Words on the Waves

In 2024 we delivered a thoughtprovoking diverse program committed to place and community. We delivered literacy programs that support the next generation of readers and writers. The program recorded 1048 student attendances across 13 sessions, with both author/illustrator talks and handson workshops offered. Eleven (11) primary schools participated (three new in 2024), spanning the geographic breadth of the Central Coast. We launched a Short Story Competition with nearly 100 entries received. The fourth annual Words on the Waves was its biggest and most ambitious yet. Running from May 29 June 3, 2024, it welcomed 100 speakers across approximately 80+ free and ticketed sessions over six days, with events also running the week after the festival. In this time, Words on the Waves recorded approximately 5082 adult attendances (a 42% increase yearonyear) and 1088 student attendances. Events included author talks, writing workshops, poetry readings, a literary cruise, a conversation evening, and free book launches. A new main venue, The Dip, (see page 8 of our Annual Report) offering shortform author talks and the family fun day greatly expanded the festival s program and audience reach.