Festival | Byron Writers Festival

Find links to 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.

Please note the new festival site is located at Bangalow Showgrounds, Bangalow (approx 15min drive from Byron Bay). A frequent shuttle service will run between Byron Bay CBD and the festival site.

Elements of Byron Resort

An internationally award-winning resort with world-class facilities, Elements of Byron is an exceptional Byron Bay location, ideal for a comfortable and relaxing Writers Festival stay.

Situated on 22 hectares in an unspoiled beachside environment, the resort has 193 standalone private villas, each designed to celebrate its locale’s four ecologies: rainforest, dunal, eucalypt and wetlands; and its abundant native flora and fauna.

During your stay explore temperature-controlled pools, diverse dining experiences, beachfront sunrise yoga, guided rainforest tours, a horse ranch and signature treatments at the on-site Osprey Spa.

Take a 5-minute train ride to the centre of Byron for local shopping, restaurants and more.

For more information: elementsofbyron.com.au
To make a booking call 02 6639 1500

Crystalbrook Byron

Nestled in 45-acres of magical subtropical rainforest, Crystalbrook Byron 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 signature restaurant, Forest, Eléme Day Spa, daily yoga classes, tennis court and infinity pool, Crystalbrook Byron is proud to offer sustainable luxury loved by locals and travellers alike.

For more information: crystalbrookcollection.com/byron

The Sunseeker, Byron Bay

The Sunseeker, Byron Bay is ‘80s brick motel nostalgia reimagined in every way into a boutique accommodation experience for the modern conscious traveller. Hidden behind the magnificent beaches of Byron Bay, on Bundjalung Country, The Sunseeker is nestled just out of the hustle and bustle of the main town. With beautifully considered rooms, bungalow-style stays, poolside lounging and lush tropical gardens, The Sunseeker offers a secluded holiday hideaway for the most discerning travelling. A portion of every stay at The Sunseeker supports 1% for the Planet.

Use code WRITERSFEST23 for a 10% discount on stays booked over Byron Writers Festival weekend from 10 – 13 August, 2023.

thesunseeker.com.au

The Bank House Bangalow

The Bank House Bangalow accommodation is a luxurious heritage home located centrally in the iconic Bangalow township. Step up off the main street and walk into the European-inspired secret garden where the outside world rushes by and time stands still. The Bank House Bangalow accommodation features three bedrooms, a private studio, a European inspired outdoor space with an entertaining patio, chef’s kitchen, pool and award-winning gardens. The bedrooms, dining room and living room are curated with hand-selected furnishings, sumptuous linens and beautiful artworks. The perfect luxe getaway in the heart of Bangalow.

thebankhousebangalow.com

Bangalow Guesthouse

Bangalow Guesthouse is an elegant, early 1900’s heritage property nestled in the heart of Bangalow. The 3-acre grounds are bordered by Byron Creek and Bangalow Guesthouse offers sumptuously furnished, elegant suites and cottages that are the pinnacle of comfort. In the main house, four beautiful bedroom suites are uniquely decorated and fully furnished complete with ensuite bathroom and wonderfully comfortable bed, located down the hall from the grand living room, fully equipped kitchen and generous wrap around veranda. Located within the garden are three contemporary cottages and an apartment, offering the ultimate getaway. Each cottage is luxuriously furnished, with generous ensuite bathroom, cosy reading corner, mini-kitchen and sunny veranda with delightful garden and creek views.

bangalowguesthouse.com.au

Bask & Stow

Relaxed coastal living meets mid-century design, Bask & Stow is a proud sponsor of the Byron Writers Festival.

Created by award-winning local architect Harley Graham, the light-filled, minimalist suites and lush gardens allow guests to relax, restore, and unwind.

baskandstow.com.au

Other holiday letting providers

Byron Bay Accommodation

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The festival site is located at the grounds adjacent to Elements of Byron Resort, 144 Bayshore Drive Byron Bay (approximately 5km from Byron town centre). Festival gates open at 8.30am each day. We encourage you to use public transport if possible.

By Solar Train

The Byron Solar Train runs approximately every half hour from Byron Beach station on Lawson St in Byron CBD to North Beach Station at the end of Bayshore Drive, approximately 200m from festival gates. This service is provided for free by Byron Writers Festival. Timetable available here.

