About us

The Southern Highlands Writers’ Festival was established in 2012 in the NSW country town of Bowral. Over the past decade, the Festival 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. 

Creative & Co is a dynamic, collaborative group of artists working together to craft unique entertainment and retail experiences. The core team includes:

Meet the team

Michaela Bolzan

Festival Director

Michaela is the brainchild behind Creative & Co, the Southern Highlands Writers’ Festival and the Southern Highlands Festival of Lights. As a writer, producer, director and occasional actor, Michaela loves exploring creativity across various platforms. Michaela has a BA Hons (Drama) from the University of Newcastle and is a graduated of the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) Playwrights’ Studio. This will be Michaela the tenth SHWF Michaela has programmed; she has also been the Creative Director of the Rose Scott Women Writers’ Festival and the Canberra Writers’ Festival.

James Norton

Art Director

James is the creative brain behind the look and feel of Creative & Co and all the events we produce. He has been designing for over twenty years working with clients across the medical, pharmaceutical, retail and airline industries. James is also the creator of the story world The Adventures of Little James that inspires people to appreciate the small things in life.

Saneia Norton

Front of House Manager

For most of the year, Saneia runs Saneia Norton Design Communication, empowering designers to become stronger communicators. Now, for the ninth time, Saneia takes on the role of Front of House Manager for the Southern Highlands Writers’ Festival. Thanks to her bubbly personality and attention to detail, Saneia will make your SHWF experience seamless.