General News
22 May, 2026
Words in Winter back with big program
Writers, thinkers, performers, storytellers and curious minds will gather in Maryborough later this month for an expanded and ambitious weekend of ideas, conversation and creativity.
Now in its strongest form yet, the 2026 Words in Winter Central Goldfields festival features an engaging mix of panel discussions, writing workshops, performances, food, humour and thought-provoking discussion designed to bring people together and spark meaningful conversation.
According to festival organisers, this year’s program has been carefully curated to create a warm, intelligent and welcoming regional festival experience that connects local audiences with nationally recognised guests and important contemporary issues.
“Words in Winter Central Goldfields is about much more than books,” festival president Janice Simpson said.
“It’s about people coming together to share ideas, challenge assump-tions, laugh, reflect and connect.
“We’ve created a festival that is intelligent but accessible — a weekend where audiences can hear extraordinary speakers, enjoy great food and coffee, and feel part of something genuinely uplifting and community-driven.”
The festival program includes:
• Major panel discussions exploring social, cultural and regional issues
• Conversations with writers, journalists and commentators
• Specialised writing workshops for aspiring and emerging writers
• Community storytelling and reflective sessions
• A Saturday dinner event at the historic Maryborough Railway Station precinct
• Opportunities for visitors to experience the heritage and hospitality of the Central Goldfields region.
A standout feature of this year’s festival is its emphasis on con-versation and participation, with audiences encouraged not simply to attend sessions, but to engage deeply with ideas and with each other.
The festival is expected to attract visitors from across Victoria and interstate, delivering economic and tourism benefits to the region while showcasing Maryborough as a vibrant cultural destination.
Dr Simpson said regional com-munities deserved access to high-quality cultural events that fostered discussion, creativity and social connection.
“Regional festivals matter because they help communities feel alive, confident and connected,” she said.
“People are hungry for authentic experiences and genuine con-versations. That’s exactly what this festival offers.”
The 2026 program includes both free and ticketed events, with bookings strongly encouraged due to strong interest in several sessions and the writing workshop.
Bookings and the full program can be found at Words in Winter Central Goldfields website, https://wiwcg.com.au