Bathurst Writers’ & Readers’ Festival Turns 10
Published on 16 April 2025
The Bathurst Writers’ & Readers’ Festival returns this May, proudly celebrating a decade of storytelling, big ideas, and unforgettable conversations.
Running from Wednesday 21 to Sunday 25 May, the much-loved Festival will feature five days of author talks, live-streamed sessions from the Sydney Writers’ Festival (SWF), and exciting local events at Bathurst Library and the Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre (BMEC).
Live streamed big-name authors include Helen Garner, Markus Zusak, The Moriarty Sisters, Anna Funder, and international favourites like Colm Tóibín, Ian Rankin and A.C. Grayling.
Local talent will also take centre stage, with in-person appearances by Cadance Bell, Hayley Rawsthorne and Leesa Ronald, joined by other regional writers and readers. Families and young readers can enjoy sessions with Jeff Kinney, creator of Diary of a Wimpy Kid, and fantasy favourite Lynette Noni, both part of the SWF live stream.
The much-loved Great Festival Read returns, bringing Bathurst readers together to enjoy the same book ahead of the Festival. This year’s pick is Purple Threads by Wiradjuri author Jeanine Leane — a heartfelt, humorous and powerful story about growing up with two unforgettable Aunties on a sheep farm near Gundagai. We’re honoured to welcome Jeanine Leane in conversation with women leaders in our community during the Festival. Copies of Purple Threads are available now at BooksPlus and Bathurst Library.
Other local event highlights include:
Bathurst Mayor, Cr Robert Taylor, praised the Festival's milestone achievement.
“The Bathurst Writers’ & Readers’ Festival is a true celebration of culture, creativity and community. Over the past ten years, it has brought first-rate literary experiences to Bathurst while championing our local authors and stories. It’s a much-loved event on our cultural calendar, and I encourage everyone to get involved this May,” he said.
Tickets and the full program are available online at bmec.com.au or by calling the BMEC Box Office on (02) 6333 6161. Printed programs can be picked up at Bathurst Library and at local sponsors Bake, Table and Tea and BooksPlus.
Join us in celebrating ten years of stories, ideas, and community at the 2025 Bathurst Writers’ & Readers’ Festival—a Festival made by and for readers, right here in the heart of Bathurst.
Media contact: Genevieve Green Media and Communications Officer