Something for Everyone

THE FRINGE 2026

Local Author Applications: 11-30 April

BIGGER, LOUDER, STILL FREE!

The BRWF Fringe Festival returns to Maam Gaduying Park for its third and most ambitious year yet! Located directly opposite the Memorial Hall, the Fringe is your home for free conversation and performance.

From local legends to visiting heavyweights, the program is a kaleidoscope of performance and deep-dive chats. The crown jewel? A worldwide debut live table-reading of Malcolm McFarlane’s The Water Cart, featuring acting icon Jack Thompson and friends.

You’ll also find the return of our Open Mic Poetry, live music performances, behind-the-scenes specials, and so much more.

Nestled amongst food vendors, coffee carts, and Bello’s own local library, your festival visit isn’t complete without experiencing what The Fringe has to offer.

Plus, in another first, we’re expanding the Fringe footprint right across town, with a special opening night Local Author Celebration at Alternatives Bookshop.

Get ready to be wowed, we have a huge BRWF long-weekend in store for you.

For further information, contact Kye Ruigrok: 

The Fringe events are proudly supported by Bellingen Shire Council.

LOCAL AUTHORS

We are showcasing some of our local authors as part of our Fringe events at the Bellingen Readers and Writers Festival.   If you would like to come and present your book at our Fringe Events, please fill out the following Application Form. 

If you meet the following criteria, we would love to hear from you.

Criteria:

  • Your primary residence must be in the Coffs Harbour, Bellingen Shire or Nambucca LGAs.
  • Your book was published after 1st January 2024.
  • If you are under 18 years old, you will be required to supply a parental consent document

Author applications close: midnight 30 April 2026.

1. YOUR DETAILS

If required, are you happy to help with setting up/packing away?

Tell us a little about yourself:

2. ABOUT YOUR BOOK

How is your book published?

Tell us a little about your book:

3. Book sales

Bookselling facilities are NOT being provided by the Fringe. You are welcome to bring some books for sale. The book sales may only take place at the end of your allotted session. A small table will be provided for this purpose.

All monies related to book sales are the sole responsibility of the author – no card facilities are being provided by the Fringe.

I understand the BRWF conditions regarding books sales. *

4. Submit your details