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News & Editorial


Media

May 11, 2016

Byron Writers Festival

6 – 8 August 2021
2021 Festival Dates

6 – 8 August


Key Information

Media


Festival Dates

6 – 8 August 2021

Where

Elements of Byron Resort, Byron Bay

What to expect

Now in its 25th year, Byron Writers Festival is one of Australia’s most popular regional literary events, featuring conversations with 100+ writers and thinkers over a three-day celebration of ideas, storytelling, and creativity.

Against a backdrop of Byron Bay’s incredible coastline and surrounded by nature, the Festival is loved for its relaxed and friendly vibe, open-air beachside location and powerful conversations spanning a mix of genres including music, art, environment, philosophy, health, politics, human rights and of course memoir and fiction.

Located just 5min from Byron Bay town centre, 30min from Byron/Ballina airport and 45 min from Gold Coast airport.

Who is it for

For writers, readers and people that believe in the power of storytelling, ideas and healthy debate as a force for good.

Tickets

$90 – $135 for a full day pass giving you access to over 35 sessions across 6 stages each day

Media enquiries

Clare McGregor Publicity
[email protected]
M: 0418 192 524

Festival 2021 Media Accreditation
Media Pass applications will open in May

Marketing enquiries

Anika Ebner
Marketing and Communications Manager
[email protected]
P: (02) 6685 5115

Social Media

Follow and share posts via facebook, instagram and twitter. A Festival Blog will accompany the launch of the Full Program.
Our festival hashtag is #byronwf2021


Connect

Follow us



E-newsletter Sign-Up

Photo Gallery

Click to view images from the 2019 Festival.

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And we’re off!

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Babara Toner finds her funny bone with Toni Jordan and Mandy Nolan

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Lessons in scarf-wearing: Head, neck and shoulders.

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Nevo Zisin on growing up queer in Australia

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#MeToo: Where To? with Amal Awad, Ginger Gorman, David Leser and Tracey Spicer

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Tara June Winch lays down the law when it comes to creativity and motherhood

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The PM Years with Kevin Rudd

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John Marsden on The Art of Growing Up

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No pots of gold unfortunately, but plenty of golden nuggets at the end of these rainbows!

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Vicki Laveau-Harvie on Memoir: Running in the Family

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Dr Julia Shaw delves into our darker thoughts on Exploring Evil with Gianrico Carofiglio

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Markus Zusak on crossing his Bridge of Clay

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Zusak fans

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Storm Clouds stayed at bay for most of the day

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Natasha Stott Despoja, Scott Ludlam and Dennis Atkins tackle the question: What’s Happened to our Politics

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Lisa-ann Gershwin on the joys of jellyfish

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Crusaders Against Corruption

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Roman Quaedvlieg on Crusaders Against Corruption

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Kate McClymont on Crusaders Against Corruption

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Ash Grunwald shares some acoustic tunes in his session

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Bruce Pascoe, Bronwyn Bancroft and Karla Dickens share a joke with chair Adam Shoemaker in The Stories Embedded in Landscape

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Bruce Pascoe enjoys a good ribbing

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Streaming in on Saturday under our Festival flags

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Delta Kay takes flight for Welcome to Country

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Mob reunions with Melissa Lucashenko, Uncle Jack Charles and Delta Kay

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Getting their kicks

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Well… THAT was funny

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Tim Flannery

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Sarah Hanson Young shares a laugh on ‘The Mental Load: A Woman’s Lot

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Gabbie Stroud’s heartfelt experiences resonate with many

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Sharing the load in The Mental Load

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Natasha Stott Despoja on Domestic Violence: A National Emergency

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Full house for Resilience, Strength and Adversity with Leigh Sales, Chloe Hooper and Tim Costello

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Soaking it up

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Leigh Sales

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Uncle Jack Charles had us laughing and crying in his memorable conversation

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The Sculpture Appreciation Society strike a pose

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Grazing

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Dr Julia Shaw strikes a pose

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The Debrief

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Bruce Pascoe’s conversation with Kerry O’Brien drew capacity crowds under a sunny winter’s sky

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A standing ovation for Bruce Pascoe’s Dark Emu conversation with Kerry O’Brien

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Adam Spence and Eddie Woo get their geek on in Amazing Mathematics

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An overflowing room sits riveted to Behrouz Boochani, live streamed from Manus Island

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Min Jin Lee, Benjamin Law, Jennifer Clement and Markus Zusak on the Family as Saga

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Jennifer Clement reflects on Family Saga

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Question time with Alison Lester at Kids Big Day Out

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Hands up for Morris Gleitzman at Kids Big Day Out

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Our 2019 Story Sleuths with Tristan Bancks

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The StoryBoard Story Space in action at Kids Big Day Out

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Alison Lester’s mural gets some finishing touches

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A.C. Grayling inspires the next generation of philosophers

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A.C. Grayling delivers the annual Thea Astley Address on Democracy and its Crisis

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Enthralled

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Sitting back for Democracy and its Crisis

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Hung Le relives one of many awkward moments…v

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And the audience laps it up!

