The Brimbank Writers and Readers Festival (BWRF) 2026 is set to return, and with it comes the much-anticipated Microfiction Competition. In partnership with Vision Australia Library, and Vision Australia Radio, this year's competition invites writers from Melbourne's western suburbs, Vision Australia Library members, and Vision Australia Radio listeners, to showcase their storytelling talents. Whether you're a seasoned writer or a budding storyteller, this is your opportunity to shine.
Competition Theme and Guidelines
Participants are challenged to craft a micro fiction piece of up to 200 words inspired by the Helen Keller quote:
“Keep your face to the sunshine and you cannot see a shadow.”
This theme encourages writers to explore themes of optimism, resilience, and the interplay between light and darkness.
Entries are open to individuals who live, work, or study in Melbourne's western suburbs, as well as Vision Australia Library members, and Vision Australia Radio listeners. Writers have the option to submit an audio recording of their story, ensuring inclusivity for all participants.
Key Dates
- Competition Opens: 1 November 2025
- Entries Close: Midnight, 15 December 2025
- Winners Announced: Winners will be announced, and notable entries read aloud on Vision Australia Radio during the 2026 BWRF festival in March.
Prize Categories
The competition recognizes talent across three age categories:
- Youth (ages 10–13)
- Young Adult (ages 14–18)
- Adult (ages 19+)
Each category will award three prizes, with all prizes consisting of vouchers from The Sun Bookshop in Yarraville:
- 1st place: $200 book voucher
- 2nd place: $150 book voucher
- 3rd place: $100 book voucher
These prizes aim to encourage and support the literary pursuits of the winners.
In a recent interview on Vision Australia Radio, Brimbank Libraries' Scott Steensma shared insights into the upcoming festival. He highlighted that the BWRF is unique in its approach, emphasizing the importance of readers alongside writers. The festival offers a blend of author talks, panel discussions, and writing workshops catering to all ages and skill levels—from novice screenwriters to seasoned poets.
Vi Nguyen from the Vision Australia Library also joined the conversation, unveiling the exciting theme for the microfiction competition. Together, they discussed the collaborative efforts to celebrate storytelling, writing, and reading across Melbourne's west and beyond, reaching festival-goers, Vision Australia clients, and radio listeners alike.
Listen to the full discussion here on Omny.
How to Enter
To participate, visit the Brimbank Libraries website for full competition details and submission guidelines. Whether you're submitting a written story or an audio recording, ensure your entry aligns with the theme and adheres to the word limit. This is a fantastic opportunity to share your voice and be part of a vibrant literary community.
Don't miss out on this chance to be part of the Brimbank Writers and Readers Festival 2026. Start crafting your microfiction today and let your creativity shine!
