12.30pm
Lunch with George Georgievski and Gabriel Gaté

Over an outstanding two-course lunch prepared from his latest cookbook, George Georgievski, aka the Lunchbox Dad, shares with host and legendary chef Gabriel Gaté how he cooks easy, stylish and affordable weeknight meals, and gives them a makeover to create fresh meals for the following day. George will share his secrets for creating stylish, flavour-packed fare that is easy enough for busy weeknights, while championing smart cooking and zero food waste along the way. With Gabriel in the interviewer seat, George will elaborate on his journey from Geelong dad frustrated by his daughters’ food choices, to becoming a global hit and Jamie Oliver Food Ambassador with close to a million social media followers.

7.30pm (bar from 6.30pm)
An Evening with Bob Carr

The former Foreign Minister of Australia and Premier of NSW reflects on his political career, his lifelong love of literature, and his latest book, Bring Back Yesterday: on losing the love of my life and doing what it takes to survive, which deals with finding his footing again after the death of his wife. With Louise Adler.

11.15am
Three Decades of the Cook’s Companion

Australian restaurateur, writer and food icon Stephanie Alexander takes us inside the remarkable legacy of The Cook’s Companion—the beloved kitchen bible that has shaped generations of Australian home cooks. Thirty years, and 550,000 copies, after the book’s first publication, Stephanie reflects on its enduring influence and cultural impact and its place in Australia’s culinary history.  With Lisa Wilkinson.

9.30am – 1.00pm
WORKSHOP: Writing Memoir with Lorin Clarke
What makes a memoir unforgettable? Join broadcaster, best-selling memoirist, podcast creator and filmmaker Lorin Clarke for an inspiring, hands-on workshop exploring the art of turning lived experience into compelling stories. Discover how to find the moments that matter, shape your voice, unlock your memories and transform personal experience into powerful, engaging memoir.

2.45pm (bar from 2.00pm)
Well Well Well, it's Judith Lucy!
Comedy legend Judith Lucy takes a hilarious, irreverent look at our complicated obsession with wellness. After burnout left her feeling ‘like a used nappy’, Judith embarked on a quest to feel better. From wellness fads to questionable remedies, she shares the misadventures and hard-won insights behind her riotous new book Well, Well, Well, asking: in our relentless pursuit of wellbeing, are we actually making ourselves feel worse? With Elizabeth McCarthy.

2.45pm – 4.00pm
In a Class of His Own: It’s Andy Griffiths!
For our final 2026 festival event, get ready for a big, bookish burst of fun! Australian Children’s Laureate Andy Griffiths is passionate about connecting children to the power of books, reading and literacy. He’ll bring his unstoppable energy, wild imagination and signature humour to this lively, interactive session for kids, families and passionate readers of all ages. Expect hilarious stories, brilliant ideas, creative chaos and plenty of audience participation!