By Shuttle Bus

A festival shuttle bus will operate between Byron Bay Interchange in Byron CBD and the festival site. The bus will depart from the Byron Interchange every 30 minutes from 7.30am. Final departure from the festival bus stop is at 6pm on Friday and Saturday and 5pm on Sunday. The shuttle bus is a free service provided by Byron Writers Festival.

By Car

Limited car parking is available at the Festival site from 7.45am. Parking is by donation. To alleviate traffic congestion and limit carbon emissions, we encourage carpooling if possible. Please park as directed by the parking attendants. Please ensure that you obey Council parking signs.

By Bike

Bikes can be parked and locked to the safety fencing at the festival entrance where signposted. Please ride safely and be mindful of merging traffic, parked cars and pedestrians.

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

For transfer options from Ballina Byron Gateway, head to ballinabyronairport.com.au/transport

For transfer option from Gold Coast Airport, head to Byron Bay Express

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, visit Transport for NSW Regional website

Bus

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

nrwadmin

anika

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Byron Writers Festival 2023 will take place this August 11 — 13 at our newly confirmed venue, the beautiful Bangalow Showgrounds.

Bangalow Showgrounds is a picturesque heritage site nestled in the heart of Bangalow, a charming village just a stone’s throw from Byron Bay and home to a vibrant and creative community. The festival will also be making use of several indoor venues within the precinct, including the Moller Pavilion and the iconic Bangalow A&I Hall. We are very much looking forward to bringing the site to life and creating a playground of literary delights for audiences, so stay tuned as we share more details over the coming months.

We are grateful to Elements for generously hosting the festival for so long and will treasure the many wonderful memories we all share. As with all good things, an end has now eventuated and the Elements site is destined to a new owner and a new future.

We can’t wait to bring authors and audiences together again at our new site on Bundjalung land in Bangalow this August for what will surely be a truly special event.

We look forward to seeing you there.

2023 Key Dates and Ticketing Info

29 March — 5 April
Extra Early Bird 3-Day Passes
Lowest price 3-Day passes (one week only)
No guests will be announced at this time
$225 Members / $265 General

14 — 21 June
Early Bird 3-Day Passes
Available one week only
First guests announced
$235 Members / $275 General

22 June
Sunday Locals tickets
Limited release, conditions apply
$90

27 June
Member access to full program and 24 hour priority booking window

28 June
Full program announced
All tickets on sale
3-Day Pass $255 members / $295 general
1-Day Pass, $110 members / $135 general

11 — 13 August
Festival Weekend!

Join as a member and save

Join today for discounts on Festival tickets. Other festival member benefits include a special preview of the Full Program online and a 24 hour priority booking window. You can read the full list of annual member benefits and sign up via our Members Page.

Got a question?

For further information about the 2023 Festival and how it will run, please refer to our FAQs page.

Stay in the loop

We encourage you to remain signed up to our e-newsletter and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for important Festival updates and announcements.

Travel and parking

The new festival site is located at Bangalow Showgrounds (approx 15min drive of Byron Bay).

On-site car parking will be adjacent to the festival and within easy walking distance of where the action takes place.

A frequent shuttle service will run between Byron Bay CBD, Elements of Byron, and the festival site. The shuttle bus will drop passengers off close to the festival entrance gates.

Donate to Byron Writers Festival

As a not-for-profit organisation run with a small team of staff and volunteers, donations of any size go a long way in enriching the creative culture of our community and contributing to the success of future Festivals. Donations over $2 are tax deductible. Thank you!

DONATE

BUY EARLY BIRD PASSES

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E-NEWSLETTER SUBSCRIBE

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Announcing… Trent Dalton, Indira Naidoo, Ben Quilty, Evelyn Araluen, Jessie Cole, Yves Rees.

We are thrilled to share a taste of what’s in store for Byron Writers Festival 2022. Join us this 26—28 August for a three-day festival of ideas, conversation and storytelling in one of the world’s most beautiful coastal locations.

