Writers fest’s future under question after ’25 misstep

AN online survey inviting input into a review of the Bendigo Writers Festival will remain live until Monday 27 October.

Past attendees and former participants, including authors, hosts and speakers, staff and volunteers, local businesses and community members are encouraged to contribute.

City of Greater Bendigo chief executive officer Andrew Cooney said the review was an opportunity to pause and reflect on the festival’s 15-year history.

“The review allows us to consider what has worked well in the past, what could be improved and what the event may look like in the future,” he said.

“It will consider if the festival continues in its current format, if it is reimagined into a different format, or if funding should be reallocated to support the delivery of other literary events.

“We also acknowledge the 2025 festival was not the festival we wanted to hold, so it is an appropriate time to consider a range of options to help us move forward.”

As part of the review, the City said it will also engage with a cross-section of publishers that have previously been involved with the festival and meet with a group of local stakeholders identified as having helped establish the festival or having had significant involvement in past festivals.

It stated that all views on the value of the event are important and feedback provided through the survey and direct engagement with key parties will inform the outcome of the review.

To complete the survey, visit the Let’s Talk Greater Bendigo website.