News & Updates
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The Central Coast’s first and only writers’ festival charts huge growth in sixth year
In only six years Words on the Waves Writers Festival has helped establish the scenic Central Coast as an important destination in the Australian literary calendar. In 2026 it charted huge growth, with the addition of a third venue for its Day and Weekend Pass holders, as well as numerous new [...]
Take our 2026 Survey & go in the running to win $300 voucher!
Share your feedback with us on the 2026 event, and go in the running to win a $300 voucher at our festival bookseller, BOOKFACE (locations here). THIS SURVEY HAS NOW CLOSED – THANK YOU FOR YOUR FEEDBACK. The winning entry will be notified shortly. ABOUT WORDS ON THE WAVES FESTIVAL Words on the [...]
Seniors Festival 2026 with James O’Loghlin and Sophie Green
On March 20, Words on the Waves’ Central Coast Reads and Brentwood Village partnered For NSW Seniors Festival, bringing two wonderful authors to speak about their work set on our beautiful Coast. James O’Loghlin and Sophie Green spoke with our moderator Benny Agius about writing, [...]
Interview with our 2026 Poster Artist
The 2026 Words on the Waves featured poster artwork is ‘Girl Sitting’ by Kirsty Nathwani. Read more about our theme and the artwork here. Below, we ask this Terrigal local a few questions. What drew you to painting? I’ve loved painting for as long as I can remember. It’s always been [...]
Introducing Words on the Waves 2026 Poster Art & Theme
As it approaches its sixth year, not-for-profit writers’ festival Words on the Waves, is pleased to unveil the 2026 theme and featured poster artwork. The festival will take place May 27 – June 1, 2026, at locations across the Central Coast, NSW. 2026 Festival Theme Take the Time This Words on [...]
Top titles in 2025
Welcome to the annual Words on the Waves round-up of our favourite reads from the past year! You’ll see we like to dip our hands into many different reading jars, from romantasy to sci-fi, memoir to poetry. As always, you might spy some festival guests past (and future!) in there… [...]
We’re hiring: Production Contractor!
An annual festival with special events taking place throughout the year, Words on the Waves was founded in 2021 and is the Central Coast’s first and only writers’ festival. In 2026, it will celebrate its sixth year from May 27 – May 31. In order to assist with the successful [...]
We’re hiring: Marketing & Media Manager!
An annual festival with special events taking place throughout the year, Words on the Waves was founded in 2021 and is the Central Coast’s first and only writers’ festival. In 2026, it will celebrate its sixth year from May 27 – May 31. In order to assist with the successful [...]
Words on the Waves Committee Call-out
Words on the Waves is powered by people who love big ideas, deep conversations and truly great events. Behind every inspiring session, every signed book, and every buzzing festival week is a team of passionate volunteers and a small committee working year-round to keep the magic alive. We’re [...]
Local Book Launch Applications Now Open for 2026
“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 [...]
Support our Festival
As a not-for-profit organisation run with a small team of volunteers, contributions of any size go a long way in enriching the creative culture of our community. The Committee includes local Peninsula residents passionate about bringing the arts to the Coast. We are seeking support from the community to help us create a wonderful and inclusive festival.


