The South Coast Readers & Writers Festival returned in 2026 with three jam-packed days celebrating reading, writing and creativity in Thirroul, NSW.

The program featured a vibrant line-up of author talks, book launches and workshops on topics ranging from crime fiction, history, young adult literature, poetry, environmental writing, publishing, memoir, literary journals and more.

EXPLORE THE FULL PROGRAM

MEET THE 2026 AUTHORS

“I thoroughly enjoyed being immersed in the world of books with a diverse group of likeminded people. It was enriching. I left feeling more connected to my own creativity.”

— 2025 festival attendee
“I loved the vibe of the event. For a regional place, it felt wonderfully international.”

— 2024 festival attendee
“It was so great to hear so many Australian writers speaking about their writing and about things they care about. As a young(ish) writer, there were some really positive messages I took from the panels.”

— 2025 festival attendee
“It was small enough to feel inspired, step out into the sun, and soak in the amazing talents we have in the local community.”

— 2024 festival attendee
“I appreciate the bravery in hosting panels relating to Gaza - it's devastating that it takes bravery to do so, but as much of the creative industry has shown it does at the moment, so thank you.”

— 2025 festival attendee

EXPLORE OUR PAST FESTIVALS

ARE YOU AN AUTHOR?

PITCH YOUR BOOK FOR OUR NEXT FESTIVAL

The South Coast Readers & Writers Festival returned in 2026 with three jam-packed days celebrating reading, writing and creativity in Thirroul, NSW.

“I thoroughly enjoyed being immersed in the world of books with a diverse group of likeminded people. It was enriching. I left feeling more connected to my own creativity.”

“I loved the vibe of the event. For a regional place, it felt wonderfully international.”

“It was so great to hear so many Australian writers speaking about their writing and about things they care about. As a young(ish) writer, there were some really positive messages I took from the panels.”

“It was small enough to feel inspired, step out into the sun, and soak in the amazing talents we have in the local community.”

“I appreciate the bravery in hosting panels relating to Gaza - it's devastating that it takes bravery to do so, but as much of the creative industry has shown it does at the moment, so thank you.”

EXPLORE OUR PAST FESTIVALS

ARE YOU AN AUTHOR?