WRITE HERE, WRITE NOW
Do you have the Territory's next literary gem nestled in your notebook, cooped up on your computer, or taking up space in your mind? The time has come to set it free and enter the NT Literary Awards.
WORDS LISA PELLEGRINO
THE NT LITERARY Awards has celebrated unpublished works by emerging and established writers for over 40 years.
Tracy Puklowski is the Senior Director for Library and Archives NT and says the awards play an important role in the local literary community.
"We're all about supporting our writers, protecting Territory stories and making sure that those stories are part of our cultural record for years to come."
There are seven award categories spanning a multitude of genres – theatre, creative non-fiction, essay, fiction, youth, poetry, and short story. It doesn't matter if you've been writing for 50 years or 50 minutes, the awards welcome all levels of experience.
"You don't have to be a professional, and you don't have to be a previously published writer to enter. If someone's just dipping their foot in the pool for the first time, then this is a really nice environment to hone their skills", Puklowski says.
The Awards are also the perfect place to challenge and express yourself. Roland Bull won last year’s Flash Fiction award for his piece The Important Affair of the First Male Moneypenny.
“It was a lovely one to win. I pushed myself in writing something sharp, entertaining, and meaningful”, he says.
“It’s also lovely when you’re recognised for writing about queer experiences and perspectives. It enhances visibility and hopefully helps connect with people who are experiencing similar things.”
Puklowski says the Territory itself also provides inspiration for writers.
"We are so large and so sparse and so uniquely situated. All of those things are bound to impact the way that people view the world around them. And certainly, over the last few years, I've noticed that the landscape here is a hugely strong influence on some of the writing that comes through."
It's not just our incredible surroundings that enrich our work.
"We're such an exciting multicultural society here and you see that reflected very much in the applicants and in the writing as well,” shares Puklowski.
Entries close in May, with winners announced at an Awards Ceremony in September. Prizes include cash, memberships, and theatre tickets, with all winning works published in a booklet and online.
So put pen to paper or start tapping on those keyboards and be a part of this year's NT Literary Awards.
WHEN MON 11 MAY (ENTRIES CLOSE)
INFO lant.nt.gov.au
Image: Roland Bull
