THREE women with a love of reading are the driving force behind the annual event known as the Clare Writers' Festival, or The Write Week.
Bookshop owner Nigelle-Ann Blaser, author Meredith Appleyard and former journalist Nan Berrett – who have been joined on the event's organising committee by Sandra Watson – yearned for a festival for booklovers and writers close to home, with no such opportunities available "between Clare and Salisbury", according to Ms Blaser.
"In hindsight, we realise we were slightly crazy at the time, making a decision to organise and host a new festival without any previous experience," she said.
But with their enthusiasm and "no fear" attitude, the bookloving trio soon had a string of renowned authors lined up for the inaugural event in 2013.
Fast forward to 2015, and this year's festival is shaping up to be just as promising.
Authors confirmed for the November event include Michael Robotham (crime), Ashley Mallett (non-fiction), Jo Spurrier (fantasy), Rachael Johns (Australian rural romance), Sarah Fairhall (Penguin commissioning editor) and patron Fiona McIntosh.
Ms Appleyard will also join the line-up as the Australian rural fiction author.
Held on the last weekend of November, the festival kicks off with a cocktail party launch on the Friday night.
The Saturday involves a full day of workshops, plenary sessions and author talks all run concurrently, and on Saturday evening, a market is held where independent authors can pitch their books, books are available to buy from presenting authors and second-hand books, food, wine and coffee are also available.
On Sunday, the in-demand master class sessions – capped at 30 participants, or 15 a class – are held.
"Clare Writers' Festival is an opportunity for writers and readers to come together, learn, and celebrate their passion for the written word," Ms Appleyard said.
"It's not just about writing – we give regional writers the chance to showcase and promote their work, facilitate forums for schoolchildren to develop their skills and hold a gathering for book groups and writing groups."
Writing is a solitary profession and festivals give writers in the community the chance to come together for support, to share ideas and network.
The encouragement they receive from each other is important and empowering, the festival team said.
"Writers' workshops offer a creative forum for personal and professional growth and skills development and are an essential part of the writers' journey no matter the path they take," Ms Appleyard said.