About Us
The Southern Highlands Writers’ Festival (SHWF) was established in 2012 in the NSW country town of Bowral. Over the years the SHWF has attracted some of Australia’s leading writers and thinkers. Past speakers have included Mike Carlton, Robert Dessaix, Nikki Gemmell, David Malouf and Don Watson.
The SHWF is produced by Southern Highlands-based Creative & Co, a dynamic, collaborative group of artists working together to craft unique entertainment.
Our Core Team
Michaela Bolzan
Artistic Director
Michaela is the creative force behind the Southern Highlands Writers’ Festival. A multidisciplinary storyteller, she works as a writer, producer and director, with a passion for exploring ideas across a range of creative forms.
Michaela holds a BA (Hons) in Drama from the University of Newcastle and is a graduate of the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) Writing for Performance program. She has served as Artistic Director of both the Rose Scott Women Writers’ Festival and the Canberra Writers’ Festival, shaping dynamic programs that champion diverse voices and compelling storytelling.
James Norton
Art Director & 2IC
James has shaped the look and feel of SHWF since its inception, bringing a distinctive creative vision to the festival’s identity.
James is the founder of JND, a studio specialising in visual identity design for social impact and renewable technology organisations. Alongside his design work, James is the creator of The Adventures of Little James, a story world that encourages people to slow down and find meaning in the small, everyday moments.
Saneia Norton
Front of House Manager
Since the Festival began in 2012, Saneia has led Front of House with style, efficiency and warmth, playing a key role in the professionalism of this volunteer-run event.
Saneia is the Founder and Director of Saneia Norton Design Communication, where she helps designers become more confident, effective communicators. She hosts the podcast Dig Beneath Design, where leading designers reveal the communication strategies behind their work.