Noosa alive! will present a rare Queensland-exclusive literary event this May when two of Australia’s most influential media figures, Lisa Wilkinson and Peter FitzSimons, appear together in conversation at The J Theatre in Noosa.
The acclaimed media power couple will share the stage for an extraordinary double-bill storytelling event exploring two remarkable historical stories recently brought to life through their bestselling books.
Audiences will first hear from Peter FitzSimons at 5pm, presenting The Courageous Life of Weary Dunlop — the powerful story of legendary Australian war hero Edward ‘Weary’ Dunlop, whose courage and leadership became a lifeline for thousands of Australian prisoners of war forced to work on the infamous Thai–Burma Railway during World War II.
One of Australia’s most popular storytellers, FitzSimons is the nation’s bestselling non-fiction author and a long-time journalist and columnist with The Sydney Morning Herald and The Sun-Herald. His bestselling books include works on Ned Kelly, Sir John Monash, and the Gallipoli Campaign, along with biographies of celebrated Australians including Nancy Wake and John Eales.
At 6.30pm, Lisa Wilkinson will present The Titanic Story of Evelyn, the extraordinary and previously untold true story of Evelyn Marsden, the only Australian-born survivor of the sinking of the RMS Titanic.
Through extensive research and compelling storytelling, Wilkinson brings to life Marsden’s courageous journey through one of history’s most infamous maritime disasters, revealing an unforgettable tale of resilience and humanity.
Wilkinson is one of Australia’s most respected journalists and media personalities. Her career spans magazine publishing, where she became the youngest editor of Dolly at just 21, and later editor of Cleo, before moving into television as co-host of the Today program. She later joined The Project on Network Ten.
This special appearance forms part of the Noosa alive! 2026 fundraising program, supporting the continuation of one of Australia’s most loved regional arts festivals.
Following the presentations, audiences will have the opportunity to meet both authors during a book signing session from 7.30pm, with book sales available on the night thanks to Hachett and The Junction Bookstore.
In Conversation with Lisa Wilkinson and Peter FitzSimons will be presented by Noosa alive on Monday 11 May at The J Theatre, 60 Noosa Drive, Noosa Junction.
Tickets on sale now at noosaalive.com.au
The full Noosa alive! 2026 festival program — an enthralling 10-day celebration of music, theatre, literature, visual arts, forums and performances — will be announced soon, with festival tickets going on sale in April.
