Gifted will enable Outspoken Maleny, an established extended writer’s festival, to continue delivering high-quality author lead events in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland throughout 2025, paying speaker fees for both marquee and emerging authors. By supporting events featuring in-depth conversations with local, national, and international writers, the Gifted program will help Outspoken maintain its vital role in fostering intelligent debate, supporting local literary talent, and providing accessible cultural experiences to a growing audience, both in person and through their free podcast recordings.