As it enters its second half-decade, Warrnambool Storytelling Festival (WSF) is ready for a twist on the narrative. With a fresh new format and a style-up to match, WSF 2026 will deliver a rich mix of programming carefully curated to amplify a variety of voices within our regional community, and bring world-class storytellers to our city.

THE PROLOGUE: ‘Plot Twist’ cocktails, lots of banter, performances by Harpistry and Joey Chatfield-Berg and some surprise entertainment.
GET LIT: Literary Day featuring Hannah Kent, Santilla Chingaipe, Chris Flynn and Samantha Byres in conversation with local personalities.
STORY SONGS: The music and the stories behind it from five original acts which have all been influenced by the ocean.
WRITES OF PASSAGE: Milkshakes, chats and casual workshopping with YA author Keshe Chow, for participants aged 13-21.
GATHER TOGETHER: Stories and creativity inspired by community gardens, served with local mulled wine, veg soup and crusty bread.
TELLING TIME: A look back at the history of the Warrnambool Premier Speedway, with stories passed down and shared from behind the scenes.
ARTIST’S PORTRAIT: Kaz Clarke, the artist behind Selkie Knots, is in conversation about her eco-art before leading a workshop turning marine debris into something much more fun.
LIFE LINES: A panel of people with extraordinary stories share their experiences of being Queer in an event to inspire tears, laughter and kinship.
STORY KIDS: Acclaimed authors Vikki Conley and Jess McGeachin join us for stories, art, and play, with dedicated story and illustration workshops.
WRITE ON: An expert panel shares a range of different experiences with short-form non-fiction storytelling, and the different ways it can make an impact.
THE EPILOGUE: A fun Sunday session with artist Harley Manifold, who will lead a sketch and sip workshop – with some very good sports acting as models.