2026 UPDATE
We're back!
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We're excited to announce that a series of workshops is in the pipeline for 2026, commencing on 7 March with an in-person talk on writing and publishing, followed by a Q&A with our Chair, Sophie Masson.
In addition, we're putting the finishing touches on #2 in our Writers' Shorts series, FLOW: Sustain Your Creative Practice, with a release to be announced soon. While our circumstances remain modest, our volunteer team remains committed to supporting writers and illustrators in the region and beyond. We're looking forward to connecting with our community in the months ahead. |
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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.
Looking for the menu? Click the three horizontal lines top left
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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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Thunderbolt Prize for Crime Writing - will be back in 2026!
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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 in in late June or early July. Further updates will be released in April. |
Please see the quick links above, or click on the menu icon to visit the Archives to see previous years' entries and judges' feedback.
Illustration Prize for Children's Picture Book Publishing
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Launched in 2017 by the New England Writers' Centre, the New England Illustration Prize for Children's Picture Book Publishing (The Illustration Prize), has been recognised as an important event in the competitions calendar for aspiring illustrators.
The Illustration Prize garners a great deal of interest and respect from the industry, with many of our winners awarded contracts with major publishers. Unfortunately, due to funding cuts, the Illustration Prize has been deferred until further notice. |
See the Quick Links above, or click on the menu icon to see the Archives and enjoy the artwork from previous years.
Varuna-NEWC Fellowship
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The Varuna-NEWC Fellowship offers a week's inspirational writing residency in the beautiful surroundings of Varuna, in the Blue Mountains.
The Fellowship includes full board and accommodation at Varuna, funds towards travel, a one-on-one consultation with a Varuna expert and more. The Fellowship is open to all writers, at any stage of their career, either currently living in the New England region, or who have previously lived there for at least five years. |
..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] |
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!