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Published on 17 September 2026
Mornington Peninsula's emerging and established writers have been recognised at the sixth annual Mayor's Short Story Writing Awards, with a record-breaking 305 entries showcasing the depth of local literary talent. The awards ceremony was held at Flinders Civic Hall on 16 September and hosted by comedian, writer and performer Sammy J. The Mayor's Short Story Writing Awards continue to nurture creativity, encourage storytelling and celebrate the diverse voices of writers across the Mornington Peninsula. This year's record number of entries highlights the growing strength of the region's literary community. Mayor Cr Stephem Batty congratulated all entrants, shortlisted writers and winners. "Each year, these awards reveal the incredible imagination, talent and creativity that exists throughout our community," Cr Batty said. "Congratulations to all our winners and shortlisted writers for sharing their unique voices and stories."
8-12 Years Category Florence Seith for Forgot-me-not Extract: "Iridescent droplets rained down from the sky, drawing white tracks through the dirt on the old man's face, creating rivers in the deep crevices of his wrinkles, wetting his ragged hair and soaking his filthy tuxedo. Shivers ran down his spine. But still, he forced himself to look up and face the world that had betrayed him." 13-17 Years Category Ahlia Oliveira da Silveira for Out Here Extract: "Out here, things are dealt with. Fences sag, animals get in, crops get torn through, and you fix it or you lose it. A man is measured by what he carries and what he holds steady and what he can finish, and there is no use for leaving things half done, no use for softness, not out here." 18+ Years Category Damian Perry for Faded Extract: "We tried to include him in everything that week. He’d sit on a comfy chair – we could see the indentation – and we’d ask him questions. But, not being all there, it took him awhile to answer any questions. And the answers didn’t always make sense.” Mornington Peninsula Shire thanks the Shortlist Committee of the Western Port Writes Literary Festival for its assistance in delivering this year's awards. Gratitude is extended to local bookshop sponsors Farrells Bookshop, Petersen's Bookstore and Rosebud Book Barn, along with judges Coral Vass, Megan Rogers, Jaclyn Crupi, Brendan Murray and Sofie Laguna, for their generosity, expertise and commitment to celebrating local writing excellence. Congratulations to all shortlisted writers and winners whose stories inspire, entertain and connect readers through the power of the written word. To read the award-winning stories in full, visit artsandculture.mornpen.vic.gov.au/msswa