Kay & Burton is proud to be a founding partner of the Sorrento Writers Festival, supporting its mission to promote literacy and expand library access across the Mornington Peninsula.
Held from April 24–27, the 2025 Festival was its biggest and most ambitious to date. Over four and a half days, more than 220 speakers participated in 169 events spanning ten venues across Sorrento. From Pulitzer Prize winners to Walkley Award-winning journalists, historians, chefs, artists, scientists, musicians, politicians, and novelists—this year’s festival was a vibrant celebration of storytelling and ideas.
With more than 22,000 tickets sold and an estimated 7000 to 8000 visitors in town, the festival generated a significant economic and social impact, enlivening local businesses and fostering meaningful community engagement.
Kay & Burton Portsea Director Liz Jensen praised the event’s growing influence.
“In just three years, the festival has become one of Australia’s largest writers’ festivals. A beacon for book lovers and thinkers—a place where stories are shared, ideas exchanged, and connections made,” she said.
“It wasn’t until I attended my first festival that I realised the immense community benefit it brings. The Sorrento Writers Festival has been wholeheartedly embraced by the region and is now a cornerstone of the Peninsula’s cultural calendar.”
Kay & Burton is deeply connected to the Mornington Peninsula and committed to initiatives that enrich our local communities. The Sorrento Writers Festival does just that—sparking important conversations, supporting creative voices, and offering a platform for learning, dialogue and discovery.
For more information, please visit sorrentowritersfestival.com.au