“Fabulous opportunity for local authors to spread the word about their books. Wonderful events bringing like-minded people together. I could not have organised a launch as good as the one I received. The publicity was fantastic. The organisation was flawless. Just brilliant.” – 2023 participant, Zoe Farrell
In 2022 we launched the Words on the Waves Book Launch program. The program has been designed to shine a light on local authors and bring people together over a shared love of books and reading. To ensure these events are inclusive and accessible, the launches are free to attend.
From three book launches in our first year, to seven in 2024, the Central Coast community has wholeheartedly embraced the program.
We are now pleased to open up applications to take part in our 2025 Book Launch Program. If you are based on the Central Coast, and have recently authored a book that you’d like to launch as part of Words on the Waves Writers Festival 2025, we want to hear from you! (Publishers are also welcome to apply on behalf of their Central Coast authors.)
Anna Downes being interviewed by Adrienne Ferreira at the launch of Red River Road at the 2024 Festival
Words on the Waves secures suitable launch venues for authors, produces ‘runsheets’ for the events, and publicises the books and launches through inclusion on social media, the printed festival program and on the festival website. Being associated with Words on the Waves also helps in adding extra credibility to the launch event.
We’ve put together an Information Sheet to answer all the questions you might have before applying, alternatively, feel free to contact our Book Launch Coordinator Mandi McIntosh on coordinator@wordsonthewaves.com.au if there’s something not answered in this document.
VIEW INFORMATION SHEET
Please note: There is no fee to submit a Book Launch EOI. However, if successful, to have your Book Launch included in the Words on the Waves Writers Festival Book Launch program, the fee is $250. All applicants will be considered upon submission by the programming team. There will be a standardised criteria used to assess every submission as book launch slots are limited.
APPLICATIONS NOW CLOSED
“The local launches are a great project to work on, as they are a wonderful way to give back to our community of readers and writers. Helping locals bring their books in to the community is rewarding and each one is a unique experience. I love getting to read over all the entries and experiencing new voices.” – Mandi McIntosh, Book Launch Coordinator
Beach Reads launch at Kincumber Library as part of 2024 Festival. Photo credit: Amber Jakeman
Words on the Waves 2025 will take place May 28 – June 1, on the scenic Central Coast. Local launches take place across the week of the festival and during the week following (May 28 – June 8) The program will be revealed in April 2025. Sign up to the mailing list here.