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Taking time out to reflect

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Dmon Gameau on his hopes for 2040 with Nathan Scolaro

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Ending the weekend on a high note with Shire Choir

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Shire Choir’s Malea Naughton

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Coming together as community to celebrate and rejoice!

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A HUGE thank you to all of our WONDERFUL volunteers!! Your smiles and generosity are what make this Festival truly special!A HUGE thank you to all of our WONDERFUL volunteers!! Your smiles and generosity are what make this Festival truly special!

anika


Accommodation

May 11, 2016

Byron Writers Festival

6 – 8 August 2021
2021 Festival Dates

6 – 8 August


Key Information

Where to Stay in Byron


Find out more about Elements of Byron, our on-site accommodation partner, as well as links to other accommodation providers in the area. Due to increasing demand for holiday accommodation in Byron Bay and surrounds, we suggest you research accommodation options early including minimum night stays and cancellation terms with regards to Covid-19 public health orders.

Elements of Byron Resort

Elements of Byron Resort is the proud venue partner of Byron Writers Festival. The resort features 193 private villas dotted amidst 22 hectares of absolute beachfront paradise. The modern Australian beach architecture and interiors are inspired by the native flora and fauna of this exceptional Byron Bay beachside location, where every luxury awaits.

Facilities include a new adults exclusive pool, central lagoon pool and beach lounge.

Graze at Elements is the all-day dining option, along with poolside dining options and the Lobby Bar.

For more information: elementsofbyron.com.au

To make a booking call 02 6639 1500


The Byron at Byron

Nestled in 45-acres of magical subtropical rainforest, Byron at Byron, a Crystalbrook Collection Resort, is a celebration of nature, responsible luxury and the local environment. Offering 92 guest suites, each with its own front and rear verandah, the resort works with its surrounding landscape to offer guests an immersive experience in nature.

Featuring new signature restaurant, Forest, Eléme Day Spa daily yoga classes, tennis court and infinity pool, Byron at Byron is proud to offer sustainable luxury loved by locals and travellers alike.

In line with Crystalbrook Collection’s commitment to Responsible Luxury, the resort makes use of environmentally friendly, upcycled, recycled and locally sourced materials wherever possible. The resort has a plastic free policy (no plastic water bottles or straws) and, through the use of technology, has removed 90% of paper used by a typical five-star hotel.

For more information: crystalbrookcollection.com/byron


Byron Bay Accom

Byron Bay Accom has the largest range of holiday accommodation in Byron Bay, with over 200 options to choose from including apartments, holiday houses, beach houses, hotels, guesthouses, resorts and budget accommodation.

Byron Bay Accom helps you book affordable accommodation in Byron Bay and can cater to travellers on any budget.

Byron Bay Accom is a proud accommodation partner of Byron Writers Festival

For more information: https://www.byronbayaccom.net/

To make a reservation call 02 6680 8666


The Atlantic Byron Bay

The Atlantic Byron Bay is a lifestyle hotel. The perfect combination of location and style surrounded by swaying palm trees and the sound of the ocean. The Atlantic is the perfect getaway for couples with cafes, shops and white sandy beaches all steps from your deck. Soak up the sun on the lawn, hide under a palm tree and enjoy the balmy evenings by the fire pit.  Cast off your bags and start making moments at your home away from home.

The Atlantic Byron Bay is a proud accommodation partner of Byron Writers Festival

atlanticbyronbay.com.au


byronbay.com

byronbay.com connects you with an extensive collection of accommodation options – find your perfect property then book online or direct with the property manager.
A local business, byronbay.com has spent the last two decades sharing an authentic sense of Byron with the rest of Australia and the world. Explore the region on our flagship website, blogs, and social channels.

A proud accommodation partner of Byron Writers Festival.

