Published on Friday, 24 April 2026 at 11:00:36 AM
Celebrating 21 years of storytelling, the Big Sky Readers and Writers Festival will once again commence with the Short Story Prize.
Open to writers from the Midwest and Gascoyne, the Big Sky Short Story Prize encourages aspiring authors to submit original, unpublished work that reflects both their imagination and literary talents.
City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Jerry Clune said the Short Story Prize continues to resonate with the community by bringing stories from locals to light.
“Big Sky Readers and Writers Festival is one of our most beloved cultural events and the Short Story Prize is integral to its ongoing success,” he said.
“We have so much creative talent in our community and it is fantastic to provide an opportunity for budding wordsmiths to share their stories and maybe even launch a career in writing.
“I encourage anyone who has ever thought about writing a short story to give it a go and be part of this wonderful festival that has been telling local stories for more than two decades.”
In 2025, the prize was awarded to Serena Moss, with Carrie Puzzar named runner‑up. Highly Commended awards were presented to Annie Chandler, Adrian Doyle, Courtney Evans and Lorraine Lambert.
These stories are available to read or listen to through the Geraldton Regional Library website.
Entries for the Big Sky Short Story Prize are open until Friday 10 July 2026.
Winners of the prize will be announced at the Big Sky Festival Opening Night on Friday 23 October 2026.
First prize is $500, with a $200 runner‑up prize. Both recipients will also receive VIP access to Big Sky Festival events.
Entry is free and open to people aged 18 years and over, with all genres welcome.
The Big Sky Readers and Writers Festival 2026 will be held from Friday 23 to Sunday 25 October 2026 with this year’s theme “Future Forward”.
The full program and special guest line‑up will be announced in August.
For full terms and conditions as well as details on how to enter, visit the Library’s website, email library@cgg.wa.gov.au or phone (08) 9956 6659.
This event aligns with the Connected theme of the City’s Strategic Community Plan and reflects the organisation’s commitment to programs and events that build social connections.
Photo Caption: Big Sky Readers and Writers Festival Short Story Prize 2026 poster
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