Calling all writers.
The Stratford Shakespeare Festival Committee is excited to announce the annual Sheila Malady Short Story Competition is open for entries.
Now in its 11th year, the competition awards prizes in three separate categories, including a prize for the best story written by a Gippsland resident.
This year organisers are delighted to announce that shortlisted entries in the open section will be sent to our final judge, literary agent Anjanette Fennell from Key People Literary Management.
“This is an exciting opportunity for local authors to get their work in front of one of Australia’s most respected literary agents,” Committee member and local author, Lisa Ireland said.
The winner of the open section will be awarded a cash prize and a one-hour online coaching session with the director of Hawkeye Publishing, Carolyn Martinez.
Other prizes include book vouchers from Collins Booksellers, Sale, and a spectacular handcrafted wooden quill from local artist, Gavin Roberts.
Judges are eagerly awaiting entries and are excited to see how writers will interpret this year’s theme, The Dark Side.
Winners will be announced at the opening night of the festival, Thursday, May 1, 2025, at The Stratford Courthouse Theatre.
For information on how to enter please visit the Stratford Shakespeare website.