Canberra Writers Festival cancelled

The Canberra Writers Festival has announced the event will not go ahead in 2021.

The announcement follows an earlier postponement of the festival due to Covid outbreaks. In a statement, the festival confirmed the ongoing Covid lockdowns ‘mean that the festival cannot proceed this year’.

Festival director Paul Donohoe and artistic director Jeanne Ryckmans said they would not risk the health and safety of the festival’s audience and artists and that ongoing uncertainty meant it was doubtful the festival could be held at any time in what remains of 2021.

‘But we are not deflated. Indeed, the outpouring of goodwill from our supporters and the community propels us on to planning the next Canberra Writers’ Festival in August 2022,’ said Donohoe.

‘The festival depends on support from our partners and sponsors. They have been steadfast at every turn, and we are deeply grateful for their continued loyalty. Our thanks go to every author, moderator, publicist, publisher, and our booksellers for their belief and participation in the festival. We look forward to welcoming everyone when it is safe for us to gather again.’

Category: Local news