If you have a budding writer at home or a teen with a passion for storytelling, poetry or creative expression, this is an opportunity not to be missed. The Woollahra Young Writers’ Award 2026 is now open, inviting young people across the Eastern Suburbs to share their voice and showcase their talent.
This much-loved local award celebrates the creativity, imagination and individuality of secondary school students aged 12 to 18 who live or study in Woollahra or surrounding areas. Whether they love crafting short stories or expressing themselves through poetry, this is a fantastic platform for young writers to be recognised and encouraged.
Who Can Enter?
The competition is open to students in:
- Years 7–9 (Junior category)
- Years 10–12 (Senior category)
Award Categories
There are four exciting categories to choose from:
- Short Story – Junior (Years 7–9): up to 1,500 words
- Short Story – Senior (Years 10–12): up to 1,500 words
- Poetry – Junior (Years 7–9): up to 30 lines
- Poetry – Senior (Years 10–12): up to 30 lines
This variety allows young writers to explore different styles and find the format that best suits their creativity.
Prizes to Inspire
Each category winner will receive:
- $300 cash prize
- A one-hour mentoring session with an experienced judge
Shortlisted entrants won’t miss out either, receiving a curated literary prize pack to continue nurturing their love of writing.
Key Dates to Remember
- Entries Open: Monday 20 April 2026
- Entries Close: Sunday 19 July 2026
- Winners Announced: Saturday 19 September 2026
Why Enter?
The Woollahra Young Writers’ Award is more than just a competition—it’s a chance for young people to build confidence, develop their writing skills and gain valuable recognition. For many, it’s a stepping stone into further creative opportunities and a great addition to school portfolios.
Encouraging kids and teens to write helps strengthen communication skills, boosts creativity and gives them a powerful outlet for self-expression. Whether your child is already an avid writer or just starting out, this award is a wonderful way to inspire them.
How to Get Involved
If your child loves writing, now is the perfect time to start brainstorming ideas, drafting stories or refining poems. Entries are now officially open, so don’t miss the chance to be part of this fantastic local initiative.
Support the next generation of storytellers and help their voices be heard—because every great writer starts somewhere.
More information: www.woollahra.nsw.gov.au
Judges
Samera Kamaleddine, Short Story
Samera Kamaleddine has considered herself a writer since she got her first creative writing certificate in Kindergarten. She went on to become a journalist, writing about everything from friendship to body confidence for young women’s magazines. Now, she’s the author of Half My Luck, The Sideways Orbit of Evie Hart and the Clueless series.
Dakota Feirer, Poetry
Dakota Feirer is a Bundjalung and Gumbaynggirr storyteller whose work has appeared in Kill Your Darlings, Overland, Australian Poetry and more. His collection Arsenic Flower engages with Indigenous resurgence, manhood, Country and cultural repair.
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