For more information visit byronbay.com


The Sails Motel, Brunswick Heads

Located in the heart of Brunswick Heads, The Sails offers 22 classic motel style rooms just a short stroll from the river, restaurants and cafes. Facilities include a Swimming Pool, BBQ & Gazebo, Bike Hire, Free Wi-Fi, Onsite Parking, Bar & Restaurant and an Event & Workshop Space.

thesailsmotel.com.au


Bayshore Bungalows

bayshorebungalows.com.au


Wategos Treehouse

wategostreehouse.com.au


Major Venue Partner

With thanks to


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Accommodation Partners

With thanks to

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nrwadmin


Travel

April 15, 2016

Byron Writers Festival

6 – 8 August 2021
2021 Festival Dates

6 – 8 August


Travel

Getting to the Festival

The Festival site is located at Elements of Byron, approximately 5km from Byron town centre. Access is by train, shuttle bus, car or bike.

Festival location

Elements of Byron Resort
144 Bayshore Dr, Byron Bay NSW
View location in Google Maps

The Festival encourages all patrons to use public transport if possible. A shuttle bus and train service will be operating between Byron CBD and the Festival site from Friday 2 – Sunday 4 August.

Train and Bus Route Map

Train information

The new Byron Bay Solar Train (blue line) runs from Byron Bay to North Beach Station at Elements of Byron Resort, where the Festival takes place, for a cost of $4 per one-way journey. The Byron Bay platform (1) is located on Shirley Street in Byron Bay CBD between the First Sun Caravan Park and Simmos Caltex Service Station. The drop-off platform (2) is approx. 300 metres from the festival site. Trains will run Friday, Saturday and Sunday between 8am and 7pm. A one-way trip takes approximately 15min.

Shuttle Bus information

A regular Go Byron shuttle bus service (red line) to and from the Festival site will run Friday, Saturday and Sunday between 8am and 5.30pm.

  • Cost: The cost is $5 each way, paid directly to the driver.
  • Frequency: The shuttle bus will circulate every ½ hour throughout the day. You will need to hail the driver kerbside: they will not automatically stop, nor are we able to give you an exact time as it will be dependent upon pickup and drop offs.  Feel free to call to see when the next shuttle is due on 02 66 855 008.
  • When to wait: You should be waiting at least 1 hour prior to your session time.

Pick-up-points

(B & C) Shirley Street (opposite ‘Break Free’ Apartments)
(D) The Atlantic (Marvel Street)
(E) Byron Bay Visitor Information Centre (Jonson Street)
(F) Byron at Byron Resort (77-97 Broken Head Road)

Car

The Festival car park opens at 7.45am. Elements of Byron is located at the end of Bayshore Drive, approximately 5km from the centre of Byron Bay. Car parking on site is limited. If driving we recommend arriving 45 minutes before Festival entry.

Click for Google Map

Taxi

For a taxi or maxi taxi to the Festival our preferred partner is Go Byron

Bike

If you are planning to ride a bike, please ride safely and be particularly mindful of merging traffic, parked cars and pedestrians. Bikes can be parked and locked to the safety fencing near the Festival entrance where signposted.

Safe riding tips (from Transport for NSW)

  • Always wear an approved bicycle helmet, properly fitted and fastened
  • Always obey the road rules, including traffic lights, stop signs and give way signs
  • Allow pedestrians a metre of space on shared paths, where possible.
  • Ride in a predictable manner so that other road users do not have to react suddenly to your movements
  • Give hand signals when changing lanes or turning left or right
  • Make yourself visible by wearing bright, light or reflective clothing
  • Plan your route using quieter streets, bicycle paths or shared paths
  • Always be in control of your bicycle. It is an offence to ride with both hands off the handlebars, feet off the pedals or to carry anything that prevents you from having control.
Travel

Getting to Byron Bay

Byron Bay is located in the Northern Rivers of NSW, and is accessible by Air, Bus and Car.

Plane

Ballina Byron Gateway Airport is the closest to Byron Bay (30 min drive). Other airports include Gold Coast Airport (approx 45min drive) and Brisbane International (approx 1h45min drive).

Airport Transfers

Our preferred Airport transfer service is Go Byron. To book a transfer from Ballina or the Gold Coast airport  please click here or phone (02) 6620 9200.

For transfers to and from Brisbane Airport, please visit brisbane2byron.com

Train

Countrylink provides a rail/coach transfer service to Byron Bay everyday. For reservations and information, phone 132 232 (6-10pm 7 days) or www.countrylink.info

Bus

Byron Bay is serviced daily by interstate coaches. For information contact Greyhound or Premier.


nrwadmin


Key Information

April 11, 2016

anika


Festival Archive

April 11, 2016

Festival 2017

2019 Festival

2 – 4 August


EARLY BIRD TICKETS

On sale 8 – 14 May


BUY TICKETS

Welcome

Byron Writers Festival 2019


First guests announced and Early Bird tickets on sale now for one week only!