International bestseller Trent Dalton, award-winning contemporary artist Ben Quilty and one of Australia’s most popular broadcasters, author Indira Naidoo are just some of the leading lights heading to Byron Shire to inspire audiences. We will also welcome 2022 Stella Prize winning poet Evelyn Araluen, acclaimed Northern Rivers author Jessie Cole and award winning author and historian Yves Rees.

Read on to discover more about these guests and their books. Mark 13 July in your calendar for the full program announcement and all tickets on sale.

Early Bird 3-Day Passes on sale for one week only

Book your Early Bird 3-Day Passes now and save! Available from 9am Wednesday 15 June until midnight Tuesday 21 June.

Full price tickets, including 1-Day Passes, go on sale when the program is announced on 13 July.

Early Bird 3-Day Passes start at $235 for members — a saving of $64 on full price 3-Day Passes (or three days for just over the price of two!)

BUY EARLY BIRD PASSES

Meet the Writers

Evelyn Araluen

Born and raised on Dharug country, Evelyn Araluen is a descendant of the Bundjalung Nation and is an exciting, vibrant young voice in Australian writing. Her debut collection of poetry and prose Dropbear was awarded the 2022 Stella Prize, the first time a collection of poetry has won this coveted prize celebrating female authors. Dropbear confronts the tropes and iconography of an unreconciled nation with biting satire and lyrical fury.

Jessie Cole

Northern Rivers author Jessie Cole is the author of four books. Tim Winton described her memoir Staying as ‘A wounded, lovely, luminous book about grief, trauma and the strange healing potential of words’. Cole’s latest book Desire is an unabashed, thrilling exploration of the very nature of desire, a story about vulnerability and strength, loss and regeneration. A memoir of the body, Desire is a visceral book in which feeling and longing are laid bare.

Trent Dalton

One of Australia’s most loved authors Trent Dalton gained international recognition with his bestselling, semi-autobiographical novel Boy Swallows Universe followed by All Our Shimmering Skies, a novel that journeys deep into the heart of Australia. For his latest book Love Stories, Dalton spent weeks on a Brisbane street corner with an old Olivetti typewriter and asked people to tell him a love story. The result is a warm, wise, poignant, funny and moving book about love in all its guises, told by Australians from all walks of life.

Indira Naidoo

During her thirty-year award-winning journalistic career, Indira Naidoo has hosted and reported for some of the country’s most distinguished news and current affair programs. A passionate advocate for environmental and food sustainability issues, she is author of the bestselling The Edible Balcony and The Edible City. Her latest book A Space Between the Stars, written after the death of her sister, is a beautiful tribute to love, loss and the magical power of nature to heal.

Ben Quilty

Ben Quilty is one of Australia’s most famous living artists. From the dangerous coming of age rituals of young Australian men, to the complex social history of his country, he is constantly critiquing notions of identity, patriotism and belonging. A celebrated war artist, his latest series of work and the accompanying book Free Fall, revisits the iconic images taken by photojournalist (and cousin) Andrew Quilty of the 2005 Cronulla riots and explores the modern phenomenon of Ultimate Fighting Championships.

Yves Rees

Dr Yves Rees is an award-winning writer and historian, a Lecturer in History at La Trobe University, co-host of Archive Fever podcast and presenter of a regular history segment on ABC Radio Melbourne. Their memoir All About Yves tells their moving journey of re-becoming, at the same time laying bare the messiness of bodies, gender and identity. It shares the challenges and joys of being transgender in Australia today, and reveals how trans experiences like Yves’ can teach all of us about what it means to be human.

BUY EARLY BIRD PASSES

2022 Key Dates and Ticketing Info

15 — 22 June: First guests announced, Early Bird 3-Day Passes available for one week only, $235 members, $275 general
30 June: Sunday Locals’ tickets on sale (limited release, conditions apply), $90
12 July: Full program and 24 hour priority booking window available for members
13 July: Full program announced and all Festival, Workshop and Satellite Event tickets on sale: 3-Day Pass $255 members / $299 general; 1-Day Pass, $110 members / $135 general
26 — 28 August: Festival Weekend

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.
For full terms and conditions, click here.

