Choose your tickets
FRIDAY - 24 OCTOBER
Festival Opening Night - General Admission ticket
Friday 24 October 6.00pm - 8.00pm Geraldton Regional Library It’s party night at the Library! Kick off Big Sky 2025 in style. Meet our special guests, enjoy live music, fun, laughter and light refreshments. The winners in the Big Sky Short Story Prize 2025 will be announced.
Friday 24 October 6.00pm - 8.00pm Geraldton Regional Library It’s party night at the Library! Kick off Big Sky 2025 in style. Meet our special guests, enjoy live music, fun, laughter and light refreshments. The winners in the Big Sky Short Story Prize 2025 will be announced.
Free
SATURDAY - 25 OCTOBER
Tasma Walton and Catherine Greer, in conversation with Gillian O’Shaughnessy ticket
Saturday 25 October 9.15am - 10.15am Queens Park Theatre A dynamic panel of women writers whose work spans genres and generations. From fiction that reimagines the world to memoirs that reveal its truths, join Tasma Walton, Catherine Greer and Gillian O’Shaughnessy as they share their journeys, creative processes, and the stories behind their stories.
Saturday 25 October 9.15am - 10.15am Queens Park Theatre A dynamic panel of women writers whose work spans genres and generations. From fiction that reimagines the world to memoirs that reveal its truths, join Tasma Walton, Catherine Greer and Gillian O’Shaughnessy as they share their journeys, creative processes, and the stories behind their stories.
FreeA Musical Storytelling Adventure - Saturday ticket
Saturday 25 October 10.00am - 11.00am Geraldton Regional Library In this lively, interactive workshop, participants will explore the art of storytelling through music-making activities with Kristy Nita Brown. Create your own kazoo, learn to whistle, and discover the world of independent publishing — all while having fun! The session ends with a joyful “kazoo choir” performance you won’t want to miss! Suitable for ages 5-10 years. Please note: We request that children are accompanied by a parent/carer for this session
Saturday 25 October 10.00am - 11.00am Geraldton Regional Library In this lively, interactive workshop, participants will explore the art of storytelling through music-making activities with Kristy Nita Brown. Create your own kazoo, learn to whistle, and discover the world of independent publishing — all while having fun! The session ends with a joyful “kazoo choir” performance you won’t want to miss! Suitable for ages 5-10 years. Please note: We request that children are accompanied by a parent/carer for this session
FreeArtist Floor Talk with Amelia Jajko ticket
Saturday 25 October 10.00am - 11.00am Geraldton Regional Art Gallery Join us at GRAG for an exciting Artist Talk with Amelia Jajko. As a self-taught artist living in Rubibi/Broome WA, Jajko is inspired by the remote Kimberley landscape, using colour and light to capture the interconnectedness of the land and community.
Saturday 25 October 10.00am - 11.00am Geraldton Regional Art Gallery Join us at GRAG for an exciting Artist Talk with Amelia Jajko. As a self-taught artist living in Rubibi/Broome WA, Jajko is inspired by the remote Kimberley landscape, using colour and light to capture the interconnectedness of the land and community.
FreePlot versus Character ticket
Saturday 25 October 10.30am - 11.30am Queens Park Theatre What drives your story? Is it a riveting plot, a fascinating cast of characters, or both? What is it that gives narrative depth and meaning? In this the 20th year of Big Sky, what kinds of stories still resonate with us the most? Join Michael Trant, in conversation with Dave Warner, Mabel Gibson and Stefanie Koens as they discuss how they craft their work for maximum impact.
Saturday 25 October 10.30am - 11.30am Queens Park Theatre What drives your story? Is it a riveting plot, a fascinating cast of characters, or both? What is it that gives narrative depth and meaning? In this the 20th year of Big Sky, what kinds of stories still resonate with us the most? Join Michael Trant, in conversation with Dave Warner, Mabel Gibson and Stefanie Koens as they discuss how they craft their work for maximum impact.
FreeWriting Workshop - Tweaking the Truth ticket
Saturday 25 October 10.30am - 12.30pm Queens Park Theatre How often have you said, or heard someone say, ‘I could never write that story. It would upset too many people’? Jon Doust has written three novels based on his life and the lives of people around him. In Tweaking the Truth, he shows how to start with truths that can’t be told, then tweak and twist them to create a work of fiction that can sometimes reveal deeper truths. Includes morning tea
Saturday 25 October 10.30am - 12.30pm Queens Park Theatre How often have you said, or heard someone say, ‘I could never write that story. It would upset too many people’? Jon Doust has written three novels based on his life and the lives of people around him. In Tweaking the Truth, he shows how to start with truths that can’t be told, then tweak and twist them to create a work of fiction that can sometimes reveal deeper truths. Includes morning tea
$25.00Storytelling for Grown-ups ticket
Saturday 25 October 11.45am - 12.30pm Queens Park Theatre Who says the kids should have all the fun? Storyteller extraordinaire Glenn B. Swift will get you moving as you join in with storytelling hijinks!
