Goolarri Writers Program
Developing Indigenous writers and storytellers
About the Program
The Goolarri Writers Program has been developing the professional skills of Indigenous writers and creators since 2014, to create plays, screen productions and various published works.
It is a welcoming and thriving space for Broome and Kimberley based First Nations creatives to learn about the various aspects of writing and story making crafts, and to creatively develop projects – small and large in scale - in a supportive and nurturing environment. Our writers have been successfully supported to apply for grants, scholarships and residencies.
Amongst our group are stage and screen writers, directors, film makers, and others developing poetry, memoir and short stories. Our writers’ works have screened on SBS, ABC, NITV and via national and international film festivals including Sydney and Melbourne International Film Festivals, Cinefest Oz, St Kilda, Birraranga and ImagiNative Canada.
Our writers' films have screened on SBS, ABC, NITV and via national and international film festivals; plays have been produced and workshopped with Yirra Yaakin Theatre, Bundanon Artists Retreat, Mooghalin Performing Arts, ILBIJERRI Theatre Company and Varuna Writers House.
Goolarri Writers Group is steered by co-facilitators, screenwriter Dot West and playwright/dramaturg Mari Lourey in consultation with the group. Skills and learning are delivered by industry professionals via a combination of individual mentoring, peer to peer learning, industry ‘nuts and bolts’ sessions, workshops, masterclasses and connections with industry networks across the country.
Screen Success
Films on SBS, ABC, NITV & film festivals
Stage Productions
Collaborations with leading theatre companies
Published Works
Poetry, memoir, short stories & more
Collaborative Workshops
Writers work together in supportive sessions, sharing feedback and developing their craft through peer-to-peer learning.
Industry Mentorship
One-on-one sessions with experienced professionals guide writers through script development and production processes.
Production Outcomes
From script to screen and stage, our writers see their stories come to life through professional productions.
How We Work
Skills and learning delivered by industry professionals
Individual Mentoring
One-on-one guidance tailored to your project and creative goals.
Peer to Peer Learning
Collaborate and learn from fellow writers in a supportive community.
Industry 'Nuts and Bolts'
Practical sessions on the business side of writing and production.
Workshops & Masterclasses
Learn from experienced professionals across various writing crafts.
Industry Networks
Connect with industry partners and professionals across the country.
Learning by Doing
Develop concrete skills through hands-on creative development.
Current Partners
Currently in Development
Exciting new works from our writers
Because We're Blak
In co-production with ILBIJERRI Theatre Company, this powerful new work will premiere on May 28, 2026.
Anthology of Works
A collection of works by Goolarri writers to be published by Magabala Books.
Film Projects
Various film projects in development with RAMU Films and other production partners.
Previous Productions
Our writers' works have screened on SBS, ABC, NITV and at national and international film festivals. Plays have been produced with Yirra Yaakin Theatre, Bundanon Artists Retreat, Mooghalin Performing Arts, ILBIJERRI Theatre Company and Varuna Writers House.
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Ready to Join?
Goolarri Writers Group meets regularly throughout the year with a break over wet season. If you want to develop the skills and nuts and bolts of craft to create professional work, then get in contact with us.
Get in Touch