Announcing… Behrouz Boochani, Damon Gameau, Benjamin Law, Min Jin Lee, Alison Lester, Sisonke Msimang, Bruce Pascoe, Leigh Sales, Tara June Winch, and Markus Zusak.

We are thrilled to share a taste of what’s in store for Byron Writers Festival 2019. Join us this 2-4 August for three days with story creators, idea makers and risk takers in one of the world’s most beautiful coastal locations.

Book your Early Bird 3-Day Passes now and save! Available from 9am Wednesday 8 May until midnight Tuesday 14 May. The Full Program will be announced and all tickets will be on sale from 12 June.


BUY TICKETS

Meet the Writers

Our Early Bird line up is a taste of what’s to come. The final line up of over 140 writers and thinkers will be revealed on 12 June when the Full Program is announced and all ticket types go on sale.


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Behrouz Boochani is a Kurdish-Iranian journalist, scholar, cultural advocate, writer and an Honorary Member of PEN International. His memoir No Friend But the Mountains won the 2019 Victorian Prize for Literature. He has been detained as a refugee on Manus Island since 2013.

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Damon Gameau is a passionate advocate for good health and the environment. He is the creator of That Sugar Book and That Sugar Film. His most recent book and documentary is 2040, an innovative vision for regenerating the planet.

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Benjamin Law is an author, screenwriter, and journalist. He created the book and TV series The Family Law and is the editor of the upcoming anthology Growing Up Queer in Australia.

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Min Jin Lee is a journalist and author of Free Food for Millionaires and the New York Times bestseller, Pachinko. Born in South Korea, she now lives in Boston.

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Alison Lester is one of Australia’s most popular and bestselling creators of children’s books, including Are We There Yet?’, Magic Beach, Noni the Pony, and The Very Noisy Baby.

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Sisonke Msimang is a South African writer living in Perth. She is the author of the memoir, Always Another Country, and The Resurrection of Winnie Mandela. Sisonke is a bold new voice on feminism, race and politics.

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Bruce Pascoe is a writer of Tasmanian, Bunurong and Yuin descent. He has written several children’s books, as well as the multi-award winning Dark Emu which will be released in June as the children’s book Young Dark Emu.

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Leigh Sales is one of Australia’s most respected journalists and anchor of ABC’s 7.30. She has interviewed every living Australian prime minister and is the winner of two Walkley Awards. Her most recent book is Any Ordinary Day.

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Markus Zusak is the bestselling author of six novels, including Bridge of Clay and worldwide phenomenon The Book Thief. His work has been translated into more than forty languages, and has spent more than a decade on the New York Times bestseller list.

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Tara June Winch is a Wiradjuri author born in Australia and based in France. She was named a Sydney Morning Herald Best Young Australian Novelist and has won numerous literary awards. Her most recent novel The Yield, is due to be released in July.


BUY TICKETS

Ticket releases, announcements and pricing

8 – 14 May: Early Bird tickets and first guests announced
First guest announcement
Early Bird 3-Day passes, available for one week only
Tickets on sale from 9am Wednesday 8 May until midnight 14 May

3-Day Pass: $235 Members / $275 General

—

12 June: Full Program announced and all tickets on sale|
Full program announcement
All tickets available, including 3-Day passes, 1-Day passes, Sunday Locals’ passes, Kids Big Day Out and separately ticketed Workshops and Satellite Events*.

3-Day Pass: $255 Members / $299 General
1-Day Pass: $110 Members / $135 General
Sunday Locals’ Pass*: $80, limited release, conditions apply. Supported by Stone & Wood
Sunday Kids Big Day Out Pass**, $40 (1 adult + 1 child. $20 for each additional child)
Sunday Family Pass**: $120 (2 adults + 1 child. $20 for each additional child)

Satellite Event ticket prices range from free to $35
Workshop ticket prices range from $35 to $120, with member discounts available.

—

29 July 29 – 4 August
Workshops and Satellite Events running throughout the week

—

2 – 4 August
Festival Weekend!

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Auslan interpreted symbol Auslan Interpretation available. Please email [email protected] if you require an interpreter.

Notes and conditions

  • All tickets are available to purchase online, over the phone via (02) 6685 5115 or in person at our offices in Byron Bay.
  • All tickets are subject to booking fees. Find out more about ticket types on Our Tickets and Pricing Explained page.
  • *Sunday Local’s Passes are available to residents of the Byron, Ballina, Kyogle, Lismore, Richmond Valley and Tweed council areas. These tickets are limited in number and available for purchase from the festival office or online (maximum two tickets per person); purchasers will need to present proof of address at the Festival gate. Supported by Stone & Wood.
  • ** Children must be supervised by at least ONE adult at all times.
  • For full terms and conditions, click here.

