A rich program of free events runs across Byron Writers Festival’s 30th anniversary weekend from 14 to 16 August.
The festival opens on Bundjalung Country with a Calling to Country led by local Arakwal Bundjalung custodian Delta Kay, who shares her connection to the land and waters that have sustained her community for generations. 2026 also marks the inaugural Rhoda Roberts Oration, hosted by Naomi Moran and presented by playwright, theatre director, Chair of Creative Australia and proud Quandamooka man Wesley Enoch.
Presented by Southern Cross University, the free Bay St Stage offers a full three days of ideas, stories and conversation. Highlights include celebrated NZ writer and swimmer Ingrid Horrocks and scientist Amanda Reichelt-Brushett on Where We Swim, Saltwater Stories with Bundjalung storytellers Ella Noah Bancroft, Delta Kay and Dakota Feirer, and a guided Poetry Walk through Byron’s natural beauty on Saturday.
Sunday morning belongs to the writers of the future, with the beloved free Kids Program returning to the Bay St Stage from 9am to 11.30am. Host and award-winning children’s and young adult author Tristan Bancks kicks things off with quizzes, prizes and surprises, before Broncos legend Sam Thaiday takes over for storytime, and Sarah Armstrong helps young writers craft their own adventure scene. The Student Writing Prizes celebrate the next generation of storytellers, the irrepressible Poppy Galactic gets everyone up and dancing, and the morning wraps up with the chance to meet the authors and have books signed.
Beyond the Bay St Stage, aspiring changemakers can join Australia Institute Co-CEOs Richard Denniss and Leanne Minshull with Research Manager Alice Grundy for How to Be An Arts Advocate at the Beach Hotel.
The Festival Marketplace in Railway Park opens daily from 11am with local artisans, merch and free live music, and the festival closes on a high with Janet Swain’s Big Voice Choir, featuring special guests Shane Howard (Goanna) and Benja Roberts.
Those keen to dive in for more can book their festival day passes and tickets for feature events, workshops and special experiences online at www.byronwritersfestival.com or visit the box office at Railway Park, Jonson St from Friday 14 August.
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