Authors and journalists are set to descend on the Central Coast this month when Words on the Waves Writers’ Festival celebrates its fifth year of author talks, industry panels, literary readings, writing workshops and more.
From May 28 to June 1 the Central Coast will be spoilt for choice, with a wide variety of quality and engaging literary events on offer.
This celebration of the wonderful words, ideas and culture from the Central Coast will be illuminated by the theme: burning bright.
Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said she was thrilled to see Words on the Waves return for a fifth year.
“It is so wonderful to see Words on the Waves return for another year of literary discoveries and enlightening experiences,” she said.
“Events such as these not only enrich the cultural landscape of the Central Coast and bring new visitors, they also inspire and empower people to foster their creative side and reach their full potential.”
In addition to the popular main weekend program, Words on the Waves will again be running The Dip – a program of free and low-cost events aimed at increasing the accessibility of writer’s festivals.
Located at the Peninsula Recreation Precinct at Umina Beach, Saturday will see the The Dip host a full day of events for adults including affordable, short-form author talks, while Sunday will see the return of the festival’s free family fun day.
Full of fun and excitement for those big and small, activities on offer include craft workshops, live illustration demonstrations, face painting, story time, bubble blowers and more.
Festival director Angela Bennetts said the Central Coast was chosen to host the festival because the volunteer-powered committee recognised the Central Coast was a region of readers.
“The libraries were bustling and bookshops thriving, plus there are so many local creatives here that we love bringing into the festival program and shining a light on,” she said.
Of particular pride to festival organisers is the book launch program which showcases Central Coast authors at free events bringing the community together.
The program has grown from three book launches in its first year to seven in 2025, meaning there’s a book for every reader and plenty of opportunities to support local talent.
“It is fantastic to see such a fabulous program of treats and treasures on offer for Coasties and visitors alike to enjoy,” Tesch said.
“As Parliamentary Secretary for Disability Inclusion, I am thrilled that local author Casey Gray will be presenting her Easy Read book, Lennie’s Gift, as part of the festival’s book launch program on June 4.
“I look forward seeing the festival continue to flourish and expand in the years to come.”
A full program can be found at wordsonthewaves.com.au
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