The next chapter of Lifeline’s Brisbane Bookfest begins
- Back bigger than ever after COVID cancelled January’s event
- Bulging warehouses mean more there will be more books than ever before
- Free to enter
- Opportunities to be involved in this iconic event
Brisbane booklovers get ready, as Lifeline’s much-loved Bookfest stages its triumphant return at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre from Saturday, 4 June.
Following three cancellations in two years, with the most recent Brisbane Bookfest paused before it could begin in January, the June event marks a new chapter in the history of the largest book fair in the southern hemisphere.
Spanning across nine days, the June 2022 Bookfest will contain over 4 kilometres of books for people to browse through, with every purchase directly supporting Lifeline's 24-hour Crisis Support & Suicide Prevention Services.
Lifeline Retail General Manager Jamie Mackay said preparations for the triumphant return of the event were well underway.
"We are thrilled to be coming back. We know how much this event means to the community, and how much we rely on it to support our vital crisis support services. We cannot wait to welcome everyone back,” he said.
Mr Mackay explained that an enormous amount of work goes into preparing for Bookfest, and right now it is all hands-on deck.
“Our warehouses are literally bulging at the seams. The community has continued to support us with donations, but unfortunately we didn’t get the chance to rehome the books in January,” he said.
“So right now, we're busily sorting, stacking and preparing to load 28 semi-trailers worth of books to bring to the convention centre, and I can tell you the quality and variety is outstanding!
"Not only are we looking forward to staging an incredible event, but we are looking forward to raising much-needed funds for our free crisis support services," he said.
Mr Mackay is hoping the June 2022 Bookfest will be the biggest yet, and to help achieve that, people are invited to be part of it through volunteering.
“Our incredible volunteers are critical to the success of Bookfest. So, if anyone has a few hours free, we’d love you to join us,” he said.
“What’s most important though, for both our volunteers and customers is to come prepared for a great day out.
“Wear your comfy shoes, bring your bag and enjoy losing yourself in a world of books. And of course, the best thing is you know by coming and making a purchase at the event, you are helping to save lives."