Stay Covid Safe

Byron Writers Festival is committed to the wellbeing of all Festival attendees, participants and staff. We will be keeping updated with Covid safety restrictions and will continue to strictly follow the guidelines as set out by the NSW Department of Health.

Join as a member and save

Got a question?

For further information about the 2022 Festival and how it will run, please refer to our FAQs page.

Stay in the loop

We encourage you to remain signed up to our e-newsletter and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for important Festival updates and announcements.

Travel and parking

The new festival site is located at North Byron Parklands, 126 Tweed Valley Way, Yelgun (approx 20min drive north of Byron Bay).

On-site car parking will be adjacent to the festival and within easy walking distance of where the action takes place.

A free shuttle service will run between Byron Bay CBD, Elements of Byron, and the festival site. The shuttle bus will drop passengers off close to the festival entrance gates.

Donate to Byron Writers Festival

DONATE

BUY TICKETS

VIEW FESTIVAL PROGRAM

Featuring Trent Dalton, Hannah Kent, Bruce Pascoe, Indira Naidoo, Ben Quilty, Masha Gessen, Evelyn Araluen, Steve Toltz, Emily Bitto, A.C. Grayling, Julia Baird, Costa Georgiadis, Aaron Fa’Aoso, Jess Hill, Damon Gameau, Marcia Langton and many more.

Byron Writers Festival 2022 Program is LIVE! Themed ‘Radical Hope’, dive in and discover the writers and thinkers who will inspire and uplift us this 26—28 August at Australia’s favourite regional literary festival.

‘Now is the time for a radical kind of hope, that imagines the world anew, that refuses to be defeated and finds delight and joy in everything this wonderful life and earth have to offer.’ — Zoë Pollock, Artistic Director

At this year’s festival you will hear from social and environmental experts on how we can tackle the challenge that is climate change. You will be uplifted by listening to our most gifted storytellers explaining how they celebrate the human condition and render our experiences so magnificently on the page. You will meet talented emerging and established writers who are challenging the status quo. In hearing and engaging with these ideas you are playing your part in making the world anew.

We look forward to welcoming you.

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VIEW ALL WRITERS

VIEW ALL WRITERS BUY TICKETS

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VIEW FULL PROGRAM

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VIEW FEATURE EVENTS

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VIEW KIDS BIG DAY OUT

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VIEW SATELLITE EVENTS

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VIEW WORKSHOPS

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BOOK NOW

A 3-Day Pass gives access to all 99 sessions happening in the main Festival Program on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
—
$299 General
$255 Members & Students

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BOOK NOW

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

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BOOK NOW

Kids Big Day Out, Sunday 28 August
$40 for 1 adult + 1 child*

Sunday Family Pass
$175 for 2 adults + 1 child*

*Access restrictions and conditions apply. $20 for each additional child (6 – 12 years), children under 6 free.

Notes and conditions

All tickets are subject to availability and booking fees.
Children must be supervised by at least one adult at ALL times.
Tickets will be exchanged on entry for a wristband that is non-transferable.
Parking opens at 7:45am. Gates open at 8.30am.
For full terms and conditions, including Covid-safe flexible ticketing policies and conditions of entry, visit byronwritersfestival.com/terms-conditions

Join as a Member and save!

Stay Covid Safe

Byron Writers Festival is committed to the wellbeing of all Festival attendees, participants and staff. For updates, please check our Stay Covid Safe page.

Got a question?

For further information about the 2022 Festival and how it will run, please refer to our FAQs page.

Stay in the loop

We encourage you to remain signed up to our e-newsletter and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for important Festival updates and announcements.

Travel and parking

The new festival site is located at North Byron Parklands, 126 Tweed Valley Way, Yelgun (approx 20min drive north of Byron Bay). On-site car parking will be adjacent to the festival and within easy walking distance of where the action takes place. A free shuttle service will run between Byron Bay CBD, Elements of Byron, and the festival site. The shuttle bus will drop passengers off close to the festival entrance gates. More information available on our travel page.

Donate to Byron Writers Festival

DONATE NOW

More Details

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anika

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WRITERS

Byron Writers Festival is supported by the NSW Government through Create NSW.

