a lifelong book lover or simply curious to hear from some of West Australia’s most coveted literary talents, this is the perfect way to kick off a weekend of literary discovery. Come raise a glass, meet fellow readers and writers, and toast to the stories that bring us together.
Tickets are $40 per adult and includes 2 x beverage vouchers, light catering and admission to the Opening Night panel.
Tickets are limited—reserve your spot and be part of the story!
Kalamunda Community Learning Centre
Saturday Main-Stage Readers Festival Day Pass
Saturday 21 March 2026
Saturday Main-Stage Readers Festival Day Pass
Includes entry to attend all Main-Stage Author talks and presentations at Kalamunda Performing Arts Centre on Saturday 21 March, 2026:
*9:30am - 10:30am, Event #2: In Conversation with Tamara Moss & Marissa Meyer: EXCLUSIVE Pre-Launch of The Escape Game. Interviewed by Nattie Kate Mason,
*12:00pm - 1:00pm, Event #6: Historical Fiction Author Panel: Weaving fact and fiction to bring history to life with Sasha Wasley, Stefanie Koens & Emily Paull,
*2:00pm - 3:00pm, Event #8: Reading and writing women's stories with Rachael Johns,
*3:30pm - 4:30pm, Event #9 From Idea to Ink - How Stories Are Born, with A.J. Betts,
*5:00pm - 6:30pm, Event #10: Murder, Tea and Mystery, with Kate Emery.
*9:00am - 5:00pm: Pass also includes admission into the Halls of Stars - Saturday book signing event.
General Admission Day Pass is $60 per person plus booking fee.
Concession/Seniors Card Holder Day Pass is $50 per person plus booking fee.
Kalamunda Performing Arts Centre
#11 The Hall of Stars: 2-Day Book Signing Event
Between Saturday 21 March 2026 and Sunday 22 March 2026
#11 The Hall of Stars - A Celebration of Local Authors: Kalamunda Readers Festival 2-Day Book Signing Event
Saturday 21 March 9:00am - 5:00pm & Sunday, 22 March 2026, 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Location: Kalamunda Performing Arts Centre - Agricultural Hall
Join us at the Halls of Stars, for a vibrant two-day book signing event celebrating our local West Australian literary talent. Meet and mingle with a stellar lineup of local author stall holders and pick up signed copies of their latest works.
Explore the pop-up book stands from Dymocks and New Dawn Publishing, open all day, offering a wide selection of titles written and illustrated by our featured line-up of incredible Authors and Illustrators presenting talks and workshops across the Kalamunda Readers Festival. Featured Author Signing times vary.
Don't miss this wonderful opportunity to meet our talented WA Authors & Illustrators.
Bookings are essential. Tickets are free or included with Readers Festival Main-Stage Day Passes.
Kalamunda Performing Arts Centre - Agricultural Hall
Weekend Creative Workshop Readers Festival Pass
Saturday 21 March 2026
Weekend Creative Workshop Readers Festival Pass
Includes entry to attend all creative workshops across the weekend (Saturday 21 March 2026 - Sunday 22 March 2026) located at either Kalamunda Library & Zig-Zag Cultural Centre Seminar Room.
KALAMUNDA LIBRARY SESSIONS:
Saturday 21 March, 2026:
*9:30am - 10:30am, Event 3: Stories in the Hills
*12:00pm - 1:00pm, Event 5: How to Get Away with Murder – Crime Writer Workshop with Michael Trant
ZIG-ZAG CULTURAL CENTRE - SEMINAR ROOM SESSIONS:
Saturday 21 March, 2026:
*10:00am - 12:00pm, Event 4: How to Create a Graphic Novel with James Foley
*1:30pm - 3:30pm, Event #7: The Art of Watercolour Illustration with Gabriel Evans
Sunday 22 March, 2026:
*10:00am - 11:00am, Event #13: Masterclass with Megan White: Designing cultures, histories, and magic systems. Writing inclusive, socially aware speculative fiction
*12:00pm - 1:00pm, Event #17 Masterclass: The path to successful independent & hybrid publishing with Demelza Carlton
Weekend Creative Workshop Readers Festival Passes are $60 per person plus booking fee.
