Young authors have been recognised today, with winners being announced at the Young Territorian Author Awards. Entrants under the age of 18 had the chance to see their stories included in a published collection of work.
The annual writing competition is a chance for children to explore their creativity and cultivate a literary culture.
Minister for Young Territorians, Peter Styles, said the awards produced an avenue for young Territory authors to share their writings and have them recognised as pieces of literary value.
“These awards give young authors the opportunity to see their work published in a real book. To have your work published is a great accomplishment that all writers aspire to and the awards recognise the exceptional young authors of the Territory,” Mr Styles said.
“As Minster for Young Territorians, I am exceptionally proud of the high quality of work we have seen in the 2014 Awards.
“Through its involvement in the Young Territory Author Awards, Darwin City Council has been publishing the stories of Young Territorians for 23 years and the public have access to this amazing body of work, which I recommend everyone take a look at.
Minister Styles said the awards provided opportunities for entrants to network with their peers and gain confidence in the literary world, through contact with other young authors from all over the Territory.
“Authors form Tennant Creek, Katherine and Alice Springs entered the competition, which is getting bigger every year,” Mr Styles said.
“The authors and illustrators who produce the work are able to share their writings with their peers and form long lasting support networks that will last for a long time.
“The strong sense of accomplishment is extremely rewarding for young people under 18 years of age and warrants recognition from The Young Territory Author Awards for their excellent work.”
“The collection is available to borrow by library members. I would like to congratulate Darwin City Council, schools and parents throughout the Territory for giving their time and support to all the entrants in this valuable and worthwhile competition.”
Media Contact: Renee Miller 0407 400 446
2014 Young Territory Author Award Winners
Overall Winner
Irini Melas, (Anula)
Book: THE SAD CAT
8 and Under
Winner: Emma Symonds, (Lyons)
Book: THE RAINBOW LOOM AND THE WOODEN DOLLHOUSE
Highly Commended: Riley George
Book: THE PARROT
Encouragement: Hallie McDowell
Book: THE CAT’S FOOD
9 to 12 years old
Winner: Hanna Hayes, (Mainoru Station, Katherine)
Book: 68 STITCHES
Highly Commended: Chanelle Edie George
Book: THE SNEEZING DRAGON
Encouragement: Nicky Schortz and Tali Stoddart
Book: MACARONI AND CHEESE
13 to 15 years old
Winner: Laura Brearley, (Giraween, Palmerston)
Book: ALL THAT’S IN ME
Highly Commended: Lotus Kelly
Book: AFRAID
16 to 18 years old
Encouragement: Arnah Holland
Book: A MURDER MYSTERY
School Winner
St Joseph's Catholic College Year 3 - 4 D
Book: BENSON, BELLA & THE EVIL PUMPKINS
Regional Winners
Palmerston: Eilis Evans
Book: LOLA AND THE SAND DUNE RESCUE
Alice Springs Winner: Alana Pfau
Book: LILY DIAMOND LILY’S ADVENTURE
Katherine: Hanna Hayes
Book: 68 STITCHES