Sharpen your pencil and charge up your laptop! Entries for the prestigious 2024 Craig Silvey Award for Young Writers open on Friday 19 July.
Aspiring young writers are encouraged to start planning – or plotting – their entry, with innovation, creativity, and originality front of mind.
Entries are open to all Western Australian school students from years one to twelve, with multiple age categories and a special award for the overall standout story.
The City of Subiaco’s youth writing award is now in its 32nd year, with award-winning WA author Craig Silvey – whose works include
Honeybee, Jasper Jones, and
Runt – returning in 2024 for his second year as the award’s patron.
It’s set to be a busy year for Craig Silvey, as
Runt, which has been made into a feature film featuring an all-star Australian cast, will be released in late 2024.
Craig Silvey shared his first piece of writing when he was eight years old and finished third in a state-wide writing competition.
Regarding the 2024 award, Craig said, “I’m excited about the stories that come our way, about diverse voices, and about the new experiences and the wild imaginations of Western Australians everywhere.
“I’d encourage writers to tell a story that feels true, important, meritorious and exciting to you, develop your own voice, and develop your own story. We’re interested in reading something that feels unique, distinct, and above all, something that feels honest and true.”
Mayor David McMullen said he is consistently impressed with the quality of work from the award’s young entrants.
“I am so pleased that the City of Subiaco, through this prestigious youth writing award, can continue to foster creativity in young people both in the local community and across the state.
“The award offers a fantastic opportunity and platform for young writers, and it’s very rewarding to see their efforts and creativity recognised by a renowned WA author like Craig Silvey.”
There will be a series of writing workshops held at Subiaco Library in the lead-up to the award submission deadline.
Entries are open from Friday 19 July to Monday 12 August. To enter, visit https://www.subiaco.wa.gov.au/awards.