Byron Writers Festival 2022 is supported by the Restart Investment to Sustain and Expand (RISE) Fund – an Australian Government Initiative.

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Byron Writers Festival 2022 is assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council, its arts funding and advisory body.

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This project was made possible through a Regional Arts Fund Renewal Grant provided by Regional Arts NSW through the Regional Arts Fund, an Australian Government initiative supporting the arts in regional, remote and very remote Australia.

Tourism Australia is the Australian Government agency responsible for attracting international visitors to Australia, both for leisure and business events.

At Southern Cross University we harness the combined forces of compelling research, leading educators and our extraordinary communities to improve the university experience and make a positive impact in the world. Together, we are Transforming Tomorrow.

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Greenstone Partners is a leading independent corporate advisory firm. We support several organisations, charities and events including Byron Writers Festival.

In the past 30 years, First National Byron Bay has cemented its position as the region’s number one agency, servicing a footprint that extends from Wardell to Byron Bay, Bangalow, the Hinterland, Mullumbimby and New Brighton.

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Copyright Agency’s Create Grants are open for mid-career Australian writers and artists to create new work for publication/performance or exhibition. See the Copyright Agency website for details.

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Schwartz Media publishes Australia’s most respected writers across The Saturday Paper, The Monthly and 7a m. Our audiences read to know, not just to agree.

Your independent source of local news on the NSW North Coast: Delivering online daily news and a free weekly newspaper The Byron Shire Echo.

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Luxury beachfront resort with private villas dotted throughout nature. Facilities include two pools, a day spa, rainforest walks, gym, tennis courts and horse stables.

89 Degrees East is a national data, strategy and delivery agency. Founded in Byron Bay and with bases across Australia, we deliver campaigns that change the world for the better.

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Bolinda is a specialist Library supplier, number one Audiobook publisher in the Southern Hemisphere and the largest audiobook and large print supplier in Australia and New Zealand.

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The Book Room Collective is an independent and locally owned group of bookshops in the Northern Rivers, operating from Byron Bay and Lennox Head. The shops are carefully curated to ensure every opportunity to explore and discover.

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Brookfarm is a leading Australian gourmet food producer, committed to sustainable agriculture and premium food production. “It starts on the family farm” with Brookfarm’s prized macadamias, and award winning range of muesli, granola and premium snacks baked in our Byron Bay bakehouse.

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Business NSW is an independent not-for-profit organisation; our purpose is to be a strong voice for the issues important to your business.

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Byron Farmers Market has the freshest range of locally grown produce direct from our farmers, including seasonal fruit and vegetables, pasture-raised meat and eggs, artisan cheese and bread, nuts, honey, rice, pasta and more!

Byron Shire is a ‘meeting place’ – where people can come together to connect, share, grow, inspire, and create positive change.

Caldera Coffee is the continuation of a family tradition, with the founder growing up on a coffee plantation in Newrybar, in the Byron Bay hinterland where Caldera Coffee is roasted today. Caldera Coffee is sourced from organic farms and is a smooth medium roast with flavours of caramel and chocolate. Enjoy!

Enrich your Writing.
Discover the Jewel of Byron.
A short scenic journey into Byron Bay’s hinterland lies a magical sanctuary. Crystal Castle is home to the world’s largest natural crystals where you can sit in an ancient amethyst cave.

Nestled in 45-acres of magical subtropical rainforest, Crystalbrook Byron is a celebration of nature, responsible luxury and the local environment.

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IngramSpark® is an award-winning independent publishing platform that provides the indie-publishing community the same global distribution, print and digital products used by big-time publishers.

Merry People was founded by Danielle Holloway to solve a problem: she needed functional, comfortable boots suited to both outdoor adventures and her city commutes. Now shipping worldwide, Merry People makes versatile gumboots, designed to be worn all day & is on a mission to inspire people to find fun every day!

Openbook is a glossy, 100-page magazine about books, history, art and ideas, published by the State Library of NSW. Inside each issue you’ll find feature articles, new writing, photo-essays, author profiles, reviews and more. Subscribe or give as a gift!

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Pukka inspires you to a healthier, happier world through incredible organic herbal teas that are as good for you as they are for the planet.

