Held annually for the past 13 years, the competition invites entries from local kindergarten students through to grade 12. This year's theme is “rise”, according to Mayor of Northern Beaches Michael Regan who added:
“It’s time for young writers to once again rise and shine and show us what they’ve got. More than 500 stories were submitted in last year’s competition, and we suspect this year will be just as competitive.”
He said there were many young, talented writers who lived in the area, and he was continually impressed by their skill and creativity.
Written submissions can be on any theme or topic but there must be a derivation of `rise' included in the entry. Judging will be undertaken in age groups and be based on language, plot, originality and characterisation, with four finalists selected from each category.
Schools often carry out flyer printing campaigns in an effort to encourage as many entries as possible from their students.
On August 10, an evening presentation event will be held where the runner-up, two prizes for highly commended and the overall winner will be announced. In addition, an eBook featuring the stories of finalists will be published and become part of the library collection. All entries must be submitted by May 31.