Nationally recognised, the literary competition is once again expected to attract large volumes of entries from aspiring writers both locally and further afield. The aim of the competition is to celebrate and recognise the diversity and breadth of literary talent throughout the nation, as well as in the Sutherland Shire.
Mayor of Sutherland Shire Steve Simpson encouraged local residents to submit short stories and poems, saying:
“We have an extraordinary depth of literary talent within our community, and to recognise this, the 2021 Competition allows the independent judges to award additional ‘Shire Resident’s’ prizes of $500 and $250 in each of the three categories.”
Simpson said the competition provides a way for the council to help enhance and strengthen a passion for reading and literature, which is also reinforced by the shire's libraries and writing groups. Flyer printing campaigns have often assisted in attracting new entries into literary competitions such as this.
Sub-Committee Chair of the competition, Barry Collier, who was also a previous National Henry Lawson Literary Award winner, said the council's competition enjoyed an outstanding reputation and will provide an opportunity to showcase the talent of all involved, especially locals.
Entries for the 2021 Sutherland Shire Literary Competition, which is open to residents of Australia who are aged 18 and above, can be submitted between February 22 and April 19.