The launch of a new book about the spooky folklore of Redlands Coast will be one of this year’s Star-Studded Spring series of author talks at Redland City Council Libraries.
Historian and ghost tour operator Jack Sim will reveal the latest book in his Ghost Trail series – Haunted Redlands – at an evening event at Capalaba Library on 29 October, two days before Halloween!
Acting Mayor Julie Talty said Sim’s talk during last year’s Star-Studded Spring series was highly popular and this year should be even more so as he delves into the city’s haunted heritage.
“Jack’s latest collection of local ghost stories features well-known landmarks, such as Cleveland Point Lighthouse, the Old Courthouse, Ormiston House, Whepstead Manor and legendary Spook Hill at Mount Cotton,” Cr Talty said.
“Along with Jack, there is a richly diverse group of authors participating this year.
“The series represents a wonderful opportunity for readers to engage with some of their favourite authors while showcasing our city’s libraries and the services and facilities they offer.”

Historical fiction author Christine Wells (The Lost Perfumes of Paris) returns this year, alongside suspense and crime writers Petronella McGovern (Every Time She Wakes), Chris Hammer (Full Circle) and Michael Robotham (Tell Me Something True).

One of Australia’s leading parenting commentators, Madonna King (Screen Wise) will present an early evening talk aimed at parents and carers navigating the challenges of raising teenagers in a digital world.
Redland City Council Libraries’ Star-Studded Spring author talks for 2026:
- Christine Wells: Tuesday, 1 September, 10–11am, Victoria Point Library
- Madonna King: Thursday, 3 September, 6-7pm, Capalaba Library
- Petronella McGovern: Thursday, 10 September, 10–11am, Victoria Point Library
- Amy Andrews: Saturday, 26 September, 10–11am, Victoria Point Library
- Chris Hammer: Wednesday, 7 October, 10–11am, Cleveland Library
- Riley Knight: Wednesday, 21 October, 10–11am, Capalaba Library
- Jack Sim: Thursday, 29 October, 6-7pm, Capalaba Library
- Fleur McDonald: Saturday, 31 October, 10–11am, Victoria Point Library
- Tricia Stringer: Monday, 2 November, 10–11am, Victoria Point Library
- Michael Robotham: Friday, 6 November, 10–11am, Cleveland Library
- Michelle Johnston: Tuesday, 10 November, 10–11am, Victoria Point Library
In a first for Redland City Libraries, a special event, the Author spotlight sessions: Hawkeye Publishing, will be held at Capalaba Library on Saturday, 14 November.
Cr Talty said the event would bring together 12 authors across multiple genres, including children’s authors, in a fast-paced showcase format.
“The showcase supports emerging and independent authors and offers a great way for Redlands Coast readers to discover local and Australian writers,” she said.
All events are free but bookings are required. To book, go to the What’s On at Your Library website. Library locations and opening hours are available on Council’s website.