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Established in 2001, Quarterly Essay presents the widest range of political, intellectual and cultural opinion, and aims to foster debate. It offers a forum for original long-form investigations, profiles and arguments. Each issue contains a single long-form essay, followed by correspondence on previous essays.

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Stone & Wood, Australia’s first B Corp Brewery, brewing approachable beers in Byron Bay since 2008. Dedicated to the idea that beer can be a force for good.

Summerland Credit Union is an ethical and sustainable financial institution with 10 branches across the Northern Rivers of New South Wales and South East Queensland.

Tamara Smith MP is the Member for Ballina and NSW Greens spokesperson for Education, Tourism, Regional Communities, the North Coast and Climate Change.

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The Walkley Foundation’s mission is to benchmark the best in Australian journalism, engage both media and the public in valuing and supporting journalism, and invest in programs that support journalism.

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Frontline Print and Copy Centre is Byron Bay’s premier copy and digital print centre. With our state of the art Xerox, Canon and Oce equipment, and knowledgeable staff we can handle any size print job from flyers, to posters, to wide format.

Milligram has a passion for design and stylish stationery and has firmly established itself as the premier destination for cult favourite brands from pen icons like LAMY and Kaweco to local and international notebook makers like Rhodia, Clairefontaine, Moleskine and more.

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Rochdale Accounting & Advisory help you manage every aspect of your personal and business finances, and because we establish a personal relationship with each of our clients, our advice will be tailored for your needs.

The Sunseeker is ’80s brick motel nostalgia reimagined into a boutique accommodation experience for the modern conscious traveller. Hidden behind the magnificent beaches of Byron Bay, The Sunseeker is a family-friendly retro hub, offering beautifully considered rooms, bungalow-style stays, poolside lounging, and lush tropical gardens.

Australian Digital Concert Hall (ADCH) was created to connect artists and communities everywhere through music and technology during COVID. To date ADCH has enabled over $2 million to be raised by artists.

Blak & Bright is a First Nations Literary organisation and Festival established in 2016. They showcase and celebrate First Nations writers across all genres.

Environmental Music Prize is the world’s first music prize aimed at amplifying the voices of artists who inspire action for climate and conservation. A new prize for ‘Emerging Environmental Songwriter’ was created in partnership with Byron Writers Festival, and awarded to Nidala Barker.

Faber Writing Academy is the writing school inside Allen & Unwin, Australia’s leading independent publishing company, with courses run by renowned writers, publishers and agents.

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Established in 2003, Griffith Review is a key part of Australia’s literary ecology, continuing to spark and foster public discourse that reflects and shapes our nation’s cultural, political and social life.

The Indigenous Literacy Foundation is a national charity with a vision of equity of opportunity. Its programs provide access to books, publish community stories, and empower remote communities to lead their own literacy futures. Donate today: www.ilf.org.au

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NORPA is one of Australia’s most exciting regional theatre companies. NORPA makes theatre from the ground up, taking inspiration from the country and culture of the Northern Rivers.

Screenworks is a registered charity that provides support, leadership and vision for the regional screen industries in Australia by offering screen-related development and networking opportunities, programs and initiatives for people living in regional, rural and remote Australia.

A popular destination in Murwillumbah, Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre offers stunning views of the Tweed Valley and presents an engaging program of exhibitions, activities and events.

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Word Travels is a not for profit arts organisation, organising literary and literacy programs for festivals, private companies, libraries, schools and cultural institutions around the Asia Pacific with a focus on developing performing writers.

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ABC North Coast – Discover the latest in news, entertainment and sport plus the best stories from across your region. On air, online, on social and the ABC listen app.

Apex Outdoor is a leader in acquiring and developing exclusive sites for digital billboards and out-of-home advertising throughout Australia.

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Blank is your local street press; an independent voice for music, arts, lifestyle and community. Available free in print bi-monthly and always online, we’re on a mission to transform our regions cultural landscape.

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byronbay.com has been helping people plan their visit to our region since 1997 – providing a direct connection and sense of place via their popular website, blogs and socials.

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Dumbo Feather is a global media organisation based in St Kilda, Australia that shares stories of people building a hopeful future. Through its tri-annual print publication, fortnightly podcast and online platforms, Dumbo Feather seeks to nourish and support a generation of change.

