Community News

Mountain Writers’ Festival 

Mountain Writers’ Festival returns to the Macedon Ranges in 2026, celebrating stories that deepen our relationship with place through our enduring theme ‘Nature. Place. Story.’ Through conversations, workshops, performances and immersive events, the festival brings together readers, writers, artists and thinkers for a weekend of stories shaped by nature, place and community.

The festival brings acclaimed Australian writers including Bob Brown, Debra Dank, Tony Birch, Maxine Beneba Clarke, Omar Musa, Jac Semmler, Victor Steffensen and more to be announced into conversation with local and regional voices.

Set at the foot of Geboor (Mount Macedon) on Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Country across three days Friday 13 - Sunday 15 November, Mountain Writers Festival offers a literary festival experience unlike any other.

🎟️ Early Bird passes on sale from 4-24 September

🎟️ Full price Weekend and Day Passes on sale from 25 September

Full program announced at our Program Launch: Sustenance, Thursday 24 September - RSVP here.

Supported by Creative Australia, Melbourne Airport, Macedon Ranges Shire Council and Community Bank Gisborne & District.

Melbourne Youth Orchestras 2027 Summer School 

Join over 800 young musicians at the University of Melbourne Southbank Campus from Monday 11 January to Saturday 16 January for the Melbourne Youth Orchestras 2027 Summer School.

​

This inspirational week features daily rehearsals across Symphony Orchestras, String Orchestras, Symphonic Bands, and Jazz Orchestras for all skill levels, alongside engaging workshops, surprise guests, and celebratory concerts.

Expand your technique, explore new repertoire, and make unforgettable musical discoveries in the heart of Melbourne's arts precinct.

As 2027 marks MYO's 60th anniversary, the week will also carry a special celebratory flair, with extra events throughout.​

Read more and apply here: https://myo.org.au/programs/summer-school/