Kalamunda Library & Zig-Zag Cultural Centre - Seminar Room
#2 In Conversation with Tamara Moss & Marissa Meyer
Saturday 21 March 2026
#2 In Conversation with Tamara Moss & Marissa Meyer: EXCLUSIVE Pre-Launch of The Escape Game. Interviewed by Nattie Kate Mason.
Step into the thrilling world of The Escape Game before it hits the shelves at this exclusive pre-launch event featuring USA Bestselling Author Marissa Meyer and local rising literary star, Author Tamara Moss.
Join us for an intimate morning of storytelling, suspense, and behind-the-scenes revelations as these two powerhouse Authors join us for a candid conversation about their electrifying new collaboration. From plot twists and character secrets to the creative sparks that brought The Escape Game to life, this is your chance to hear it all—straight from the source-before anyone else! We are very lucky to have Tamara Moss joining us In-Person for this Australian Exclusive Event, with Marissa Meyer joining us from USA via video link.
*Tamara Moss will be signing copies early-release copies of The Escape Game at the Dymocks pop-up stall in the hall of Stars (Agricultural Hall) from 10:30am -11am.
Individual tickets are $20 or admission is included with the Saturday Main-Stage Readers Festival Day Pass.
Kalamunda Performing Arts Centre
#3 Stories in the Hills
Saturday 21 March 2026
#3 Stories in the Hills
Stories in the Hills, is a soul-stirring morning of verse, rhythm, and reflection. This special Kalamunda Readers Festival session brings together a vibrant collective of local poets and writers, each offering a unique perspective on life, nature, and community through the power of the spoken word.
Set in the heart of the hills at Kalamunda Library, this session invites you to slow down and enjoy the cadence of carefully chosen words through this emersive form of storytelling. Whether you're a seasoned poetry lover or simply curious, this is a chance to hear from our incredible local talent.
This free session is proudly sponsored by ALIA with funding from the Community Cohesion Grant. Tickets are required, or admission is included with Creative Workshop Weekend Pass.
Kalamunda Library
#4 How to Create a Graphic Novel with James Foley
Saturday 21 March 2026
#4 How to Create a Graphic Novel with James Foley
Join acclaimed author and illustrator James Foley for an inspiring and hands-on session that unlocks the secrets of graphic novel creation.
In this engaging two hour workshop, James will guide participants through the creative process of creating unforgettable illustration driven stories. Learn how to develop compelling characters, structure a visual narrative, and bring your story to life through illustration and layout.
If you love drawing, are an emerging visual storyteller, or have always wanted to create your own visual story but aren’t sure where to start, this session offers a rare and comprehensive behind-the-scenes look at how graphic novels are made. Whether you're sketching your first panel or dreaming of publishing your own graphic novel, this is your chance to learn from one of Australia’s best.
Let your imagination take shape!
*James Foley will be available to sign books at the Dymocks pop-up stand in the Hall of Stars (Agricultural Hall) from 12:30pm - 1pm.
Suitable for ages 13+. Individual tickets are $20 or admission is included with the Creative Workshop Weekend Pass.
Zig-Zag Cultural Centre - Seminar Room
#5 How to Get Away with Murder, with Michael Trant
Saturday 21 March 2026
#5 How to Get Away with Murder – Crime Writer Workshop with Michael Trant
Step into the gritty world of rural crime fiction with bestselling WA author Michael Trant, whose thrilling novels such as Wild Dogs, and Blood and Gold have redefined the rural crime genre. From rescuing a young man from certain exacution to uncovering a sinister pattern of covered-up murders in the red dust of Western Australia, Michael’s stories will have you on the edge of your seat desperate for more.
In this immersive workshop, Michael will share how he transforms real-life grit into gripping fiction. Learn how to plot a murder that feels disturbingly plausible, build characters with complex motives, and use landscape as a silent accomplice in your crime narrative. Expect practical writing exercises, behind-the-scenes insights, and a few tales from the bush that are stranger than fiction.
*Michael Trant will be available to sign books at the Dymocks pop-up stand in the Hall of Stars (Agricultural Hall) from 1:30PM - 2:00PM.
Individual Tickets are $20 or admission is included with the Weekend Creative Workshop Pass.
