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Byron Shire
July 15, 2026

A quick guide to the Byron Writers Festival

Latest News

Renewables and battery storage stable amid global uncertainty

Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, in partnership with the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) today released the GenCost 2025–26 Final Report, finding renewable energy supported by storage is helping to protect Australia against global energy shocks and continues to provide the lowest cost pathway for Australia’s electricity system to achieve net zero emissions.

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Mammalian meat allergy and my heart valve replacement

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Great Koala National Park feedback report released

Feedback around the NSW government's Great Koala National Park (GKNP) proposal has been published – what are the main themes?

Bigger community say on hospital land

Byron Council has voted to give the community a greater role in shaping the future of the former Mullumbimby Hospital site, despite concerns from some councillors that additional consultation could further delay the delivery of desperately needed housing.

Byron Writers festival

What happens at Byron Writers Festival?

Byron Writers Festival is a 3-day celebration of storytelling, literature and big ideas covering everything from fiction, memoir, the environment, politics, arts, culture, and social issues.

Taking place at a purpose-built festival site on the beautiful grounds of Elements of Byron Resort, with four outdoor marquees and two indoor rooms filled with conversations, panels, readings, lectures and performances running concurrently. Most sessions are 45 minutes to one hour in length, and you can sit and listen for an entire session or wander between venues as the fancy takes you.

There’s coffee, food and market stalls, as well as a splendid bookshop run by The Book Room Collective. Most authors will be in the book signing area after their sessions. On Festival Sunday, one marquee is turned over to children’s authors so the kids can have a special day meeting their favourites. In the evening, you can enjoy one of the satellite events around the region.

Do I need to be a writer to enjoy the Festival?

No! Byron Writers Festival is all about words and ideas, perfect for all readers, writers and thinkers. Most attend to listen to contemporary writers, engage with new ideas, meet other curious-minded people and fall in love with new books.

Why can’t I buy a 3-Day Pass this year?

By only selling 1-Day Passes the festival can more efficiently track how many people will be on site each day so they can adhere to NSW Health Department guidelines. The festival expects to be back to selling 3-Day Passes in 2022.

Can I go for more than one day?

Yes! Passes are sold as single days (Friday, Saturday or Sunday). To go for more than one day, you will need to purchase a day pass for each day that you plan on attending. You will receive a different colour wristband upon entry to the festival each day.

How much are tickets for Kids Big Day Out?

Kids Big Day Out is happening on Sunday 8 August. A ticket is $40 and includes entry for one child 6-12 years old and one accompanying adult to the designated Kids Big Day Out marquee. Additional children can be added to the ticket for $20 each. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.



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Lismore Boulevard Project announced

Design concept plans for the Lismore Boulevard – Shared User Path project are now available for community consultation, following Lismore City Council securing $2,383,030 in funding through the NSW Government’s Get NSW Active 2025–2026 program, administered by Transport for NSW (TfNSW).

Community responds to detention dams proposal

More than 110 residents gathered at Rock Valley Hall on Sunday 12 July and rejected claims that the recently released CSIRO report on flood mitigation was informed by strong community consultation.

Data shows biggest danger to wildlife is people, not cats

Human-created hazards are responsible for most wildlife rescues in New South Wales, and researchers are calling for more prevention strategies to save threatened species.

Try pickleball and support a great cause

Northern Rivers Pickleball Club are holding a marathon day of pickleball on Sunday, 19 July at the Goonellabah Tennis and Pickleball Club on Reserve Street, Goonellabah.