Congratulations to all the entrants shortlisted for our Microfiction Competition!
With a pool of incredible entries submitted this year, our judges have selected the stories that truly stood out for their creativity, originality, and impact. Check out who’s in the running for this year’s prizes and celebrate the imagination and skill of these talented writers.
Here is the shortlist for 2026:
Youth shortlist:
Callan Talbot – The Rescue
Makayla Bao Phan – Dirty Alleys (Maybe meant to be.)
Grace O’Connor – CHIN UP
Aaryan Duggan – Flight 666
Natalie Nguyen – The Past Can’t Be Killed, It’s Your Shadow
Young Adult Shortlist:
Serena Hawkins – Stronger Like You
Laurence Chau – Hero’s Pursuit
Jessica Ellwood – Facing the light
Avneet Kaur – Grey
Rose Madsen – A Friend Can Light the Way
Adult shortlist:
Lidia Ostepeev – The Tragedy of Diana Mariscal – almost a true story
D.P. Heasly – It’s What The Sunflowers Do
Sussan Khadem – Moments
Zuleyka Zevallos – Yanapuma in the Yarra
Lydia Cattani – Grandma Greta
Each story captures ideas, emotions, and surprises, showcasing the power of storytelling in just a few carefully chosen words. A copy of the shortlisted stories will be available shortly to read at our library branches.
Wishing all entrants the best of luck!
Update – 20 March 2026
Winning entries were announced on Vision Australia Radio’s Hear This on Friday 13 March at 3 pm.
Visit the Brimbank Writers & Readers Festival 2026 – Highlights and Thanks page to see the winners.
