Jennifer Down at Montalto

Jennifer Down is one of the most acclaimed writers currently working in Australia. Since her debut novel, Our Magic Hour, was shortlisted for the Victorian Premier’s Literary Award for an Unpublished Manuscript in 2014, she has published three works of fiction, has twice been named Sydney Morning Herald Young Novelist of the Year, and received numerous accolades including the 2018 Readings Prize and, most recently, the 2022 Miles Franklin Literary Award for her novel Bodies of Light. Following one woman’s turbulent life from the 1970s to the present, Bodies of Light lays bare the destructive legacies of our public institutions and invites readers to engage with complex ethical dilemmas through Down’s nuanced, empathetic characterisation. This October, join the Wheeler Centre for a shared farm-to-table lunch at Red Hill’s Montalto as Jennifer Down speaks with Melanie Cheng – the award-winning author of Australia Day and Room for a Stranger – about the creative and societal importance of not looking away. Presented in partnership with Montalto The bookseller for this event is Antipodes Bookshop and Gallery.

Where the literary meets the culinary. You, a good book, a glass of wine, delicious food. Together as you were always meant to be. But with a wonderfully rich extra ingredient: a stimulating conversation with your favourite author. Set at Montalto’s stunning Red Hill winery on the Mornington Peninsula, join some of Australia’s most beloved writers for an intimate discussion about their work – served with excellent food and wine, as a languorous lunchtime tips into a relaxed afternoon.