Coffs Harbour readers and writers will have front-row access to some of Australia’s biggest literary names later this month, with the Sydney Writers’ Festival returning live to Yarrila Place.
Selected sessions from the 2026 festival will be streamed at the Harry Bailey Memorial Library from 21–24 May, bringing internationally recognised authors, chefs, journalists and thinkers directly to local audiences.
Mayor Nikki Williams said the free program highlighted Yarrila Place as a major cultural hub for the region.
“Head along to this free event at Yarrila Place and buckle up for thought-provoking conversations and lively debates starring some of the world’s leading writers and thinkers,” Williams said.
“This event at the Harry Bailey Memorial Library was well attended last year, so jump onto the Coffs Libraries website now to see the program and book the sessions you simply don’t want to miss.”
The four-day program gives Coffs Harbour audiences access to live discussions and audience Q&As with high-profile guests including chef Stephanie Alexander, author Trent Dalton and journalist Antoinette Lattouf.
City of Coffs Harbour Cultural Services Section Leader Jessica Wilson said the live-streamed format allowed local audiences to engage directly with festival speakers in Sydney.
“Each will include a live Q&A, so people will be able to send their questions straight to the speakers in Sydney as the conversation unfolds,” Wilson said.
“It’s massive to have access to some of the brightest creative talents and insightful minds from the comfort of home here in Coffs.”
Among the featured sessions is Stephanie Alexander discussing the 30th anniversary edition of The Cook’s Companion with Adam Liaw, while bestselling author Trent Dalton will speak about his latest novel, Gravity Let Me Go.
Audiences will also hear from Booker Prize-winning and shortlisted authors during a special panel discussion, alongside Antoinette Lattouf, whose new book Women Who Win explores free speech, workplace rights and the stories of Australian women who challenged authority.
Wilson said the event offered the community the chance to experience one of Australia’s leading literary festivals without leaving the region.
“Be part of one of Australia’s most celebrated festivals of literature, ideas and storytelling, from the comfort and convenience of Coffs Harbour,” she said.
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