Readers across the North Coast and Mid North Coast will again have front-row access to one of the country’s biggest literary events, with local venues taking part in the 2026 Sydney Writers’ Festival (SWF) Live & Local program.
Libraries and community spaces across the region, including centres in Gloucester and within the wider Mid North Coast library network, will host livestreamed sessions from 21 to 24 May, connecting local audiences to headline festival events in Sydney.
The program continues to expand its regional reach, reflecting strong demand from communities outside metropolitan areas for access to major cultural events.
Sydney Writers’ Festival Artistic Director Ann Mossop said Live & Local was designed to ensure audiences beyond the capital cities could take part in the national conversation.
“Each year, the program connects readers in regional and remote Australia with some of the most sought-after events in our program, delivered in their local venues,” Mossop said.
North Coast audiences will be able to watch sessions featuring leading international and Australian authors, including Slow Horses creator Mick Herron, Life of Pi author Yann Martel and bestselling novelist Trent Dalton. Also on the program are Florence Knapp, Lily King and children’s author Dav Pilkey, who will host a live drawing event for younger readers.
The four-day schedule includes discussions on major global issues such as misinformation, artificial intelligence and the future of democracy, alongside sessions exploring storytelling across books, film and television.
More than 150 venues nationwide will take part in Live & Local this year, highlighting the growing role of regional communities in Australia’s literary landscape.
For North Coast audiences, the program offers a practical alternative to travelling to Sydney, bringing high-profile writers and ideas directly to local venues.
Full program details are available at swf.org.au
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