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June 26, 2026

Young voices ignite the stage at Byron Writers Festival Youth Slam

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Rachael Williams

The Poets Out Loud Youth Slam returns to the Byron Writers Festival with a powerful showcase of the region’s boldest young voices.

This electrifying spoken-word competition, held on Saturday from 12pm to 2pm at Bangalow Uniting Church, brings together preselected performers aged 12 to 18, representing schools across the Northern Rivers.

Hosted by acclaimed poet Sarah Temporal, the event also features a special appearance by Rachael Williams, the 2024 Australian Poetry Slam NSW Champion. Expect raw, courageous, and thought-provoking performances as the next generation of poets take the mic.

Sarah Temporal says when she hears these young poets she gets shivers. ‘They speak a raw truth, with such courage and insight and vulnerability; they are putting their words and hearts out there to tell us how it is. It really makes me feel that there’s hope for the future.’

Tickets are just $5 (+ booking fee) and no festival pass is required. While performers are pre-selected and mentored through the Poets Out Loud program, young poets can register interest for future events.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to witness youth speaking truth to power through poetry.

For more info or to get involved, visit poetsoutloud.org or call 0428 256 531.



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