General News
5 June, 2026
Festival marks another success
Attendees came from near and far to enjoy the recent Words in Winter festival.
Maryborough’s recent Words in Winter was a success, according to organisers, with “overwhelming” support from the community.
The annual festival centres ideas and conversation across a weekend of panels.
Words in Winter coordinator Patty Brown said they were very pleased with last weekend’s result.
Attendees came from near and far with 51 percent from the shire, ten percent from metropolitan Melbourne, 33 percent from regional Victoria, and six percent from NSW.
“So far we’ve had excellent feedback from everyone, which is just so gratifying, from audience members as well as the speakers,” she said.
A highlight for Ms Brown was the “very important” Yoorrook Justice Commission panel which reflected on truth-telling and the experiences of First Peoples.
“I just feel very passionate about all things to do with First Peoples,” she said.
“That session attracted a substantial audience but also people booked in early.”
Ms Brown joined everyone at Words in Winter to thank their volunteers and the broader community.
“A huge thank you from [coordinator] Janice [Simpson] and I as well as the rest of the committee ... to all those wonderful and loyal volunteers,” she said.
“A big thank you to the community for coming to the festival and supporting us — amazing, overwhelming, wonderful.”