Chris Masters

The regional literary festivals have long been a personal favourite, with the Burdekin Readers and Writers Festival at the top of the list.
I am grateful for council investment in intellectual and creative nourishment, which in my view is every bit as sustaining as bricks and mortar.
My sense is the Burdekin Festival has a healthy future, building on the energy and commitment of Mickey McKellar and the other good citizens who have laboured to make it work so well.
The word is getting out. Writers such as myself appreciate the experience of a more intimate connection with the reader. The big city festival patrons can in a sense be overfed and just a touch disengaged.
Townsville, Ayr, Magnetic Island and the like are attractive locations for the creative mind. The best ideas are often born at rest under a palm tree.
I wish the festival a great future and extend my thanks to all who created something special.
Chris Masters