After receiving more than double the submissions of 2024, we crowned the 2025 Mayor's Short Story Writing Awards on Friday 12 September.
With over 100 people in attendance, award-winning comedian, writer and musician Sammy J hosted the awards, bringing his trademark wit and warmth to the celebration. From three categories, three winners and four high commendations were awarded.
We congratulate the following writers:
8 – 12 Years
- Winner Raya P, 'What's left behind'
- Highly Commended: Maya L, 'A Person Unknown'
- Highly Commended: Miles G, 'Fallen Gums'
13 – 17 Years
- Winner: Mieka C, 'The Things We Carry'
- Highly Commended: Renee K, 'Boiled Eggs'
18+ Years
- Winner: Sascha Elk, 'Nest'
- Highly Commended: Mattias Mazza, 'A Grave in the Mountains'
Each winner in the youth categories received a $500 prize (funded by the Shire), book vouchers and their story published in the October edition of MP Magazine. The 18+ category winner also received a two-week Police Point Artist Residency (funded by the Shire), $1000 prize money, an excerpt of their story published in MP Magazine and bookstore vouchers.
This marks the fifth year of the Mayor's Short Story Writing Awards. This year the judging panel comprised notable writers Barry Reynolds, Else Fitzgerald, Monica Dux, Sam-Ellen Bound and Coral Vass. Our Shortlist Committee Partner was Western Ports Writes Literary Festival.
To learn more about the 2025 winners and to read their short stories, please visit our website: mornpen.vic.gov.au/writingawards.
Award Sponsors:
Bookstore vouchers have been generously donated by local businesses Antipodes Gallery & Bookshop, Farrell's Bookshop, Petersen's Bookstore, and Rosebud Book Barn.
Quote attributable to Mayor Councillor Anthony Marsh:
"Congratulations to all winners and highly commended writers! I was blown away by the talent from individuals as young as eight years old. These awards aim to encourage and support Mornington Peninsula writers of all abilities, celebrate our diverse talent, and showcase local stories and voices. "Thank you to everyone who entered. We received a record number of submissions - more than doubling the total last year!"
