The Mayor’s Short Story Writing Awards were presented at the Somerville Mechanics Hall. Photos: Mornington Peninsula Shire
Literary spirit thrived at Somerville Mechanics Hall on August 31 as aspiring writers from across the Mornington Peninsula gathered to celebrate the Mayor’s Short Story Writing Awards. This annual competition, held in partnership with the Peninsula Writers’ Club, drew more than 200 entries, showcasing the rich tapestry of creative storytelling in the region.
With three categories spanning age groups from eight to 18 and beyond, the awards cast a spotlight on emerging talents and seasoned wordsmiths alike. This year’s panel of judges included accomplished authors Garry Disher, Else Fitzgerald, Monica Dux, Sam-Ellen Bound, and Coral Vass. Together they read their way through funny, suspenseful, heart-warming and moving creative fiction stories.
Peninsula Writers’ Club president Andrea Rowe.
The awards received invaluable support from sponsors including Antipodes Bookshop & Gallery, Rosebud Book Barn, Farrells Bookshop, and Petersen’s Bookstore. These generous sponsors provided vouchers for all winners and highly commended entrants, further fostering a love for literature in the community.
Peninsula Writers’ Club president and awards founder Andrea Rowe expressed her pride in the collaboration. “I am so proud of the partnership initiative between Peninsula Writers’ Club and Mornington Peninsula Shire Arts and Culture,” Ms Rowe said. “These awards encourage and recognise writers of all abilities while celebrating community talent and showcasing local stories and voices. Opportunities like this matter for our storytellers, and I’ve been thrilled to advocate for this for our community. Some of Australia’s best writers have started out writing short stories and entering awards.”
Mayor Steve Holland shared his gratitude for the continued enthusiasm surrounding the awards. “Council is proud to showcase and acknowledge Peninsula storytellers,” he said. “Now in its third year, the award is more popular than ever. I’d also like to personally thank the prize sponsors and the judges. We are so grateful for your support and time.”
The winners were:
18+ years: Jodie Kewley, All There Is; highly commended: Sean Kelly, The Good Boy
13-17 years: Camryn S, The Garden of Lost Stories; highly commended: Maya E-J, The Mysterious Disappearances of Wonga; Georgia H, Blooming
8-12 years: Macy A-W, Feather; highly commended: Aaron M, The Raccoon
Jodie received a bookshop voucher and a two-week Police Point Artist Residency along with $1000 for her win. Camryn S and Macy A-W each won $500.
For those eager to read these captivating narratives, the winning stories are available on the Mornington Peninsula Shire’s website at mornpen.vic.gov.au/writingawards
Mornington Peninsula Shire Mayor Steve Holland.
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