Member benefits for the 2019 Festival

Not a member of Byron Writers Festival, or yet to renew your 2019 membership? Join today and save up to $74 on full price 3-Day passes. Other Festival member benefits include a special preview of the Full Program online and priority booking periods for Festival Satellite Events. Read the full list of annual Member benefits and click here to sign up now!

Never miss a beat

Sign up to our newsletter, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram as we continue to post Festival updates throughout the coming months.

Get a taste of the Festival

Never been and heard great things? Watch our show reel from last year’s Festival and relive the highlights with our 2018 photo gallery and podcast series.

Make a Donation

Did you know that Byron Writers Festival received relatively little public funding – under 20% of our total revenue – with a majority coming from people like you. To ensure we can continue to support and celebrate writers, readers and storytellers please make a donation today. As a not-for-profit organisation run with a small team of staff and volunteers, contributions of any size go a long way in enriching the creative culture of our community. Amounts over $2 are tax deductible. To find out more, click here.

Connect

#byronwf2019



E-newsletter Sign-Up

ACCESSIBILITY

Auslan intrepretation available

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Get in touch if you require an interpreter:
[email protected]


2019 Festival Dates

2 – 4 August


BUY TICKETS

VIEW FESTIVAL PROGRAM

WRITERS

SATELLITE EVENTS

WORKSHOPS

KIDS BIG DAY OUT

Welcome

Byron Writers Festival 2019


It’s Festival Weekend!

The marquees are up, the stages are set and on Friday we throw open the gates! Head to the blog for a comprehensive guide to enjoying your 2019 Byron Writers Festival and get ready for three heartwarming days of ideas, storytelling, debate, laughter, and inspired conversation.

Ticket update

Due to legal capacity restrictions, 3-Day Passes and Saturday Passes have SOLD OUT as of 7pm Wednesday 31 July. We apologise for any disappointment or inconvenience caused.

Friday and Sunday 1-Day Passes, Kids Big Day Out Passes, Sunday Family Passes and Satellite Events are still available online and from the Festival Box Office on the day (if not sold out prior).

We strongly advise that you book now to avoid disappointment.


BUY TICKETS

Connect

#byronwf2019



E-newsletter Sign-Up

See Who’s Coming

Meet the writers and thinkers that make up our powerful and inspiring line-up of more than 140 Australian and international speakers spanning fiction, memoir, crime, environment, society, politics, poetry, art, comedy and music.

VIEW ALL WRITERS

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Behrouz Boochani

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Leigh Sales

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Jack Charles

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Min Jin Lee

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Markus Zusak

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Gail Jones

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Matthew Evans

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Kate McClymont

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Eddie Woo

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Tishani Doshi

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Tim Flannery

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Alison Lester

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Benjamin Law

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Clementine Ford

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Morris G

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Jennifer CLement

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The Hon. Kevin Rudd

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Nevo Zisin

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Sarah Hanson-Young

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David Stavanger

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Sisonke Msimang

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Bruce Pascoe

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Tara June Winch

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VIEW ALL WRITERSBUY TICKETS

Festival Program

Click the links below to explore the 2019 Festival Program in more detail.

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Dive into our three-day Festival program of 121 sessions with writers, environmentalists, poets, commentators, politicians and artists who together shape stories of hope, courage and change.

VIEW FULL PROGRAM

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A sideshow of separately ticketed events featuring a curated selection of Festival guests. Satellite events take place over the Festival weekend throughout the Northern Rivers’ region, and many of them are free!

VIEW SATELLITE EVENTS

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Get inspired, sink your teeth into your craft and learn from the best with one of our Festival Workshops, taking place throughout the week leading up to Festival weekend in Byron Bay.

VIEW WORKSHOPS

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Immerse yourself in the magic of storytelling on Sunday 4 August. A day out for all the family to enjoy, jam-packed in with interactive presentations and drop-in creative workshops.

VIEW KIDS BIG DAY OUT

Tickets

All 2019 Festival tickets including 3-Day Passes, 1-Day Passes, Kids Big Day Out Passes, Sunday Family Passes, Satellite Events and Workshops are now on sale. Available until sold out.

