The Central Coast's first and only Writers' Festival exists because we believe stories matter. As a not-for-profit, we are partially funded by a mix of government grants, local business sponsorship and donations. Each year, our festival runs on the steampower of an amazing, dedicated committee and volunteers who go above and beyond to deliver an experience that sits proudly alongside larger, urban writers' festivals.

We have dreams of allowing more children access to the Ripples School Program. We'd love to bring voices from further afield to speak on the Coast. And we want to be able to keep offering the Festival Marquee as our hallmark venue that has already hosted the likes of Bob Brown, Hugh McKay, Kate Grenville and more.

Donations from our community go directly towards helping us reach our goals, and are what will set us apart in 2027 as a mainstay on the local, cultural calendar. We are setting a modest target, and hope that you will join us in supporting this cause so that we may continue to grow. Every contribution - large or small - helps us bring high-profile authors to the Coast, keeps events low-cost and accessible, creates inspiring experiences for young poeople, and helps us deliver this week-long event full of connection and important conversations. 

If you are not in a position to donate this year, please pass this message along to someone who might! Or if you have a great idea for partnerships, please get in touch with Rebecca Keane at partners@wordsonthewaves.com.au 

All donations over $2 are tax deductible, and the cutoff for the financial year is coming up soon (June 30).