“I’m so grateful to the Words on the Waves team for the opportunity to launch my book as part of this year’s festival. The event was beautifully run by the team and library staff, and I appreciated the social media exposure. It was a night I’ll never forget. Thank you.” – Lara Charles, author of Joy, Regardless
In 2022 Words on the Waves debuted its Local Author Book Launch program. The program has been designed to shine a light on Central Coast 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 2025, the Central Coast community has wholeheartedly embraced the program.
We are now pleased to open up applications to take part in our 2026 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 2026, we want to hear from you! (Publishers are also welcome to apply on behalf of their Central Coast authors.)
Dr John Maynard in conversation with photographer Juno Gemes at the launch of her landmark book, Until Justice Comes at Words on the Waves 2025
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
APPLY NOW
Please note: There is no fee to submit a Book Launch Expression of Interest. However, if successful, to have your Book Launch included in the Words on the Waves Writers Festival Book Launch program, the fee is $300 including GST. 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 EXTENDED UNTIL 25 NOVEMBER 2025
“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
Outback Jess launching her Spotto Books at Family Fun Day 2025
Words on the Waves 2026 will take place May 27 – May 31, on the scenic Central Coast. Local launches take place across the week of the festival and during the week following (May 25 – June 6) The program will be revealed in April 2026. Sign up to the mailing list here.