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SOLD OUT

A 3-Day Pass gives access to all 121 sessions happening in the main Festival Program on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
—
$299 General
$255 Members & Students

<b>SOLD OUT</b>


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BUY TICKETS

A 1-Day Pass gives access to sessions happening in the main Festival Program for your chosen day – Friday or Sunday.
—
$135 General
$110 Members & Students

<b>SATURDAY SOLD OUT</b>


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BUY TICKETS

Admits one child and one accompanying adult to the Kids Big Day Out marquee on Sunday only.
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$40 for one child (6-12 years) and one accompanying adult
$20 each additional child (Pre-schoolers free)


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BUY TICKETS

Admits one child and two accompanying adults. Children gain access to the Kids Big Day Out marquee only. Adults gain access to the whole Sunday program but cannot leave their children unsupervised, so will need to tag team.
—
$120 for one child (6-12 years) and two accompanying adults
$20 each additional child (Pre-schoolers free)


Festival Information

Key information for getting to and from Byron and the event site, accommodation, tickets and FAQ’s.
Travel

To the Festival

How to get to and from the festival site by shuttle bus, train or car. Information on flights, trains and buses to and from Byron Bay.
Read More

Stay

Accommodation

Find out more about Elements, our on-site accommodation partner, as well as links to other accommodation providers in the area.
Read more

Festival

Site Map

The 2018 Festival site map will be made available soon.
View Map

Festival

FAQ

Get the answers to our most frequently asked questions here.
Read more

Festival

Volunteers

2018 Festival Volunteer applications are now closed. For questions related to your application, please refer to our Volunteer page FAQs.
Read more

Festival

Accessibility

We are continually aiming to improve access to Byron Writers Festival and enhance the experience of patrons of all abilities. Read on for details about Festival accessibility.
Read more

Festival 2018

Relive the memories with our 2018 Photo Gallery


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All ears for Trent Dalton, Elise Valmorbida and Matt Haig in ‘How Fiction Can Foster Empathy’

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Tim Rogers and Tristan Bancks on ‘How to Get Boys Reading’

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Selina Tusitala Marsh and Ben Hobson

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All eyes and ears for Tracey Moffatt’s stunning visual presentation

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The crowd erupts following Lemn Sissay’s reading from ‘Gold From the Stone’

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Lemn Sissay gives his powerful reading

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‘What if Women Ruled the World’ with Jacqui Lambie, Bri Lee and Anne Aly

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Whale researcher Micheline Jenner

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Tanya Plibersek was grace personified

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Charles Massy

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Our next generation leans in

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Sarah Wilson

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Gillian Triggs delivers the Thea Astley address ‘Speaking Up in a Post Truth World’

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Kerry O’Brien, Jenny Hocking and our AUSLAN interpreter relay the secrets behind ‘The Dismissal’

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Kon Karapanagiotidis holds the Power of Hope in the palm of his hand

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Manal al-Sharif listens to her co-panellists stories

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Hyeonseo Lee

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Kitty Flanagan sets us off in stitches in Friday morning’s Comedy panel with Mandy Nolan and Andrew Hansen

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Trent Dalton

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CORE FUNDERS


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MAJOR PARTNERS


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anika


FAQ

December 22, 2015

Byron Writers Festival

6 – 8 August 2021
2021 Festival Dates

6 – 8 August


Key Information

Festival FAQs

Our most frequently asked questions answered below

Festival 2021

  • Is the 2021 Festival going ahead?
  • What happens if I can’t attend the Festival due to border closures or illness?
  • What happens if the Festival is cancelled by government order?
  • Why can’t I buy a 3-Day Pass this year?
  • I have a voucher for the 2020 Festival, what now?
  • I want to support Byron Writers Festival through this difficult time. What can I do?
Is the 2021 Festival going ahead?
It certainly is, and we can’t wait! 2021 Festival dates are 6 – 8 August. Of course, it won’t quite be business-as-usual: the safety and well-being of our guests and artists is a priority and to ensure a Covid-safe event we will be following all NSW Health advice. Further information will be available on a ‘Stay Covid Safe’ webpage when tickets go on sale.
What happens if I can’t attend the Festival due to border closures or illness?
Byron Writers Festival has introduced updates to our ticketing policy giving people more flexibility in the case of illness or border closure:
  • If you cannot attend Festival events due to having flu-like symptoms, please contact the Festival to arrange a credit or transfer. If a credit or transfer cannot be facilitated a refund will be given.
  • If you are planning on travelling to the Festival and can’t attend due to travel and quarantine restrictions, or border closures, please contact the Festival, where possible, 7 days prior to the event to arrange a ticket exchange – and if that can’t be facilitated a refund will be given.
What happens if the Festival is cancelled by government order?
If the event is unable to proceed on the advertised date or location by Government order, Byron Writers Festival reserves the right to reschedule the Event, and offer a credit or exchange to the rescheduled date, or offer a refund request window of 28 days.
Why can’t I buy a 3-Day Pass this year?
Selling only 1-Day Passes allows us to more efficiently track how many people will be on site each day so we can adhere to NSW Health Department guidelines (when people buy 3-Day Passes they often don’t attend on all days). Also, due to social distancing regulations we will have significantly reduced audience capacity at the Festival site and selling only 1-Day Passes means we are able to give more people an opportunity to attend. We expect to be back to selling 3-Day Passes in 2022.
I have a voucher for the 2020 Festival, what now?
All 2020 Festival vouchers will be transferred and valid for use at the 2021 Festival. Please get in touch at [email protected].
I want to support Byron Writers Festival through this difficult time. What can I do?
Contributions of any size will go a long way in supporting our organisation. Should you wish to donate, please head to our Give Now page. Amounts over $2 are tax deductible.

