2026 Festival

First Release Events

The Political Lunch

Thursday April 23
The Baths, Sorrento
12pm / 120 mins
$110

Our Festival Lunch at The Baths, hosted by Barrie Cassidy, will present three respected political journalists, in discussion over a wonderful two-course meal and drink on arrival.

In Conversation: John Boyne

Friday April 24
Sorrento Community Centre
1.30pm / 50 mins
$35

Award-winning Irish writer John Boyne will discuss his work, his life, and his new Elements series with journalist Caroline Wilson.

Drinks with the Prize Winners

Friday April 24
The Ballroom, The Continental
4.30pm / 60 mins
$35

Join us for a drink as we welcome The Prize Winners and hear what it’s like to have your writing work acknowledged by the literary and journalism communities. 

Words & Music: The Beach House

Saturday April 25
Portsea Surf Life Saving Club
5.30pm / 180 mins
$90

Performer, host, writer and radio personality Brin Nankervis kicks off our Words & Music night with his love letter to the Aussie beach house and 40 years of family summers.

Followed by Rebecca Barnard and band as we revisit the sounds of 1970s and 80s Summer.

The Mushroom Tapes

Sunday April 26
Sorrento Community Centre
10.30am / 50 mins
$35

Helen Garner, Chloe Hooper and Sarah Krasnostein discuss the tragic family lunch that captured a world’s attention.