Have you got the knack for a rhyme or a rap?
Creatives, wordsmiths and novices are encouraged to come up with some poetic prose and recite it at the Australian Poetry Slam '26: Blacktown Heat.
Blacktown City Libraries' Mount Druitt Hub will host the heat on Thursday 20 August at 6.30 pm as part of the search for the Australian Poetry Slam-bassador.
Entrants just need an original, two minute poem they can perform on the microphone to an audience.
Blacktown City Mayor Brad Bunting encouraged people of all ages and abilities to try their luck.
"Our community has some incredibly gifted storytellers who have inspiring stories of overcoming adversity, culture and family," he said.
"I urge anyone with an idea to step up, share your story and join in the fun."
Two participants from the heat will be chosen to represent Blacktown at the Sydney final.
The top performers from the Sydney final will progress to the national final at the Sydney Opera House on 25 October.
The winner will become the Australian Poetry Slam-bassador and receive an international writers' festival tour worth around $20,000.
Whether you are a first-time performer or seasoned poet, this is your chance to take the stage, perform your poetry live and connect with a community that celebrates bold, original writing.
Australian Poetry Slam '26: Blacktown Heat
Where: The Mount Druitt Hub, 9 Ayres Grove, Mount Druitt
When: Thursday 20 August
Registration: 6 pm
Slam starts: 6.30 pm
Performers register:
btnpoetryslam2026artist.eventbrite.com.au
Audience tickets:
btnpoetryslam2026.eventbrite.com.au
Ages 17 years and older