Saturday 25 October 11.45am - 12.30pm Queens Park Theatre Who says the kids should have all the fun? Storyteller extraordinaire Glenn B. Swift will get you moving as you join in with storytelling hijinks!
FreeImagination in Focus ticket
Saturday 25 October 2.15pm - 3.30pm Queens Park Theatre United by their love for showcasing beautiful landscapes and exploring everyday stories through the lens, learn how our panel transform fleeting scenes into compelling visual narratives. Join Michael Haluwana, Karl Monaghan and Tamati Smith, in conversation with Trudi Cornish.
Saturday 25 October 2.15pm - 3.30pm Queens Park Theatre United by their love for showcasing beautiful landscapes and exploring everyday stories through the lens, learn how our panel transform fleeting scenes into compelling visual narratives. Join Michael Haluwana, Karl Monaghan and Tamati Smith, in conversation with Trudi Cornish.
FreeCelebrating Stow: En Plein Air Painting Workshop ticket
Saturday 25 October 2.00pm - 5.00pm Meet in the Stow Gardens, behind the Merry-Go-Round In 2025 Randolph Stow’s iconic novel The Merry-Go-Round in the Sea celebrates 60 years of publication (Right: 1965 cover design). Capture the emotional and sensory dimensions of Stow’s beloved Geraldton Foreshore by joining Amelia Jajko for an open air painting workshop. Bring your own paintbrushes and a sketchbook. Selection of oil paints provided.
Saturday 25 October 2.00pm - 5.00pm Meet in the Stow Gardens, behind the Merry-Go-Round In 2025 Randolph Stow’s iconic novel The Merry-Go-Round in the Sea celebrates 60 years of publication (Right: 1965 cover design). Capture the emotional and sensory dimensions of Stow’s beloved Geraldton Foreshore by joining Amelia Jajko for an open air painting workshop. Bring your own paintbrushes and a sketchbook. Selection of oil paints provided.
$45.00Sisters in Crime - Launch of the new WA Chapter ticket
Saturday 25 October 4.00pm - 6.00pm Batavia Brewery For dinner, please book directly with Batavia Brewing, 60 Fitzgerald Street, Geraldton Phone: 9921 8296 Email: bookings@bataviabrewing.com.au Join Co-Convenors and WA crime fiction authors, Dawn Farnham (Perth), Lisa Ellery (Kalgoorlie) and emerging local fiction talent, Sam McKinnon, in conversation as we launch the new Western Australian Chapter of Sisters in Crime Australia, connecting women crime fighters and writers with all readers and viewers across the State. Then step inside the world of real life crime solving with an exclusive conversation with women speakers from the local police community, as we get the low down on what it really takes to keep Geraldton safe and find out whether truth is stranger than fiction.
Saturday 25 October 4.00pm - 6.00pm Batavia Brewery For dinner, please book directly with Batavia Brewing, 60 Fitzgerald Street, Geraldton Phone: 9921 8296 Email: bookings@bataviabrewing.com.au Join Co-Convenors and WA crime fiction authors, Dawn Farnham (Perth), Lisa Ellery (Kalgoorlie) and emerging local fiction talent, Sam McKinnon, in conversation as we launch the new Western Australian Chapter of Sisters in Crime Australia, connecting women crime fighters and writers with all readers and viewers across the State. Then step inside the world of real life crime solving with an exclusive conversation with women speakers from the local police community, as we get the low down on what it really takes to keep Geraldton safe and find out whether truth is stranger than fiction.
FreeBook Club Night In! ticket
Saturday 25 October 6.00pm - 7.30pm Geraldton Regional Art Gallery Engage and share your love of reading with new friends and old. Create and Sip! Join us in celebrating all that is Book Club and all that is Big Sky in our inspirational Gallery space. Create your own journal cover in the company of special guests, Catherine Greer and Stefanie Koens. Materials and refreshments included.
Saturday 25 October 6.00pm - 7.30pm Geraldton Regional Art Gallery Engage and share your love of reading with new friends and old. Create and Sip! Join us in celebrating all that is Book Club and all that is Big Sky in our inspirational Gallery space. Create your own journal cover in the company of special guests, Catherine Greer and Stefanie Koens. Materials and refreshments included.
