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Queensland poetry

State Library celebrates the work of Queensland poets of the past and today. Discover the words of diverse communities, find poetry events near you, learn about prizes and opportunities, and borrow award-winning titles.

Watch the 2024 Queensland Poetry Month Showcase

Presented in partnership with Red Room Poetry as part of Poetry Month 2024. Enjoy award-winning author Ellen van Neerven, acclaimed poet Damen O'Brien, Brotherhood of the Wordless star Mike Russell, 2023 Helen Anne Bell Poetry Bequest winner Svetlana Sterlin, Oodgeroo Noonuccal Prize prize winning poet Cheryl Leavy and critic and poet Mindy Gill for this annual showcase of some of Queensland's finest contemporary poetry and spoken word. Hosted by Pascalle Burton with a special guest musical set by 2024 QMA World Music winner Taitu’uga. The event was staged on 16 August 2024 at State Library of Queensland. Image: Taitu'uga performs, 2024, Josie Huang, State Library of Queensland
Watch
Taitu'uga performs
a performer standing behind a microphone with red and yellow stage lights in the background
Queensland poetry awards
Queensland’s renowned poetry awards are returning for 2024, administered by Queensland Writers Centre (QWC).
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Lionel Fogarty at the 2023 Queensland Literary Awards. He stands in a study room with lamps. He is smiling and holding a copy of his book
Judith Wright Calanthe Award for a Poetry Collection
As part of the Queensland Literary Awards, this award is for an outstanding collection of poetry by an Australian poet.
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Samuel Wagan Watson headshot
Samuel Wagan Watson’s Landing Echo
Learn about John Oxley's journey up the Brisbane River with Samuel Wagan Watson's poem, amplifying First Nations voices.
Learn more

Borrow poetry

Parts of Speech book cover.

Parts of Speech
By Angela Gardner

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Throat book cover

Throat
By Ellen van Neerven

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The Jaguar book cover.

The Jaguar
By Sarah Holland-Batt

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Fire Front: First Nations poetry and power today book cover

Fire Front: First Nations poetry and power today
Edited by Alison Whittaker

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The Exclusion Zone illustrated book cover.

The Exclusion Zone
By Shastra Deo

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At the Altar of Touch illustrated book cover.

At the Altar of Touch
By Gavin Yuan Gao

Borrow