Headland Writers Festival
– a celebration of storytelling, literature, and ideas –
held on the breathtaking headland at Tathra.
Rooted in Yuin Country and held on Djirringanj land, this is a festival with a deep connection to place — one where words meet the sea and stories shape the future.
The festival brings together writers, poets and thinkers to spark conversations, challenge perspectives, and inspire audiences.
2026 Program Overview
Click on + icons below to explore the 2026 program sessions
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CREATIVE MINDS: Sustainable Wellbeing for Creative Work - 9:30 AM @ Tathra Uniting Church
Matt Stanton, Johanna Bell & Hannah Sommerville with Jade Timms - 9:30 AM @ Headland Theatre
Louise Milligan & Inessa Jackson with Eddie Williams - 11:00 AM @ Tathra Hall
Patricia Ellis, Kerry Boyenga & Waine Donovan with Alice Ansara - 11:00 AM @ Headland Theatre
Steve Toltz, Mary Colussi & Chloe Wilson with Toby Hemmings - 1:30 PM @ Tathra Hall
Sita Walker, Brendan James Murray & Ralph Jackman with Gabbie Stroud - 3:00 PM @ Headland Theatre
Danielle Clode with Jacinta Counihan - 4:30 PM @ Tathra Hall
Kate Legge & Romy Ash with Lisa Markham - 4:30 PM @ Headland Theatre
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Dr Jodie Stewart with Daniel Bingham - 9:30 AM @ Tathra Hall
Luke Patterson & Gary Lonesborough with Michell Scott - 9:30 AM @ Headland Theatre
Johanna Bell, Romy Ash & Bob Brown with Simon Lauder - 11:00 AM @ Tathra Hall
Toby Walsh, Anna Goldsworthy & Steve Toltz with Michael Black - 11:00 AM @ Headland Theatre
REWIRE: Mental Health and Wellbeing for Creative Work - 1:30 PM @ Tathra Uniting Church
Claire Thomas, Michael Winkler & Bob Carr with Isla Evans - 3:00 PM @ Tathra Hall
Tommi Parrish & Rachel Ang with Janice Falsone - 3:00 PM @ Headland Theatre
Latest news
Headland Writers Festival in photos . . .
2026 Miles Franklin winner Omar Musa performed at the 2025 opening night - Tathra Hotel - Photo by Marcus Ward Curran @marcuswardcurran
Humpback Whales put on a good show every year @ Tathra Wharf - Photos by Marcus Ward Curran @marcuswardcurran
Festival Creative Director Myoung Jae opens the 2025 festival - Photo by Marcus Ward Curran @marcuswardcurran
Tathra Hotel and the Headland Theatre - Photos by Marcus Ward Curran @marcuswardcurran
Pepper & Davies play at the Tathra Hotel - Photo by Marcus Ward Curran @marcuswardcurran
Opening night crowd at 2026 Festival. Tathra Hotel - Photo by Marcus Ward Curran @marcuswardcurran
Opening night at Tathra Hotel - Photo by Marcus Ward Curran @marcuswardcurran
Pop Up Candelo Books for all your literary needs - Photo by Marcus Ward Curran @marcuswardcurran
Panel Discussion at Uniting Church hall, Tathra - Photo by Marcus Ward Curran @marcuswardcurran
With your support, we can ensure that Headland Writers Festival remains an unforgettable and inclusive experience. Your generosity helps us offer free and accessible events, elevate regional and First Nations voices, and nurture bold, thought-provoking storytelling.