The Newcastle Herald Short Story Competition for 2026 has reached its final stage, with the public now invited to vote for the People's Choice award. Organisers have narrowed down the entries, and readers can read the shortlisted stories online before casting their vote. Voting closes at midnight on Thursday, January 29.
Entrants were asked to write a 1000-word story inspired by one of several provided images. The judging panel includes Miles Franklin-shortlisted author Dr Ryan O'Neill, Kathy Sloss from MacLean's Booksellers, Hunter Writers Centre director Katherine McLean, ACM head of publishing Chad Watson, Newcastle Herald senior deputy editor Matt Carr, and Herald editor Lisa Allan.
The overall winner, a highly commended entrant, and the People's Choice winner will be announced on Saturday, January 31, 2026. The winner receives a $200 voucher at MacLean's Booksellers, a $100 Harvey Norman voucher, and a VIP double pass to the opening night of the 2026 Newcastle Writers Festival. The highly commended entrant gets a $100 MacLean's voucher, a $100 Harvey Norman voucher, and a similar VIP pass. The People's Choice winner receives a $50 MacLean's voucher, a $100 Harvey Norman voucher, and a VIP double pass.
One of the shortlisted stories, titled 'The Tower,' follows a narrator reflecting on a demolished observation tower in Newcastle. The story explores themes of memory, loss, and the city's changing identity, as the narrator encounters a friend and contemplates missed opportunities and societal pressures.
