Big Names and Bold Voices: Byron Writers Festival Unveils First Guests

The beloved Byron Writers Festival is back this August with a literary lineup of high-profile guests that’s already turning heads. From 8–10 August, the Bangalow Showground will transform into a vibrant hub of stories, ideas and voices for the 2025 edition of the festival. And with the first round of authors now announced, it’s shaping up to be something truly special.

Artistic Director Jessica Alice summed it up best: “I’m delighted to share this first glimpse of what is going to be a blockbuster program. Some of the finest writers from Australia and around the world will join us in Byron Shire to discuss the latest in fiction, memoir, politics, poetry and more – and we can’t wait to share this with our community.”

Leading the list is UK literary figure Esther Freud, whose debut novel Hideous Kinky launched her into the spotlight. Named one of Granta’s Best Young British Novelists after her second book, Freud’s work includes The Sea House, Lucky Break, Mr Mac and Me, and I Couldn’t Love You More. Her latest title, My Sister and Other Lovers, is due out this July – making her appearance a timely treat for fans.

One of Australia’s most revered writers, Helen Garner, will be bringing her sharp insight and signature prose with The Season, an intimate and moving account of her grandson’s under-16s footy team. In true Garner style, the book reflects on “the grace and grit of team spirit and the passage from boyhood to manhood,” as she watches on from the sidelines.

From the world of commentary, Joe Aston promises to stir discussion with his book The Chairman’s Lounge. Known for his cutting analysis of business, finance and politics, Aston pulls back the curtain on how one of Australia’s most recognisable brands ended up facing reputational ruin.

Making her Byron Writers Festival debut is Gina Chick, whose memoir We Are the Stars chronicles an extraordinary life from an unconventional childhood to becoming the inaugural winner of Alone Australia. Described as “a magic carpet ride through the exquisite mystery of the human heart,” her story is one of resilience, wonder and survival.

Also joining the Byron Bay line-up is literary heavyweight Michelle de Kretser. Her latest work, Theory & Practice, is a unique blend of fiction, essay and memoir. Through themes of “desire and jealousy, truth and shame,” de Kretser plays with form and structure to expand our understanding of what novels can achieve.

Fans of atmospheric storytelling will welcome the return of Hannah Kent. Best known for Burial Rites and The Good People, Kent steps into non-fiction with her new memoir Almost Home, Almost Homesick – a heartfelt tribute to her muse, Iceland.

Voice to Parliament advocate and author Thomas Mayo will also be appearing. Known for his powerful works like Finding the Heart of the Nation, Dear Son, and Freedom Day, Mayo’s latest book Always Was, Always Will Be tackles the question on many minds: what comes next?

Celebrated Yuwaalaraay storyteller Nardi Simpson will present her second novel The Belburd, building on the success of her award-winning debut Song of the Crocodile. Her work blends storytelling, music and culture in ways that continue to captivate readers and audiences alike.

Rounding out this first wave of announcements is international bestseller Markus Zusak. With novels like The Messenger, Bridge of Clay and the worldwide phenomenon The Book Thief, Zusak has left a massive mark on the literary landscape. At this year’s festival, he’ll introduce audiences to Three Wild Dogs (and the truth) – his first work of non-fiction.

This early announcement teases just a fraction of what’s to come. The full program release will feature more than 100 writers, thinkers and commentators – will be revealed on 11 June. In the meantime, early bird tickets are already on sale, offering readers a chance to secure their spot at one of Australia’s most cherished literary gatherings.

Whether you're drawn to memoirs, political commentary, fiction or cultural storytelling, the 2025 Byron Writers Festival promises something for everyone – and the opening line-up has set the bar high.