Arrernte Poet Marie Elena Ellis Launches Debut Poetry Collection with Red Dirt Poetry

Red Dirt Poetry is proud to announce the publication of the highly anticipated debut poetry collection by acclaimed Arrernte poet Marie Elena Ellis.

This landmark collection brings together Ellis’s distinctive voice, weaving stories of Country, culture, memory, identity and belonging. Ellis offers readers an intimate and powerful exploration of contemporary Arrernte experience.

The official public launch will take place on Thursday 6 August at The Dirty Word at The Roastery Café, Alice Springs. Poetry lovers, readers and community members are warmly invited to celebrate the release with the author.

Copies of the collection can be purchased in advance through the Red Dirt Poetry website or purchased on the night of the launch.

Book Sales

• Available through Red Dirt Poetry – Pre-sale copies available now here.
• Available locally at Red Kangaroo Books from August 16th

Following the launch, Marie Elena Ellis will embark on a semi-national festival and book tour, sharing her work with audiences across Australia. Scheduled appearances include:

• Byron Writers Festival – August 2026
• Blak & Bright Festival, Melbourne – September 2026
• Blue Mountains Writers Festival – October 2026

As one of the Northern Territory’s staunchest literary voices, Ellis continues a strong tradition of First Nations storytelling while forging new pathways through poetry. Her debut collection marks an important contribution to contemporary Australian literature and celebrates the enduring strength of Arrernte language, culture and community.

Launch Details

What: Launch of Marie Elena Ellis’s debut poetry collection
When: Thursday 6 August 2026 7pm – 7.30pm followed by an open-mic
Where: The Dirty Word, The Roastery Café, Alice Springs
Tickets: $5 or entry by donation