Opportunity to have creative talents publically recognised

Time is running out for aspiring local writers to tell their tale in Wyong Shire Council Libraries’ annual Short Story Competition, which closes 5pm Friday 21 August.

The winner of each division will receive an iPad mini and shortlisted entries will be published in an anthology of works.

Council’s Section Manager Library Services, Ms Andrea Edwards, said the competition is a highlight on the libraries calendar of events and works to improve learning outcomes for the community.

“With more than half our population having left school before Year 11 we have an important role to play to encourage education and learning for all ages,” Ms Edwards said.

“This competition not only provides a fantastic platform for our creative community to be recognised, but also works to encourage reading and writing skills in our community.

“To provide assistance to hopeful authors, we held three workshops just over a month ago and also have some hints and tips published on our website.”

There are three categories this year; children (5-12 years), youth (13-18 years) and adult (19+ years) and stories can be up to 1500 words.

“The anticipation to read the entries and discover emerging local authors is really starting to build,” Ms Edwards added.

“With so much talent in our Shire, I’m really looking forward to reading some of the stories.

“You never know how good you are until you try, so I’d encourage all budding writers out there to give it a red hot go!”

The competition is open to current library members and residents of the Wyong Shire local government area, with the exception of Wyong Shire Council staff and their immediate families.

Membership is free to anyone who lives, works or studies in the Shire.

To become a member or download an entry form visit www.wyong.nsw.gov.au/library

For more information visit Wyong Shire Council