The successful three-day event was a unique chance to showcase local talent, and celebrate reading, writing and fun times amongst young and old. 

Among the celebrated locals were Sacred Heart Central School students Lilly Deep and Charly Thompson, who both entered the primary category of the poetry competition.

Students from schools around the region were invited to write a poem about a local place.

Lilly Deep’s exciting poem “Coota Beach” was awarded first place, and Charly Thompson received a highly commended with his chilling poem “Monte Christo”.

The festival culminated on the final day with a stunning “Under the Windmill” concert performed by local artists of every age, during which Lilly had the honour of having her poem recited by the very talented Bob Guy.

Both students were thrilled with their awards and plan to continue with their love of writing. 

“The school was extremely proud and supportive of both students,” Sacred Heart stage two teacher Siobhan Bear said.

“Their success was a testament to their hard work, creative thinking and effort.” 

The first day of the festival on Friday was a celebration of small schools as 90 students from Bongongo, Brungle, Jugiong, Gundagai South and Wee Jasper Public Schools came together to celebrate writing.

Students dressed in bush clothes and had the opportunity to meet authors and illustrators, appreciate their work and develop skills in communicating their own ideas.

Festival organiser Joy Coggan said the entire long weekend was a successful event for the region, most notably with about 100 in attendance on Saturday.

“A writer from The Land told me it’s one of four rural writers’ festivals, and we’re right up the top of the pack in our very first year,” Mrs Coggan said.

She thanked the Harden District Education Fund for their generous support, and indicated the next festival would take place in a separate year to the biennial Jugiong Art Exhibition.