2026 UPDATE
We're back!
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We're pleased to announce a series of events planned for 2026, beginning on 7 March with an in-person talk on writing and publishing, followed by a Q&A with NEWC Chair and prolific writer, Sophie Masson.
For Heritage Week on Saturday 18 April, Tamworth Library will host historian and writer Gillian Polack, a long-time friend of the NEWC. Live-streaming from Canberra, Gillian will shine a light on Jewish Australia since 1788. We are also putting the finishing touches on the second title in our Writers’ Shorts series, FLOW: Sustain Your Creative Practice, with a release date to be announced soon. While our resources remain modest, our volunteer team continues to be deeply committed to supporting writers and illustrators in the region and beyond. We look forward to connecting with our community in the months ahead. |
We remain deeply grateful to everyone who has been part of the journey. For your support, your participation, your belief in what we do—thank you. These things mean everything to us.
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Writing & Publishing | In-person | Free
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2pm Saturday 7 March - Uralla Library
A broad overview of Australian writing and publishing scene, with tips and insights. Aimed at aspiring and emerging authors those who are already published but would like to know more, and anyone interested in books and publishing.
Phone Uralla library (02) 6778 6470 for more information and bookings. 
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The Jewish community in Australia
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11am Saturday 18 April - Tamworth Library
There has been a Jewish presence in Australia since 1788. This event explores what Jewish life in Australia looks like, from food traditions and the meaning of kosher to learning, prayer, and significant texts. It also considers how Jewish communities have shaped, and been shaped by, wider Australian history, with a special focus on the often-overlooked importance of Jewish families in 19th-century regional Australia.
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Thunderbolt Prize for Crime Writing - submissions opening in July!
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The Thunderbolt Prize for Crime Writing is a nationally recognised, short-form, literary competition for crime writers resident in Australia. It is one of the few major writing prizes with a youth category for writers under 16yrs.
It was with great regret that we were forced to defer this competition for 2025. However, plans are now in motion to bring this popular writing competition back this year, to open for submissions in July. Stay tuned for further updates! |
Please see the quick links above, or click on the menu icon to visit the Archives to see previous years' entries and judges' feedback.
..Books available
...from your local bookstore or direct from the publishers
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An essential resource for anyone interested, or planning a career, in the children's publishing industry, with insights and advice from professional publishers, agents, editors, writers, illustrators and content creators from across Australia.
Proudly produced in the New England by the United Publishers of Armidale. I'll be happily recommending it to any new writers and illustrators. Shaun Tan
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...direct from NEWC
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Discover what it takes to ignite your creative potential and sustain it through the challenges ahead. The first in the New England Writers' Centre's series of chapbooks on building a sustainable creative practice, SPARK offers a fresh approach for aspiring writers seeking to find their creative rhythm.
This is not just another 'how to write' guide. With warmth and humour, SPARK dives into the toughest aspects of creative practice: honestly interrogating why they hold you back and what you can do to overcome them. Find your unique path and explore the question at the heart of every writer’s journey: Who am I as a writer? Product description: Chapbook (10,000 words) Print copy: $14.99 + postage Available directly from the NEWC - email: [email protected] |
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Explore what it means to enter the state writers often call flow and learn how to create the conditions that allow it to return again and again. The second chapbook in the New England Writers' Centre series on building a sustainable creative practice, focuses on the rhythms, habits and trust that support a lasting writing life.
With clarity and encouragement, FLOW looks at the foundations of creative practice: making space for your work, showing up even when it feels difficult and recognising the subtle forces that interrupt momentum. Through reflection and practical insight, writers are invited to deepen their relationship with their practice and develop the steady habits from which craft emerges. Product description:
Chapbook (10,000 words) Print copy: $14.99 + postage Available directly from the NEWC - email: [email protected] |
Crime writers & readers, if you're looking for a tribe we have just the place for you. Visit Sisters in Crime (brothers are welcome!), for a host of amazing resources and competitions, including the Scarlet Stiletto and The Davitt Awards.
See our YouTube channel for our latest videos including the "By the Book" video playlist of tips and advice from local writers, and the Stories Connect series.
And don't forget to become a member or renew your membership to receive discounts on all workshop bookings!
See our YouTube channel for our latest videos including the "By the Book" video playlist of tips and advice from local writers, and the Stories Connect series.
And don't forget to become a member or renew your membership to receive discounts on all workshop bookings!