Kalamunda Library
#6 Panel: Weaving fact and fiction to bring history to life
Saturday 21 March 2026
#6 Historical Fiction Author Panel: Weaving fact and fiction to bring history to life with Sasha Wasley, Stefanie Koens & Emily Paull
Step into the rich tapestry of the past with this captivating Historical Fiction Author Panel, where storytelling and research blend together and imagination breathes life into history.
Moderated by celebrated local author Sasha Wasley, this session brings together fellow Authors Emily Paull and Stefanie Koens for an insightful conversation on the art of blending historical fact with fictional narrative. Discover how these authors research, interpret, and reimagine real West Australian events and locations to craft compelling stories that resonate with modern readers.
Whether you're a local history buff, an aspiring writer, or simply love a good story, this event promises to illuminate the power of fiction to revive forgotten stories and moments. Come explore how stories keep history alive.
*Panel members will be signing copies of their books after the session, at the Dymocks Festival pop-up stall in the Hall of Stars (Agricultural Hall) from 1:00pm - 1:30pm.
Individual Tickets are $20 or admission is included with the Saturday Main-Stage Readers Festival Day Pass.
Kalamunda Performing Arts Centre
#7 The Art of Watercolour Illustration with Gabriel Evans
Saturday 21 March 2026
#7 The Art of Watercolour Illustration with Gabriel Evans
Discover the magic of storytelling with water colours in this immersive, hands-on workshop led by renowned Author and Illustrator Gabriel Evans. Designed for creatives of all levels, The Art of Watercolour Illustration invites you to explore the expressive potential of watercolour as a medium for visual storytelling.
Through live demonstrations, guided exercises, and personal insights, Gabriel will share his techniques for crafting character, mood, and movement using delicate washes and dynamic linework in this hands-on 2 hour creative masterclass. Learn how to create an illustration from sketch to final artwork, experiment with colour layering, and develop your own illustrative voice.
Whether you're an aspiring illustrator, a curious writer, or simply love to paint, this workshop offers a rare opportunity to learn from one of Australia’s leading picture book artists in a supportive and inspiring setting.
Guests are welcome to bring their own art supplies to use, or basic watercolours, brushes and water colour paper will be available for participants to utilise during the workshop.
*Gabriel Evans will be available to sign books afterwards at the Dymocks pop-up stand in the Hall of Stars (Agricultural Hall) from 4:00pm - 4:30pm.
Individual tickets are $20 or admission is included with the Creative Workshop Weekend Pass.
Zig-Zag Cultural Centre - Seminar Room
#8 Reading and writing women's stories with Rachael Johns
Saturday 21 March 2026
#8 Reading and writing women's stories with Rachael Johns
Stories shape how we see the world—and how we see ourselves. In this powerful and thought-provoking session, iconic West Australian Author Rachael Johns invites readers and writers alike to explore the transformative impact of telling women’s stories.
From the everyday to the extraordinary, women’s experiences have long been underrepresented or misunderstood in literature. This event celebrates the voices that challenge that silence. Rachael will delve into the joys and responsibilities of writing authentic female characters, the importance of representation, and the ways storytelling can empower, heal, and connect.
This session is a rallying call to honour the stories that have shaped us—and to write the ones that still need to be told.
Come ready to reflect, connect, and be inspired.
*Rachael Johns will be signing copies of her books at the Dymocks pop-up stall in the Hall of Stars (Agricultural Hall) from 3:00pm - 3:30pm
Individual tickets are $20 or admission is included with the Saturday Main-Stage Readers Festival Day Pass.
Kalamunda Performing Arts Centre
#9 From Idea to Ink - How Stories Are Born, with A.J. Betts
Saturday 21 March 2026
#9 From Idea to Ink - How Stories Are Born, with A.J. Betts
Join award-winning author A.J. Betts for an inspiring and insightful presentation that dives deep into the creative process behind storytelling.
In From Idea to Ink, A.J. shares how fleeting thoughts, personal experiences, and curious questions evolve into compelling narratives that resonate with readers of all ages.
This is your opportunity to learn how stories are born. This session offers a behind-the-scenes look at the journey from first spark to finished manuscript. Expect candid reflections, writing tips, and a celebration of imagination, hard work and persistence.