$15.00Riff and Rhyme - Poetry at the Club ticket
Saturday 25 October Start Time: 6.30pm The Merc Lounge Rock it out at the Mercantile with iconic Aussie punk and new wave musician and songwriter, Dave Warner From the Suburbs and guitarist Tony Durant. Get set for a lively, perhaps even slightly chaotic, atmosphere where poetry takes centre stage. Includes Open Mic with M/C’s Glenn B. Swift and Michael Trant. Canapes by Flow. Bar by The Merc Lounge.
Saturday 25 October Start Time: 6.30pm The Merc Lounge Rock it out at the Mercantile with iconic Aussie punk and new wave musician and songwriter, Dave Warner From the Suburbs and guitarist Tony Durant. Get set for a lively, perhaps even slightly chaotic, atmosphere where poetry takes centre stage. Includes Open Mic with M/C’s Glenn B. Swift and Michael Trant. Canapes by Flow. Bar by The Merc Lounge.
$45.00
SUNDAY - 26 OCTOBER
Short and Sweet: Finding Your Voice in Flash Fiction ticket
Sunday 26 October 9.15am - 11.15am Geraldton Regional Library Flash-fiction is the perfect entry point for writers to find wings in a crowded literary space. But how do you start, and what do you write about? Is there a 'right' way to create flash-fiction, and where do you send or publish it when it's ready to go? In this workshop, award-winning flash-fiction polymath Gillian O'Shaughnessy takes you through the ins and outs of flash-fiction, illuminating ways in which to write, dream and uniquely express yourself. Along the way, she'll show you all that sometimes a few words are all you need to create a stirring, compelling piece of work. Includes morning tea.
Sunday 26 October 9.15am - 11.15am Geraldton Regional Library Flash-fiction is the perfect entry point for writers to find wings in a crowded literary space. But how do you start, and what do you write about? Is there a 'right' way to create flash-fiction, and where do you send or publish it when it's ready to go? In this workshop, award-winning flash-fiction polymath Gillian O'Shaughnessy takes you through the ins and outs of flash-fiction, illuminating ways in which to write, dream and uniquely express yourself. Along the way, she'll show you all that sometimes a few words are all you need to create a stirring, compelling piece of work. Includes morning tea.
$25.00Speed Dating with the Authors ticket
Sunday 26 October 10.00am - 11.30am Geraldton Regional Library Featuring special guest authors Tasma Walton, Catherine Greer, Michael Trant, Mabel Gibson, Dave Warner and Jon Doust Enjoy fast paced conversations over delicious morning treats. Discover what inspires our special guests and maybe find your next great read! Have your questions ready as our special guest authors come to you.
Sunday 26 October 10.00am - 11.30am Geraldton Regional Library Featuring special guest authors Tasma Walton, Catherine Greer, Michael Trant, Mabel Gibson, Dave Warner and Jon Doust Enjoy fast paced conversations over delicious morning treats. Discover what inspires our special guests and maybe find your next great read! Have your questions ready as our special guest authors come to you.
$30.00A Musical Storytelling Adventure - Sunday ticket
Sunday 26 October 10.30am - 11.30am Geraldton Regional Library Create your own kazoo with Kristy Nita Brown, learn to whistle, and discover the world of independent publishing — all while having fun! The session ends with a joyful “kazoo choir” performance you won’t want to miss! Suitable for ages 5-10 years. Please note: We request that children are accompanied by a parent/carer for these sessions.
Sunday 26 October 10.30am - 11.30am Geraldton Regional Library Create your own kazoo with Kristy Nita Brown, learn to whistle, and discover the world of independent publishing — all while having fun! The session ends with a joyful “kazoo choir” performance you won’t want to miss! Suitable for ages 5-10 years. Please note: We request that children are accompanied by a parent/carer for these sessions.
FreeDuck on a Bike - Story and Scoot (10.00am - 10.30am) ticket
Sunday 26 October Edith Cowan Square Schedule: 10:00 AM – Session 1 10:30 AM – Session 2 11:00 AM – Session 3 11:30 AM – Session 4 Suitable for kids aged 4 to 7. Bring your bikes or scooters to Edith Cowan Square and enjoy a lively reading of David Shannon’s charming book, coupled with active participation. As we turn each page, we’ll scoot to the next spot, embracing the joy of movement and storytelling.
