Gordon Reid (Robertson, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise to congratulate Words on the Waves Writers Festival on its third year of operating on the New South Wales Central Coast. This year's line-up enticed avid readers and literature lovers to a range of programs, including author panels, book launches, a family fun day and much more. This year's festival theme was 'the mind swims', and it had people thinking about the human urge to move and explore. People also reflected on how change is the only constant in life. The writers festival not only enriches the Central Coast's cultural landscape but also provides a significant boost for local small businesses. Visitors to the festival then go on to stay in local accommodation and support the local hospitality industry and other small businesses.

I would like to thank Words on the Waves Writers Festival co-founders Benny Agius and Jacqui Barton and the following members who ensured this year's festival was such a spectacular success: program director Angela Bennetts, and founding committee members Mandi McIntosh, Margaret Crane, Fiona Lloyd, Raelene Chatten, Marie Davies, Helen Hayden, Clare Keogh, Kirsten Paterson, Kaye Wright and Greg Coleman. I'd also like to thank the board members: Mary Jane House, Sue Beveridge, Cathy Williamson and Lyndal Keevers. Thank you, and I look forward to next year's festival, which I know will be just as full of excitement and enrichment of our cultural landscape as this year's festival was.