Planning your Festival

  • How can I find out what is on?
  • Do I need to buy tickets?
  • Are the writers Australian or international?
  • Where is the Festival held?
  • Do I need to be a writer to enjoy the Festival?
  • What happens at Byron Writers Festival?
  • Do Festival sessions have allocated seating?
How can I find out what is on?
The full program of events will be available online from mid-June. The release will include all Marquee sessions, feature events and workshops. For program updates including workshop and special event announcements, please subscribe to our e-newsletter.
Do I need to buy tickets?
You certainly do. Access to the Festival site is only available to Pass holders. A program of separately ticketed workshops and satellite events – some of them free –  runs in the lead-up to and throughout the main Festival weekend. Ticket prices vary and details are released when the full program is announced. Release dates for Early Bird and Full Program tickets can be found here. Please subscribe to our e-newsletter for writer announcements and ticket release updates.
Are the writers Australian or international?
Byron Writers Festival puts particular emphasis on celebrating Australian writers and storytellers, although many of these writers will be of international renown. You will find an international guest scattered among the line-up, but our philosophy ensures that Australian writing is of core significance in the program.
Where is the Festival held?
The Festival site is located at Elements of Byron Resort, approximately 5km from Byron town centre. Refer to our travel page for maps, directions and transport options.
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.
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 and social issues.

We have 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 min – 1 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 and 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 Festival sessions have allocated seating?

No. Seats in marquees are on a first come best dressed basis.

Accessibility

  • Does the Festival provide AUSLAN interpreters?
  • Is there disabled parking at the Festival?
  • Is there disabled seating at the Festival?
Does the Festival provide AUSLAN interpreters?
Selected sessions from the main program and the Kids Big Day Out are interpreted each day of the Festival. Floating Auslan interpreters will also be available at the Festival site on an as-needs basis. If you require an Auslan interpreter, look for the Auslan symbol in the printed program, and head to the Information Tent at the Festival to book an interpreter for a session of your choosing. Thanks to Multicultural NSW for funding this initiative.
Is there disabled parking at the Festival?
Limited disabled parking is available and our parking volunteers will direct you accordingly. Please have your sticker on display.
Is there disabled seating at the Festival?
Marquees and stages have wheelchair accessible allocated seating. Please make yourself known to the marquee supervisor and you will be ushered accordingly.

Festival Participation: Writers and Volunteers

  • How can I get on the program of the Byron Writers Festival?
  • Does the Festival run any writing competitions?
  • Can I get a job with the Festival?
  • Can I volunteer with the Festival?
How can I get on the program of the Byron Writers Festival?
Byron Writers Festival is curated by the Festival Director and programming committee, in wide consultation with publishers and industry bodies. Participation is by invitation only. The Programming Committee does not accept unsolicited submissions, and due to the large quantity of messages we receive, we are not always able to reply to individual pitches. The program gives a broad definition to the concept of writing and incorporates many genres.
Does the Festival run any writing competitions?
Festival opportunities and competitions are listed on our website as they arise. We encourage people to subscribe to our e-newsletter for opportunity and competition announcements.
Can I get a job with the Festival?
The Byron Writers Festival is organised by the six staff and a hands-on Committee, we are a not-for-profit member-based organisation. Employment opportunities within the office are rare, but will always be placed on the Festival website.
Can I volunteer with the Festival?
The Byron Writers Festival relies on its enthusiastic volunteer workforce, with approximately 160 volunteers being rostered before and during the event. More information about volunteering can be found here.

