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Turbocharging Tourism: War and Words – Australia’s Leading Military Authors in Darwin

Office of the Chief Minister

The Northern Territory’s economy is set to receive a significant boost with the upcoming Territory Tribute International Military Writers’ Festival expected to attract large numbers of visitors to Darwin from 5-7 April 2019.

The Territory Labor Government has allocated more than $1.5 million to Territory Tribute as part of the $103 million Turbocharging Tourism stimulus package in a bid to increase visitation, create jobs and put more money into the pockets of Territorians.

As the centrepiece of Territory Tribute, the three-day writers’ festival will feature author talks, panel discussions and literary sessions with Australia’s leading writers, historians and researchers. Over 20 sessions and 30 prominent military authors including Peter FitzSimons AM and Richard Walsh are included in the ‘War and Words’ themed festival.

A series of new and existing events are also included in Territory Tribute, which is bookended by the Bombing of Darwin Commemoration Ceremony on 19 February and Anzac Day on 25 April 2019.

Tickets prices:

  • Welcoming address by His Excellency General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK MC - FREE
  • Peter FitzSimons opening night address - $45 for adults, $40 concession (plus booking fee)
  • Festival tickets are $15 per session, $12 concession (plus booking fee) with discounts available for five or more sessions.
  • Tickets can be purchased from the Territory Tribute website https://www.territorytribute.com.au/events/international-military-writers-festival/ or through the Darwin Entertainment Centre Box

The welcoming address on Friday, 5 April will be delivered by His Excellency General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK MC.

Peter Forrest and Sheila Forrest are the Writers’ Festival Curators. They are NT based historians and authors, with a collective wealth of knowledge on the Territory’s intriguing past.

For more information on the Territory Tribute visit: www.territorytribute.com.au 

Quotes from Minister for Tourism and Culture, Lauren Moss: 

“Investing in Territory events and festivals allows us to grow visitor numbers and boost the economy, which is why the Territory Labor Government has allocated $1.5 million to Territory Tribute as part of the $103 million Turbocharging Tourism stimulus package.

“Aside from enhancing vibrant lifestyles for Territorians, we know these events draw visitors from all over Australia and we are proud to showcase Darwin as a premier tourist destination.

“Whether you’re a history buff or just wanting to find out more about wartime history, the writers’ festival is the perfect opportunity to learn from some of the nation’s best researchers, historians and writers.

“Military history is a big drawcard for tourists and we have an incredible story to tell – this funding will allow us to promote our story.”

Quotes from International Military Writers' Festival Curators, Peter and Sheila Forrest:

“There will be lots of good words, ideas and inspiration - and lots of conviviality. Such an array of interesting speakers guarantees lively debate and a wonderful sharing of experience.”

Media Contact: Ellie Clancy 0436 646 689

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