From one of the panel chairs, journalist Jane Sullivan.

According to the article, writer participation is a key element of what makes Byron Bay fun:

At the big festivals, writers tend to do their gigs, sign some books and disappear. But quite a few writers at this festival turn up in the audience at other sessions, asking questions and making comments from the floor, or just sitting quietly, doing a little professional development. They seem to like taking part as both performers and spectators.

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