Byron Writers Festival is the largest regional writers festival in Australia.
We showcase writers from around the world, representing all aspects of contemporary literature, especially First Nations writing and ways of knowing, environment, politics, philosophy, art, history and society.
We are proud of our regionality, and ambitious in our approach to creating transformative experiences for artists and audiences.
What We Do
Established in 1995, at the heart of the Northern Rivers, the festival and year-round programs engage tens of thousands of audience members annually to develop and promote literature from and in the region.
Our artistic vision is to deliver world-class programs that provide transformative experiences for authors and audiences, and to ensure everybody is able to enjoy a life enriched by books, stories and ideas.
Byron Writers Festival delivers profound cultural, social and economic impact to NSW and Australia. We present a major cultural event in regional NSW, which 50% of our audience travels to attend. We support the careers of writers, a culture of literature and literacy, and experience tourism in our region.
Through our vibrant year-round program, we celebrate diverse Australian writers and stories, engage audiences with new ideas, and enhance access to literature and literacy for people regionally and nationally.
Our Vision & Mission
Lives transformed by writing and ideas.
To present world-class gatherings that enrich and transform the lives of our audiences and community.
Our Values
Connection
We connect writers with their readers in powerful gatherings, and emerging writers with the publishing industry. We are active agents in the cultural ecosystem by partnering widely, connecting our home in Byron Shire with the world.
Ambition
We are proud of our regionality and believe in presenting world-class literary gatherings for all audiences to enjoy. We host the best local, national and international writers at an impressive and unique festival. We develop a love of storytelling and literacy for future generations.
Nature
Our site-specific festival connects readers and writers to the spectacular natural environment of Bundjalung Country. We are deeply committed to place and the honouring of Country, and to furthering environmental causes, climate justice, and sustainable practices.
Authenticity
Our festival is identifiably 'Northern Rivers' in nature and style, reflecting our respect for the environment, community, and artistic practice, and we seek out partners with aligned values. We create genuine moments of human connection and provide the highest level of artist and audience care.
Our Team
Jessica Alice
Artistic Director
Shien Chee
Executive Director
Aarna Hudson
Development Manager
Clare McGregor
Program Manager
Cherrie Sheldrick
Travel Manager & Event Logistics
Simone Evans
Finance Manager
Kate Reynolds
Marketing Manager
Lucy Colli
Administrator
Our Board
Byron Writers Festival is a not-for-profit, registered charity, governed by a volunteer board.
Courtney Miller
Chair
Cheryl Bourne
Treasurer
Hilarie Dunn
Secretary
Lynda Dean OAM
Public Officer
Marele Day
Member
Lynda Hawryluk
Member
Grace Lucas-Pennington
Member
Sarah Armstrong
Member
Lesley-Anne Houghton
Member
David Heilpern
Member
Jesse Blackadder
In Memorium
Our History
Byron Writers Festival '25 tickets
Byron Writers Festival is Australia's largest regional literature festival and the beating heart of the Northern Rivers' intellectual and cultural life.
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Stay in the know with the latest updates on Byron Writers Festival, year-round events, workshops, competitions and news.
