Calling Writers, Poets, and Book Cover Designers Nationwide
Wednesday 14 February 2024
The eagerly awaited return of the Whitsundays Writers Festival in September 2024 heralds an exciting opportunity for writers, poets, and book cover designers across Australia.
In a bold initiative, the festival announces the launch of the Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards, offering substantial cash prizes to recognise and honour outstanding contributions to the literary and design landscape.
The Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards’ mission is to spotlight the diverse talents within the Australian creative community while also paying homage to the captivating Heart Reef—a natural wonder found in the Whitsundays region.
Festival President Karen Jacobsen expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, stating “Beyond assembling some of Australia’s celebrated authors in Airlie Beach, our festival aims to celebrate and champion homegrown writing and design talent. The Heart Awards epitomise our commitment to nurturing creativity and honouring the legacy of festival founder Gloria Burley.”
“We believe in celebrating the richness of Australian creativity in all its forms. The Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards are a testament to our commitment to recognising and rewarding the extraordinary talents within our community,” remarked Karen. “What better way to recognise Gloria’s legacy than initiate a creative writers’ award named in her honour.”
The Heart Awards comprise four distinct categories, each offering a platform for recognition and celebration:
- The Gloria Burley Award for Best Unpublished Manuscript
- The Published Book Cover Design Award
- Best Short Story Award (adult and under 18 years old divisions)
- Poetry Prize
The Whitsundays Writers Festival will award up to $10,000 in prizes across the four categories. Finalists in each category will receive significant recognition, with both long and shortlists announced ahead of the festival.
“The unparalleled generosity of these prizes solidifies the Heart Awards as a premier platform for Australian regional writers’ competitions,” Karen affirmed. “Our festival stands as an example for recognising and rewarding creative talent, fostering a culture that champions the invaluable contributions of our artists.”
Aspiring, emerging, and seasoned writers, designers, and poets are encouraged to review submission guidelines available on the festival’s website, ensuring compliance to entry requirements. There are no geographic limitations other than being an Australian citizen or resident.
Karen also emphasised the significance of book cover design, stating, “In a world where first impressions matter, book covers serve as visual gateways to literary worlds. We are proud to shine a spotlight on the designers whose artistry enriches the literary landscape,” Karen remarked. “There is little recognition for our designers and the cover prize is a timely addition to the Heart Awards.”
A well-regarded panel of judges comprising readers, writers, and thinkers will diligently evaluate submissions to identify exceptional works worthy of recognition.
Submissions are now open. Writers, designers, and poets at all stages of their careers are invited to participate in the Heart Awards by submitting their work for consideration. Complete details, deadlines, and submission forms are accessible on the Whitsundays Writers Festival website.
Media contact
Richard Evans
Festival Convenor
Mobile: 0413 331 944
Email: richard@whitsundayswriters.com