Big Book Fair
Lifeline’s Big Book Fair is the major fundraising event for Lifeline’s 24-hours crisis support service in the Illawarra and South Coast.
23 – 26 October 2025
Our Event
Lifeline’s Big Book Fair is back, with over 90,000 pre-loved books on sale over three days. Our next event is being held on
23 – 26 October 2025 at the Illawarra Sports Stadium, Berkeley.
Each event is a chance to spread our love of reading far and wide, save books from landfill and raise vital funds for Lifeline. What’s more, your second-hand book purchases help to deliver essential crisis support and suicide prevention services within the Illawarra, Shoalhaven and South Coast.
When
Thursday 23 October 5pm – 9pm
Friday 24 October 9:00am – 5:00pm
Saturday 25 October 9:00am – 5:00pm
Sunday 26 October 9:00am – 4:00pm
Sign up here and join our monthly Booklovers newsletter
Entry
Thu: $10 First Look Special Entry
Fri – Sun: Gold Coin Entry
Where
Illawarra Sports Stadium, Berkeley
Resources
Collectable List March 2025
Books for Sale
Attendees
Amount Raised in 2024
Answers to Your Questions
Where can i donate books for Book Fair?
Books can be donated to our Book Sorting Warehouse at 19 Auburn Street, Wollongong. Please call prior to donating to ensure we can accept your donation 0436 859 409.
Please note this is closed for 2 weeks for Book Fair week.
Can I bring books to donate at Book Fair?
Yes they can be dropped off in the carpark just past the front gate to the stadium.
My book has water damage, can I still donate it?
No sorry, if books are damaged, soiled or mouldy we are unable to accept them due to the high cost in recycling them.
Do you have eftpos at Book Fair?
Yes, we accept both cash and eftpos.
Is there an entry fee?
On the Thursday, we ask for a $10 donation as this will give you exclusive first access. We have a gold coin donation as you enter for all other days. We also have a $2 Tap-and-Go machine.
Do you need volunteers for the event?
If you would like to volunteer for our next event please fill out the application form below.
Volunteer at Big Book Fair
We’re looking for enthusiastic book lovers to volunteer at the Big Book Fair! There are a range of different roles available to suit your interests from event set-up/pack down, customer service, cash register operators/assistants, tally tables and more.
Event Set Up/Pack Down
Great for Corporates
Customer Service
Manage a book section, restock tables
Tally Tables
Good with numbers? Help tally books
