Winter Write-off competition: Get creative in the colder months

Published on 30 May 2025

Writers of all ages can put pen to paper or tap away on a keyboard to develop a creative piece to enter in our Winter Write-off.

We’re encouraging budding poets, flash fiction fans or anyone looking for a creative outlet to get writing for a chance to win!  

There are two categories to enter:

• Seven Sentence Story – Tell a story in 200 words or less.
• You’re a Poet and You Know It – Write a poem up to 500 words, including the word WINTER.

How to enter:

1. Pick up a Winter Write-off entry form from any library branch.
2. Choose your category and age group.
3. Write your piece directly on the form or attach it to the form.
4. Submit your entry to staff at any branch by Thursday 31 July.

Entrants may submit one entry per category, but each entry must have its own separate entry form.

More details:

• Entries must be handwritten or typed and printed.
• A Maribyrnong Libraries membership is required to participate.
• Winners will be notified via the contact details on their entry form and announced at a special event on Saturday 16 August.

Prizes:

Entries are judged and prizes awarded across three age groups:

• Under 12
• Under 18
• Over 18

There will be nine winners in each category, with three prizes awarded per age group.

• Seven Sentence Story:
  • Under 12 (x3): Squishmallows Plush
  • Under 18  (x3): LEGO Creator 3in1 Typewriter with Flowers
  • Over 18 (x3): Rory's story cubes
• You’re a poet and You Know it:
  • Under 12: (x3) LEGO DREAMZzz Set
  • Under 18: (x3) LEGO Creator 3in1 Record Player with Flowers
  • Over 18: (x3) Any Day Now X Ballograf Notebook, Pen and Pouch Gift Set

Need inspiration?
Visit your Maribyrnong Libraries branch and take part in the Warm Winter Read to build a daily reading habit and be part of a range of free workshops and events to get you writing.