Tickets and Passes

  • How does my e-ticket work?
  • Don’t have your Festival ticket printed or your ticket displayed on your mobile device?
  • I have lost my ticket. What do I do?
  • Do I get a wristband?
  • When do the gates open?
How does my e-ticket work?
Tickets are emailed to you via our ticketing site, TryBooking. If you have purchased your ticket online or via the telephone, you should receive your tickets via email (note: mailed FROM TryBooking) as a PDF attachment. Be sure to check your junk mail for this email if you can’t find it. PLEASE PRINT YOUR PDF TICKET before you come to the Festival to facilitate ease of scanning at the entrance gates. Before you approach the Festival gates:
  • Have your printed ticket with you, with your barcode visible for scanning, OR
  • Have your ticket displayed on your mobile device.
Don’t have your Festival ticket printed or your ticket displayed on your mobile device?
Please go to the Festival box office where a staff member will assist you. DO NOT join the queue at the Festival gates.
I have lost my ticket. What do I do?
If you have lost your Byron Writers Festival ticket, workshop, special event ticket or membership number, please click here: LOST TICKETS You will just need the email address you booked with. Your lost tickets will be sent from Trybooking, please check your junk email if you can’t find them.
Do I get a wristband?

Yes. Once we scan your ticket, you will receive your wristband. You must wear your wristband at all times while at the festival and you may be checked as you enter various venues.

When do the gates open?
Gates open at 8.30am daily.

Getting to the festival

  • How do I get to the Festival site?
  • Is there parking at the Festival?
  • Where can I drop off / pick up friends and family?
How do I get to the Festival site?
The Festival encourages all patrons residing in the Byron Bay CBD to use public transport if possible. A Festival shuttle bus and train service will be operating between Byron CBD and the Festival site from 8.00am and 8.00pm over the Festival weekend (Friday to Sunday) If you plan to drive, limited car parking is available on site. PLEASE NOTE: Traffic congestion expected. We highly recommend that if there is an option to ride-share or catch the train, that you do so. If driving we recommend arriving 45 minutes before Festival entry. For more details on planning your trip including timetables and maps, please refer to our travel page.
Is there parking at the Festival?
Limited onsite parking will open at 7.45am.  Onsite parking is approximately 200m from the Festival Entrance. Our parking volunteers will direct you as you approach the parking area. Parking is by donation.
  • Please be advised there may be significant delays on Ewingsdale Road and Bayshore Drive due to Festival traffic. To alleviate congestion and save time, we encourage those coming from Byron CBD to use the Festival shuttle or take the train.
  • Please obey all signage and the directions of our volunteers.
  • Byron Writers Festival is not responsible for fines imposed by Byron Shire Council or NSW Police for parking that is contrary to signage.
For car directions, please refer to our travel page.
Where can I drop off / pick up friends and family?
Please tell the parking volunteers you are ‘drop off only’ and follow directions to the public drop off area (bus stop).

At The Festival

  • Is there a cloakroom?
  • Can I charge my phone at the Festival?
  • Where is lost property?
  • Do I bring my own drink bottle?
  • Can I purchase food on site?
  • Where can I get a printed program from?
  • Is there an ATM onsite?
Is there a cloakroom?
There is no cloakroom at the Festival site. If you have baggage or suitcases, you will need to arrange your own safe storage.
Can I charge my phone at the Festival?
Unfortunately, we do not offer phone-charging services. Please come fully charged up!
Where is lost property?
Lost property is located as the Festival Information Booth. All unclaimed items will be returned to the Festival office and will need to be picked up from there after the Festival weekend has concluded.
Do I bring my own drink bottle?
Byron Writers Festival is a plastic water bottle free event. Please BYO bottles for refills. There will be a water refill station of spring water on site, and Byron Writers Festival water bottles for sale at the Information and Merchandise tent.
Can I purchase food on site?
Yes! A range of food stalls will be serving delicious local meals throughout each day of the Festival from our food marquee. Elements of Byron will be offering snacks, light meals and drinks from Summer Salt Bar. Festival patrons will need to make a booking in advance to dine at Azure Bar and Grill inside the resort.
Where can I get a printed program from?
Printed programs are available at the Festival entrance and Festival Information Tent. Please note our printed program is subject to last minute changes. An up-to-date daily program of sessions is available from our website. Keep a look out at the Festival site for signage and handouts advising of unavoidable last-minute program changes.
Is there an ATM onsite?
Yes. Please refer to the Festival Map for location. This will printed in the Festival Program.

Connect

#byronwf2020



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