Local Author Call-out

The showcase has been created to elevate and support local authors, especially emerging creators seeking visibility, confidence, and community connection. Established writers are equally encouraged to participate, share their experience, and engage with readers who are eager to discover local voices.

Organised by the City of Coffs Harbour Libraries, the event will be free for authors and the public and held at Yarrila Place.

Libraries Service Leader Karen Rowe-Nurse said her team values the work and contribution authors make to the literary landscape.

“We’ve identified a need for stronger pathways for local authors and this showcase is our commitment to building a supportive, vibrant literary community,” Ms Rowe-Nurse said.

“If you’re ready to grow your audience, meet readers, and be part of a new regional creative tradition, we’d love to hear from you.”

Ms Rowe-Nurse said authors would receive a stall-holder space in a market-style atmosphere and the opportunity to do a lightning talk about themselves and their writing.

There is also the potential to network with fellow writers and industry contacts and engage with and sell to readers.

Published authors in all genres are welcome, including self-published. Those from outside the Coffs Harbour Local Government Area will be considered, but priority will be given to local authors.

The Coffs Coast Authors’ Showcase is planned to be a biennial event.

“Coffs Harbour Libraries currently has a robust program designed to support and promote the literary knowledge and opportunities of our growing and established authors, however we also recognise a need to provide a way to support our local authors via skills development, visibility and community networking opportunities,” Ms Rowe-Nurse said.

Author expressions of interest are due by 11.59pm on Sunday 17 October.  Enquiries can be directed to library.programs@chcc.nsw.gov.au  or call the library on (02) 6648 4900