Sunday 26 October Edith Cowan Square Schedule: 10:00 AM – Session 1 10:30 AM – Session 2 11:00 AM – Session 3 11:30 AM – Session 4 Suitable for kids aged 4 to 7. Bring your bikes or scooters to Edith Cowan Square and enjoy a lively reading of David Shannon’s charming book, coupled with active participation. As we turn each page, we’ll scoot to the next spot, embracing the joy of movement and storytelling.
FreeDuck on a Bike - Story and Scoot (10.30am - 11.00am) ticket
Sunday 26 October Edith Cowan Square Schedule: 10:00 AM – Session 1 10:30 AM – Session 2 11:00 AM – Session 3 11:30 AM – Session 4 Suitable for kids aged 4 to 7. Bring your bikes or scooters to Edith Cowan Square and enjoy a lively reading of David Shannon’s charming book, coupled with active participation. As we turn each page, we’ll scoot to the next spot, embracing the joy of movement and storytelling.
Sunday 26 October Edith Cowan Square Schedule: 10:00 AM – Session 1 10:30 AM – Session 2 11:00 AM – Session 3 11:30 AM – Session 4 Suitable for kids aged 4 to 7. Bring your bikes or scooters to Edith Cowan Square and enjoy a lively reading of David Shannon’s charming book, coupled with active participation. As we turn each page, we’ll scoot to the next spot, embracing the joy of movement and storytelling.
FreeDuck on a Bike - Story and Scoot (11.00am - 11.30am) ticket
Sunday 26 October Edith Cowan Square Schedule: 10:00 AM – Session 1 10:30 AM – Session 2 11:00 AM – Session 3 11:30 AM – Session 4 Suitable for kids aged 4 to 7. Bring your bikes or scooters to Edith Cowan Square and enjoy a lively reading of David Shannon’s charming book, coupled with active participation. As we turn each page, we’ll scoot to the next spot, embracing the joy of movement and storytelling.
Sunday 26 October Edith Cowan Square Schedule: 10:00 AM – Session 1 10:30 AM – Session 2 11:00 AM – Session 3 11:30 AM – Session 4 Suitable for kids aged 4 to 7. Bring your bikes or scooters to Edith Cowan Square and enjoy a lively reading of David Shannon’s charming book, coupled with active participation. As we turn each page, we’ll scoot to the next spot, embracing the joy of movement and storytelling.
FreeDuck on a Bike - Story and Scoot (11.30am - 12.00pm) ticket
Sunday 26 October Edith Cowan Square Schedule: 10:00 AM – Session 1 10:30 AM – Session 2 11:00 AM – Session 3 11:30 AM – Session 4 Suitable for kids aged 4 to 7. Bring your bikes or scooters to Edith Cowan Square and enjoy a lively reading of David Shannon’s charming book, coupled with active participation. As we turn each page, we’ll scoot to the next spot, embracing the joy of movement and storytelling.
Sunday 26 October Edith Cowan Square Schedule: 10:00 AM – Session 1 10:30 AM – Session 2 11:00 AM – Session 3 11:30 AM – Session 4 Suitable for kids aged 4 to 7. Bring your bikes or scooters to Edith Cowan Square and enjoy a lively reading of David Shannon’s charming book, coupled with active participation. As we turn each page, we’ll scoot to the next spot, embracing the joy of movement and storytelling.
FreeReadings on the Green - Festival Finale ticket
Sunday 26 October 1.00pm - 3.00pm Greenough Museums and Gardens Spend a glorious afternoon wandering the beautiful grounds and basking in the ambience of the historic Greenough Museum and Gardens. Sit back, relax and enjoy our Festival Finale, with a selection of readings from special guests. Featuring Stefanie Koens, Gillian O’Shaughnessy and Mabel Gibson plus local authors, Serena Moss and KT Downs. Geraldton Tree Canopy Advocates annual art exhibition Birds in Trees will be on display in the Community Hub. Enjoy afternoon tea provided by the Community Group of Greenough.
Sunday 26 October 1.00pm - 3.00pm Greenough Museums and Gardens Spend a glorious afternoon wandering the beautiful grounds and basking in the ambience of the historic Greenough Museum and Gardens. Sit back, relax and enjoy our Festival Finale, with a selection of readings from special guests. Featuring Stefanie Koens, Gillian O’Shaughnessy and Mabel Gibson plus local authors, Serena Moss and KT Downs. Geraldton Tree Canopy Advocates annual art exhibition Birds in Trees will be on display in the Community Hub. Enjoy afternoon tea provided by the Community Group of Greenough.
Free