Perfect for teens and adults, this event is a must for readers and aspiring authors, curious about how stories are made.
*A.J.Betts will be signing copies of her books at the Dymocks pop-up stall in the Hall of Stars (Agricultural Hall) from 4:30pm - 5:00pm.
Individual tickets are $20 or admission is included with the Saturday Main-Stage Readers Festival Day Pass.
Kalamunda Performing Arts Centre
#10 Murder, Tea and Mystery, with Kate Emery
Saturday 21 March 2026
#10 Murder, Tea and Mystery, with Kate Emery
Step into the world of cosy crime with bestselling, award-winning author Kate Emery, as she shares the secrets behind her charmingly murderous tales. Kate lives in Perth and works as a senior reporter for the West Australian. She is the author of The Not So Chosen One, which was shortlisted for the Text Prize and the Aurealis Awards, and My Family and Other Suspects, which won the 2025 Indie Book Award for YA and the John Marsden Book of the Year for Older Children at the 2025 ABIA awards. Kate's most recent novel: A Murder Is Going Down, released last November.
Join us for an evening of laughs, intrigue and behind-the-scenes insights as Kate discusses her writing journey, the inspiration behind her cosy crime novels, and the art of crafting suspenseful stories that are perfect for teens and adults.
*Kate Emery will be signing copies of her books at the Dymocks pop-up stall in the Hall of Stars (Agricultural Hall) from 4:00pm - 4:30pm, prior to her event.
Individual tickets are $20 or admission is included with the Saturday Main-Stage Readers Festival Day Pass.
Kalamunda Performing Arts Centre
#22 Children's Author & Illustrator Book Signing Event
Sunday 22 March 2026
#22 Kalamunda Readers Festival Children's Day Event: Children's Author & Illustrator 1-Day Book Signing Event
Join us for a joyful celebration of storytelling and creativity at our special Children's Author & Illustrator book signing event!
This special occasion brings together a collective of talented local children's authors and illustrators for a fun-filled day of books, art, and imagination.
Come and meet the creators behind the stories!
Local authors and illustrators will be on hand to sign their books, share insights into their creative process, and inspire young readers and budding artists.
Tickets are free or admission is also included with the Children's Day Event: Sunday Pass.
Kalamunda Community Learning Centre
Kalamunda Readers Festival Children's Day Event: Day Pass
Sunday 22 March 2026
Kalamunda Readers Festival Children's Day Event: Sunday Day Pass
Includes entry to all workshops, events and Children's Author & Illustrator book signing stalls at Kalamunda Community Learning Centre on Sunday 22 March, 2026:
*9:30am - 3:00pm, Children's Author & Illustrator Book signing event: Featuring a collection of wonderful local Children's Authors and Illustrators.
*10:00am - 11:00am, Event #14, Children's Day Workshop: Character Design & Illustration with Gabriel Evans
*11:15am - 12:15pm, Event #15, Children’s Day Workshop: The Thylacine and the Time Machine: Creating comics featuring Tasmanian tigers and other extinct animals with Renée Treml
*12:30pm - 1:00pm, Event #18, Children's Day Event: Storytime with local Children's Authors featuring James Foley & Renée Treml
*1:30pm - 2:30pm, Event #20, Children's Day Workshop: Spontaneous Stories! with James Foley.
General Admission - Day Pass is $20 per person (Children Aged 10 years and over, including Adults).
Kalamunda Community Learning Centre
Sunday Main-Stage Readers Festival Day Pass
Sunday 22 March 2026
Sunday Main-Stage Readers Festival Day Pass
Includes entry to attend all Main-Stage Author talks and presentations at Kalamunda Performing Arts Centre on Sunday 22 March, 2026:
*10:00am - 11:00am, Event #12, In Conversation with Sasha Wasley: EXCLUSIVE Pre-Launch of The Society of Literary Marauders. Interviewed by Nattie Kate Mason.
*11:30am - 12:30pm, Event #16, In Conversation with Sara Foster. Interviewed by Nattie Kate Mason.
*1:15pm - 2:15pm, Event #19, Author Panel: From damsels in distress to strong heroines, the empowering transformation of leading ladies in fiction, with Megan White, Madeline Te Whiu & Nattie Kate Mason.
