Media releases

Storytellers from across Gippsland and regional Victoria are invited to participate in the inaugural Regional Writers Rise Festival to give voice to a diverse range of stories.

Spearheaded by Federation University Australia students, the festival will feature the ‘Rise Up’ short story competition which aims to break down barriers to writing and publishing for regional communities.

Organisers are encouraging people of all backgrounds and abilities to enter, including First Nations people, people with a disability and those facing geographic isolation.

The competition seeks to amplify voices that challenge the norm, offering fresh perspectives and enriching the literary world with their untold stories.

It is part of the Regional Writers Rise Festival held on 22-23 June which will feature visiting authors, writing and researching workshops, and readings from local authors.

The short story of 1000 words or under can be fiction or autobiographical fiction and should explore the theme of ‘new beginnings’.

First prize is $500 and a 12-month subscription to quarterly Gippsland newspaper, Gippslandia.

Submissions can be made until 19 May by visiting https://regionalwritersrise.com

Regional Writers Rise is a collaboration between Federation University, Latrobe Health Assembly, Gippslandia and Latrobe City Council. For more information, visit https://regionalwritersrise.com.

Quotes attributable to Federation University’s Acting Executive Dean for the Institute of Education, Arts and Community, Professor Jenene Burke

“As a regional university we know our communities are a rich source of diverse experiences from our small cities to the most remote parts of Victoria.”

“We hope this festival brings a voice to those stories, shining a light on incredible talent that we otherwise might not get to see.”

Quotes attributable to festival coordinator and Federation University writing lecturer, Dr Threasa Meads

“We welcome writers from all walks of life to explore and share their interpretations of ‘new beginnings’ through stories.”

“We celebrate every story that adds to our community’s vibrant diversity and encourage writers to weave their voice into the new chapter of our region.”