Calling all writers – the Stratford Shakespeare Festival Committee is excited to announce the annual Sheila Malady Short Story Competition is open for entries.
Now in its 12th year, the competition awards prizes in three separate categories, including a prize for the best story written by a Gippsland resident.
Judges are eagerly awaiting entries and are excited to see how writers will interpret this year’s theme, Much Ado About Nothing.
This year shortlisted entries in the open section will be sent to the final judge, Carloyn Martinez, publishing director of Hawkeye Books.
This is an exciting opportunity for authors to get their work in front of the acquiring editor of an up-and-coming Australian publishing house.
The winner of the open section will be awarded a $300 cash prize and a spectacular wooden quill handcrafted by local artist, Gavin Roberts.
Prizes in other categories include book vouchers generously donated by Collins Booksellers, Sale.
Shortlisted authors will be contacted by email, and winners will be announced at the opening night of the festival, Thursday April 23, 2026, at The Stratford Courthouse Theatre.
Winners’ names and stories will be published on the website after the festival’s conclusion.
