Early call on 2025 festival – it’s on

THE City of Greater Bendigo has already committed to backing a 2025 Bendigo Writers Festival in response to the “standout success” of the August event.

Next year’s festival will take place from 15 to 17 August.

According to the City, more than 6300 people attended 77 sessions and events across nine venues from 16 to 18 August.

The program featured authors such as Alexis Wright, Kate Grenville, Thomas Mayo, Kerry O’Brien, Bruce Pascoe and Kate Forsyth.

Gastronomic treats included Caroline Parker’s Edible Weed Walk of Rosalind Park, A Seat At Kon And Sia’s Table lunch event, and An Evening With Julie Goodwin dinner, all of which sold out.

The festival’s opening gala, Up Close and Possibly Way Too Personal interview with Annabel Crabb, was moved from The Capital to the Ulumbarra Theatre to accommodate demand.

Bendigo Venues and Events manager Julie Amos said the City was delighted with the response to this year’s festival.

“The Bendigo Writers Festival is a highlight of our region’s events program each year, bringing together a veritable feast of writing and storytelling,” Ms Amos said.

“This year the festival returned to its August timeslot, with a new brand, look and feel, and new events including the Big Top with local artists and performers and the Djaara Arts Market.

“We were also pleased to make the festival more accessible, with AUSLAN interpretation available for select sessions, as well as taking the show on the road with events in Boort, Elmore and Heathcote.”

Ms Amos said examination of festival figures revealed that 50 per cent of attendees were from the Greater Bendigo area.

“It’s a terrific endorsement to see such strong local support for the event,” she said.

“Forty per cent came from regional Victoria and Melbourne combined, with many visitors staying for two nights or more.”

Ms Amos thanked everyone involved for making the festival such a success.

“We’re excited to start planning next year’s event, so add 15 to 17 August 2025 to your calendar now,” she said.