*3:30pm - 4:30pm, Event #21, Author Panel: The Immersive Power of Stories with Juliet Marillier & Stephen B. Platt. Moderated by Nattie Kate Mason
*9:00am - 5:00pm: Pass also includes admission into the Halls of Stars - Sunday book signing event.
General Admission Day Pass is $60 per person plus booking fee.
Concession/Seniors Card Holder Day Pass is $50 per person plus booking fee.
Kalamunda Performing Arts Centre
#12 In Conversation with Sasha Wasley
Sunday 22 March 2026
#12 In Conversation with Sasha Wasley: EXCLUSIVE Pre-Launch of The Society of Literary Marauders. Interviewed by Nattie Kate Mason.
Join us for a captivating morning with acclaimed author of Snapshots from Home; Sasha Wasley, as she offers an exclusive first look at her upcoming historical fiction novel, The Society of Literary Marauders. A story centred around a secret society of rebellious young women from unlikely backgrounds, who plot to take back the stories they aren’t supposed to read. This richly imagined tale promises to enchant readers with its blend of wit, mystery, and historical depth.
In this intimate pre-launch event, Sasha will share insights into the inspiration behind the novel, her writing process, and the fascinating historical threads woven into the story. Attendees will have the rare opportunity to discover the world of the Literary Marauders before the book hits shelves, with exclusive signed early release copies available for purchase after the event.
Don’t miss this special literary event celebrating banned books, history, and the power of words.
*Sasha Wasley will be signing copies of her books at the Dymocks pop-up stall in the Hall of Stars (Agricultural Hall) from 11:00am - 11:30am
Individual tickets are $20 or admission is included with the Sunday Main-Stage Readers Festival Day Pass.
Kalamunda Performing Arts Centre
#13 Masterclass with Megan White
Sunday 22 March 2026
#13 Masterclass with Megan White: Designing cultures, histories, and magic systems. Writing inclusive, socially aware speculative fiction
Step into the imaginative realms of speculative fiction with NSW fantasy and sci-fi author Megan White in this dynamic and thought-provoking masterclass. Whether you're an emerging writer or a seasoned storyteller, this session will equip you with the tools to build immersive worlds and craft narratives that resonate with modern readers.
Explore the art of designing rich cultures, layered histories, and compelling magic systems that feel authentic and alive.
In this masterclass, you’ll discover:
• Techniques for worldbuilding that reflect diverse perspectives
• How to create believable societies and systems of magic
• Common tropes and ways to avoid stereotypes
• Tips for writing with empathy, nuance, and originality
Bring your imagination, your questions, and your passion for storytelling. This is a must-attend event for anyone looking to elevate their writing.
*Megan White will be available to sign books throughout the weekend at the New Dawn Publishing pop-up stand in the Hall of Stars (Agricultural Hall).
Individual tickets are $20 or admission is included with the Creative Workshop Weekend Pass.
Zig-Zag Cultural Centre - Seminar Room
#14 Character Design & Illustration with Gabriel Evans
Sunday 22 March 2026
#14 Children's Day Workshop: Character Design & Illustration with Gabriel Evans
Join celebrated children’s book Author and Illustrator Gabriel Evans for a relaxed, fun-filled, hands-on workshop where imagination takes centre stage! Perfect for kids aged 10 and up (and their grown-ups!), this 1-hour session invites families to explore the art of character creation and illustration.
Gabriel’s workshop is the opening event of the Kalamunda Readers Festival’s special Children’s Day celebrations at the Kalamunda Community Learning Centre. This special day is designed to inspire the next generation of authors and illustrators, providing a creative atmosphere that welcomes all skill levels.
Gabriel’s workshop is a chance to unleash your creativity and learn some key visual literacy skills. Materials provided—just bring your imagination!
*Gabriel Evans will be available to sign copies of his books at the Dymocks pop-up stand at the Hall of Stars (Kalamunda Performing Arts Centre - Agricultural Hall) from 11:30am - 12:00pm.
Tickets are $10 per person (ages 10 years and up, including adults), or admission is included with the $20 Children’s Day – Day Pass.
Kalamunda Community Learning Centre