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Rusty’s Byron Guide is a magazine to inspire independent thinking and conscious action. It has been working to represent and reflect the Byron community since 1984.

Bob And Patti Lowry
Chris Hanley & Dawn Standfield
Christopher & Lynda Dean
John & Melissa Hertzberg
Scott Malcolm & Jane Taylor
Tom & Sibylle Vidal

Auckland Writers Festival
Auslan Interpreters
Bask & Stow
Bay FM
Brian Warrick
Bruce Pollock
Brunswick River Inn
Byron Bay Milk Co.
Byron Theatre
Byron Bay Chocolate Co.

Daniel Browning
Delta Kay
Edwina Johnson
Fallen BROKEN Street
Grace Lucas-Pennington
Hilarie Dunn
Jill Eddington
Leweena Williams
Marele Day
Mat Morris

Newington College
Northern Rivers Plant Hire
Penny Leonard
Rhoda Roberts
The Cellar
The Rails Hotel
The Regent
The Wheeler Centre
Tweed Party Hire
UNSW Centre for Ideas

Plus all the publishers who assisted in creating the 2022 Byron Writers Festival Program

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What are the dates for the 2023 festival and where will it be held?
Where will the 2023 festival be held?
Where are the Bangalow Showgrounds?
Is there parking at the Festival site?
Will there be shuttle buses?
Why are you moving to the new site?
How will the festival differ at Bangalow Showgrounds?
How can I find out what is on?
Do I need to buy tickets?
Are the writers Australian or international?
Do I need to be a writer to enjoy the Festival?
What happens at Byron Writers Festival?
Do Festival sessions have allocated seating?

What are the dates for the 2023 festival and where will it be held?

Byron Writers Festival 2023 will take place Friday 11 — Sunday 13 August. Schools programming and workshops will be held the week prior from Monday 7 August.

Where will the 2023 festival be held?

The 2023 festival will be held at Bangalow Showgrounds, a charming heritage listed site within Byron Shire. Bangalow Showgrounds is a beautiful festival site with the added bonus of the historic A&I Hall indoor venue.

Where are the Bangalow Showgrounds?

Bangalow Showgrounds is in the heart of Byron Shire less than 15 minutes from Byron Bay town. It is a short walk to the Bangalow village shops and vibrant cafe scene.

Is there parking at the Festival site?

Yes, on-site car parking will be adjacent to the Festival and within easy walking distance of where the action takes place.

Will there be shuttle buses?

Yes, a shuttle service will run between Byron Bay CBD and the festival site. The shuttle bus will drop passengers off close to the Festival entrance gates.

Why are you moving to the new site?

Following a long tenure adjacent to Elements of Byron, the Festival is moving as the Elements site is no longer available.

How will the festival differ at Bangalow Showgrounds?

Byron Writers Festival will continue to offer the same wonderful three-day experience as in previous years. Patrons will have access to several outdoor marquees and indoor venues filled with conversations, panels, storytelling and ideas. There will be food, coffee and market stalls on site, as well as the festival bookshop.

How can I find out what is on?

The full program of events will be available online from 28 June 2023. The program will include all festival sessions, satellite events and workshops. For program please subscribe to our e-newsletter. Release dates for tickets can be found here. Please subscribe to our e-newsletter for writer announcements and ticket release updates.

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.

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 may find an international guest scattered among the line-up, but our philosophy ensures that Australian writing is of core significance in the program.

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 at the beautiful Bangalow Showgrounds, with five main venues 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 additional Feature Events onsite and Satellite Events around the region.

Do Festival sessions have allocated seating?

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

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 Kids Big Day Out are interpreted each day of the Festival. You can also go to the Information Tent and request AUSLAN interpreters on an as-needs basis. If you require an AUSLAN interpreter, please email [email protected].

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.

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 Artistic 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 a small dedicated team of staff, contractors and a hands on Committee. Any available employment opportunities 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.

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?

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.

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 at 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 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.

Where can I get a printed program from?

Printed programs are distributed in the Byron Shire Echo upon program announcement and will be available during festival weekend 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.

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