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Sydney Writers’ Festival board welcomes Robert Watkins as chair as Kathy Shand departs after 12 years
The Sydney Writers’ Festival Board today announces Kathy Shand’s departure after an extraordinary 12 years—serving the last two as Chair, with Robert Watkins stepping into the role as Chair.
Board Chair Robert Watkins said, “Kathy has made a significant contribution to the Festival, helping to shape its direction and strengthen its position as one of Australia’s leading literary and cultural events during her time as Chair since 2023.”
“A passionate advocate for literature and the arts, Kathy’s leadership, generosity, and unwavering commitment to Sydney Writers’ Festival have been instrumental. Her dedication to championing writers and fostering meaningful engagement with audiences has left a lasting legacy. On behalf of the Board, I extend my deepest gratitude for her invaluable commitment,” he said.
Robert Watkins, a Board Director since 2023, now serves as Chair, working alongside the Board and leadership team to deliver a strong and engaging 2025 Festival.
“I look forward to working closely with the team to build on this strong foundation as we prepare to share an exciting and thought-provoking 2025 Festival with audiences. The Festival remains committed to openness and the inclusion of a plurality of views, to ensure that different voices can be heard,” Watkins said.
The 28th Sydney Writers’ Festival will take place from Monday 19 to Tuesday 27 May 2025, bringing together 220+ events featuring leading literary voices, including 40+ international award-winners, for a week of discussions, ideas, and storytelling. The Festival will unveil the 2025 program on 13 March.