Outspoken’s program of author events for 2023 kicks off with two exceptional writers – Dr Chris Sarra in February and Alexander McCall Smith in March.
Dr Chris Sarra is a Gurang Gurang/Taribelang man, a former Queenslander of the Year, and the author of Good Morning, Mr Sarra, a memoir that tells the story of how a young boy from Bundaberg grew up to become Principal of the Cherbourg School. It was there he began to develop the concept of stronger, smarter, an idea which radically changed teaching both in Queensland and around the country. At present Chris holds a senior position in the Queensland Government. He remains Chairman of the Stronger Smarter Institute.
We’re more than simply delighted to have Chris come to Maleny to talk about his book, but also, in this year when a referendum on a Voice to Parliament is to be held, to talk about what are often considered the three pillars of effective reconciliation: Treaty, Truth-telling and the Voice.
Alexander McCall Smith, often referred to as ‘Sandy’, is one of the world’s most prolific and best-loved authors. As a professor of Medical Law he worked in universities in the UK and abroad before turning his hand to writing fiction. He has written more than 100 books including specialist academic titles, short story collections, and a number of immensely popular children’s books. But it was the publication of the highly successful The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency series, twenty-five years ago, that made Sandy a household name. The series has now sold over 20m copies in English alone.
His various series of books have been translated into forty-six languages and become bestsellers throughout the world. These include the popular 44 Scotland Street novels, first published as a serial novel in the Scotsman newspaper and now the longest-running serial novel in the world; the Isabel Dalhousie novels, and the von Igelfeld series. He is also the author of the Corduroy Mansions series, which started life as an engaging cross-media serial written for the Telegraph online. Most recently, he launched the Ulf Varg series of Scandi blanc novels set in Sweden.
This is Sandy’s third visit to Maleny for Outspoken – returning, as they say, by popular demand. Both these events are likely to sell out. Book now to avoid disappointment. Tickets can be purchased through Outspoken Maleny’s website or Trybooking.
Dr Chris Sarra
Wednesday February 1st,
6 for 6.30pm
Maleny Community Centre
Tickets $25, $18 for students
Alexander McCall Smith
Friday 10th March
Maleny Primary School Hall
(please note the venue)
6 for 6.30pm
Tickets $25, $18 for students
And, introducing, James Kirby.
