The Newcastle Writers Festival has revealed an impressive lineup of literary and cultural figures to venues across the city, as well as Cessnock and Port Stephens.
More than 150 writers will participate in this year’s festival, including renowned names like Jimmy Barnes, Helen Garner, Antony Loewenstein, and Ziggy Ramo. With an array of discussions, performances, and events on offer, the festival promises to be a must-attend for book lovers and creative minds alike.
Kicking off the festival is the highly anticipated opening night gala at Newcastle City Hall, featuring Gina Chick, the winner of the first-ever Alone Australia series and author of the best-selling memoir We Are the Stars.
Hosted by Benjamin Law, the evening will be a live version of his Good Weekend magazine series Dicey Topics, setting the stage for a weekend of dynamic conversations and storytelling.
The festival program is packed with events catering to a wide range of literary interests. Attendees can look forward to talks by high-profile authors such as Jane Caro, Michael Robotham, and Virginia Trioli, alongside acclaimed literary figures including Robbie Arnott, Michelle de Kretser, and Markus Zusak.
Festival director Rosemarie Milsom describes the lineup as a “feast for story-lovers,” with opportunities to hear from favourite authors, discover new talent, and immerse in the vibrant literary atmosphere.
Adding a unique creative touch, Words & Music will make its return to the Conservatorium of Music on April 5. Curated by Nick Milligan, the event will showcase local and visiting musicians performing original works inspired by festival authors.
Artists such as William Crighton, Melody Pool, and Ziggy Ramo will bring literature to life through song, making for an unforgettable night of storytelling through music. Meanwhile, a special program at the University of Newcastle’s Wollotuka Institute will highlight First Nations voices, featuring activist Thomas Mayo and poet Jeanine Leane.
The University of Newcastle’s Nuspace city campus will serve as the festival hub, complete with food vans, live music, and a pop-up bookstore managed by MacLean’s Booksellers. With a mix of free and ticketed events, the festival is expected to attract book enthusiasts from across the region.
The Newcastle Writers Festival 2025 will be back from 4 Friday to 6 Sunday April. The full program is available and tickets are now on sale at newcastlewritersfestival.org.au. An audio version of the program is also accessible via the festival’s website, ensuring inclusivity for all attendees.
