Word for Word is Australia’s only non-fiction writing festival. It’s a unique annual literary event showcasing non-fiction writing in all its many facets and forms with world-renowned writers, dynamic panel discussions and “in conversation” sessions.

The theme for this year is Nyaal, a Wadawurrung word that means ‘open your eyes’. As Festival Director Rochelle Smith tells Backstory’s Mel Cranenburgh, this year’s event aims to showcase the many hidden and unheard histories of this country.