Local writer shares wisdom at literary festival

Among the acclaimed authors gathering for this year’s Readers and Writers Festival, one familiar face brings Margaret River’s own literary voice to the conversation.

Ana Brawls, local librarian and bilingual writer, joins an impressive lineup of writers from across Australia and around the world, sharing her unique perspective on crafting compelling stories.

“There are so many incredible writers in this year’s festival; I feel pretty overwhelmed to be among such renowned authors,” Ana said.

“Being part of this event in my hometown makes it even more special.”

Ana’s own story weaves between cultures.

Originally from Brazil, her writing explores family, myths, and belonging through the lens of Brazilian diaspora and multicultural experiences.

Her work has been featured in literary magazines and anthologies across two continents, including the Australian Poetry Anthology, Westerly Magazine, and Portside Review.

Recent achievements highlight her growing literary presence.

Selected for the Writing Change, Writing Inclusion Mentoring Program with Perth’s Centre for Stories, Ana later received their Writing Fellowship and was named a recipient of the inaugural Caruso Writers-in-Residency at Susanna Katherine Prichard Writer’s Centre.

In late 2023, the Neilma Sidney Literary Travel Fund supported her research into the historical and modern aspects of slavery for her second manuscript.

Research breathes life into storytelling, a truth Ana knows well.

“Research gave me the ability to understand the world I wanted to build,” she said.

“It provided the confidence to explore topics in-depth and honour those I encountered along the way. Proper research inspires and helps you understand characters and their worlds more profoundly.”

This personal insight is the foundation for her upcoming workshop, ‘Weaving Truth into Story,’ scheduled for Friday, May 2, at the Augusta Community Resource Centre.

The two-hour, hands-on session guides writers through creative approaches to deepen character development and enhance story settings, helping them blend factual truth with emotional authenticity.

“Even with well-planned research, serendipity became my favourite word; many discoveries happened by chance.

“Research provides purpose and direction, especially when feeling unmotivated or uninspired.

“Since returning from my latest research trip, I’ve produced poetry and short stories and completed the first draft of a manuscript in less than a year!”

Participants will develop their own research toolkit through practical exercises, engaging discussions, and real-world examples.

“For this festival, I’ve expanded the focus to include ways of transforming raw facts into compelling narratives. I hope writers leave with fresh approaches to enriching their stories through meaningful research,” Ana said.

As a librarian and writer, Ana finds immense joy in sharing knowledge.

“I love bringing people together who share similar interests. It’s a two-way road – there’s always something to learn when sharing information.”

Previous workshop participants praise her approach, with one noting, “You have so much experience, and it really shone through! Thanks to you, I now have a way forward with my own research.”

The free workshop runs from 10:30am to 12:30pm at the Augusta Community Resource Centre.

Although it is not included in the Weekend Pass, it provides writers a special opportunity to enhance their research skills while learning from one of Margaret River’s rising literary talents.

For more information or to secure your spot in Ana’s workshop, visit mrrwfestival.com