With a strong background in education, bookselling, writing and bespoke publishing, Ben has been instrumental in establishing the Gippsland Writers Festival over the past three years. He has written two novels and edited two anthologies, as well as presented at Oz Comic Con, The Hero Round Table and the Kang-o-meerteek Project. He was awarded The Roderick Centre Fellowship for Remote and Regional Writers as part of the 2026 Varuna Residential Fellowships. (www.benlangdon.net)

With years of experience in family business, including the iconic Jimmy Possum company and Family Business Australia, Emily brings a flair for community connection. President of two local community groups, she has grown the festival beyond the Regent Theatre to encompass the whole of Yarram, including a range of events which support the festival of stories.

Passionate about education and literature, Martina is the Head of English at a secondary college in Gippsland, and heads up the festival’s Youth Programs including author workshops and panels within the local secondary college, primary schools and early childhood sectors.