Eumundi Writers Festival returns with big literary conversations in intimate settings
The 2026 Eumundi Writers Festival, 4-6 September, involves more than 45 authors, journalists and poets with over 35 events across six venues in the village.
Eumundi's boutique format gives audiences rare access to some of Australia's most celebrated writers through intimate workshops, meet-the-author book signings, Literary Lounge events, poetry recitals and informal conversations throughout the weekend.
This year's theme, The Human Condition, brings together exceptional Australian literary voices whose work explores love, loss, identity, resilience, politics, history, crime, romance, journalism and the universal stories that connect us.
"Stories have the power to bring people together and to support conversations that matter - that’s the magic of the Eumundi Writers Festival," said Festival Director Dr Suzanne Campin.
The festival also welcomes influential Australian leaders and changemakers including former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, headlines the festival in conversation with The Betoota Advocate editor Clancy Overell, while Bob Abbott – who won ten consecutive elections in his distinguished career – will reflect on public life and what will be in his memoir.
The program includes Stella Nominee Laura Jean McKay and Steve MinOn, recently nominated for the Miles Franklin Award. A Father’s Day special features festival favourite, award winning author, Simon Cleary and son Dominic together with Kári Gislason and son Magnús discussing father-son travel memoirs. Author Sarah Cochrane Ridout in conversation with Kristina Olsson will bring a unique personal perspective as the granddaughter of Kath Cochrane, who worked alongside Oodgeroo Noonuccal in the successful campaign for the 1967 Referendum, enriching festival conversations about identity, truth-telling and belonging.
For aspiring writers, the festival has opportunities to learn directly from leading authors and publishing professionals. Small-group workshops cover crime writing, children's literature and romance to editing, publishing, book design and artificial intelligence, giving participants creative and business development opportunities. Acclaimed romance author Anna Campbell and Professor Roly Sussex will talk of love and why telling the truth matters at the free closing ceremony.
The full program and tickets are available at https://eumundiwritersfestival.com.au.