Brimbank Writers & Readers Festival
12-17 March 2026
Over six days, the Brimbank Writers & Readers Festival (BWRF) brought the community together to celebrate stories, ideas, and creativity.
This year saw a significantly larger audience, with attendance doubling compared to previous festivals, reflecting growing interest in engaging with writers, artists, and their work.
With more than 30 events featuring over 50 writers and artists, the program offered conversations, workshops, and shared experiences that connected audiences with storytellers, thinkers, and fellow readers.
Thank you to our writers, artists, presenters, partners, and everyone who attended, whose enthusiasm and support helped make it success.
The festival may be over, but the conversation continues. Check What’s On for upcoming events and ways to stay connected with Brimbank Libraries.
Download Digital Brochure (pdf – 3.9Mb)
Download Digital Brochure (pdf – 3.9Mb)
Microfiction Competition 2026 Winners
Youth Winners
1st: Natalie Nguyen, The Past Can’t Be Killed
2nd: Grace O’Connor, Chin Up
3rd: Aaryan Duggal, Flight 666
Young Adult Winners
1st: Jessica Ellwood, Facing the Light
2nd: Avneet Kaur, Grey
3rd: Serena Hawkins, Stronger Like You
Adult Winners
1st: Lydia Katanie, Grandma Greta
2nd: D.P. Heasly, It’s what the Sunflowers Do
3rd: Susan Khadem, Moments
Listen Back
Truth, Lies and the Algorithm
Truth, Lies and the Algorithm was presented as a panel discussion at the Brimbank Writers & Readers Festival on 15 March 2026, and is now available to listen to through ABC Radio National’s Big Ideas podcast.
Bringing together expertise from journalism, psychology and technology, the discussion looks at how AI and algorithms are reshaping news, fueling misinformation, challenging journalism, and exploring ways to take back control of our information. Panelists include Ian Dunt, Dr Matthew Marques and Rita Arrigo, hosted by Luke Siddham Dundon.
Listen here, or find Big Ideas wherever you get your podcasts.
Festival Highlights
