The Writing Challenge of 2022 was an amazing success where we received over 300 entries from students from Grade One to Years Eight.  You and your kids were all part of that. The way your schools and others embraced the Challenge was not only a delight but made us realise that creating such an avenue for young writers was something that was called for. 

The idea originally came from Melbourne the City of Literature who suggested that we might receive 30 entries and that if we received 100 entries it would be remarkable! Nothing like throwing down the gauntlet. 

12 entries were selected to be performed on the day of the Fish Creek Festival of Children’s Stories which attracted 2000 people, many of whom were there to hear the performances.  This year we are selecting 20 stories for performing. 

Another addition this year for the Challenge is the inclusion of Picture Stories. 

All the information you need can be found on the webpage, Fishystories.org which is quite comprehensive. The 350 word limit for written stories is the same plus the details for the Picture Story entrants. On the webpage you will find tips for both the written stories and the picture stories, and where you can submit your students work. There’s a video introducing the Challenge, conditions of entry, judging guidelines and suggestions on how to develop your story. There is also a spot where you can ask us questions you might have.  

Of course we can’t forget that EVERY story and Picture Story will be published in an eBook, with the wonderful support of Cambridge University Press (don’t forget to check out the 2022 eBook on the website). What a great thing to be published at such a young age. And what a valuable resource for teachers and kids to see what’s possible.  

Like last year, we will be hand delivering or sending by mail to your school, Bookmarks with the QR code for submission and Writing Challenge posters early Term Three.  

Let’s go above and beyond last year’s numbers.  

Thanks for getting on board again. 

Yours 

Michael Hyde 

Convenor of the Writing Challenge for the Fish Creek Festival of Children’s Stories.