Word Play Microfiction Competition

Presented in partnership with the University of Queensland 

Calling young writers! BWF and UQ present the annual schools’ microfiction competition, open to Queensland-based schools students. The 2022 prompt is an illustration by Kathleen Jennings – you are invited to respond to the image in no more than 120 words, using any written format (verse/ prose). Shortlisted entrants will be invited to present a reading of their microfiction at the awards ceremony during the Festival. 

The prize is $1000 (high school category), $500 (primary school category) plus a book pack of authors featured at Word Play. The “highly commended” prize is the original artwork of Jennings’ image, awarded to one entry from either primary or high school at the discretion of the judging panel. 

The judging panel is:

• Steven Herrick, author and Word Play 2022 guest 
• Dr Richard Newsome, Novelist and Lecturer in the School of Communication and Arts, UQ 
• Jenny Stubbs, CBCA & Book Links QLD 
• Kristina Schulz, publisher and editor 

The panel will be co-ordinated by Ella Peile, BWF Program Manager (Youth).

Entries close Friday, April 22
Shortlist announced Friday, April 29
Winner announced Monday, May 2

All welcome for the announcement ceremony featuring readings of the shortlisted entries and prize winners, presented by guest judge, children’s and YA author, Steven Herrick.

Thursday 5 May, 4:00pm – 5:00pm, Queensland Terrace, State Library of Queensland

Click here to register for this free event.