Byron Writers Festival local passes for literary lovers

NORTHERN Rivers book lovers can enjoy a special deal to attend the Byron Writers Festival on Sunday August 10, with heavily discounted locals’ passes now available.

Residents of the Byron, Ballina, Kyogle, Lismore, Richmond Valley and Tweed council areas are eligible to purchase $99 Sunday passes — saving $46 off the standard price. The offer is available from 9am on Thursday June 5, until sold out.

Each purchaser may buy up to two tickets and must provide proof of residency in local postcodes between 2477 and 2490.

The special offer is made possible through a partnership with local real estate agency First National Byron. The agency’s CEO, Chris Hanley, founded the festival in 1997 and served as its chair for two decades.

“Sunday has always had a relaxed, chilled vibe and feels really special for locals,” Mr Hanley said.

This year’s festival, held at Bangalow Showground, will feature an impressive line-up of speakers including UK author Esther Freud, celebrated Australian writer Helen Garner, journalist and commentator Joe Aston, memoirist and inaugural Alone Australia winner Gina Chick, 2025 Stella Prize winner Michelle de Kretser and Indigenous author and advocate Thomas Mayo.

The full line-up — featuring more than 160 writers, thinkers and commentators — will be announced on Wednesday June 11.

Running from August 8 to 10, the festival also offers three-day passes and special passes for its kids’ program.

For more information and to buy tickets, visit byronwritersfestival.com, phone 6685 5115 or visit the Byron Writers Festival office at 2/58 Centennial Circuit, Byron Bay.