CASEY’S young wordsmiths were recognised last month for their creativity and flair in the Fresh Words Young Writers Competition.
The winners of the sixth annual competition, held by the council, were presented at an awards dinner on Thursday 21 November.
There were seven winners and 12 finalists announced out of the record number of 129 entries.
Casey Mayor Geoff Ablett presented the finalists and winners with their awards at the dinner.
“Words can shape and influence our world and in the hands of skilled and talented writers, can inspire people in their millions and leave lasting impressions on all those touched by them,” he said.
“Tonight, I’m reminded again of just how impressive and talented the young people in the City of Casey are.
“I would like to congratulate all of tonight’s participants for their skill and enthusiasm.”
Guest speaker at the awards was Lili Wilkinson, author of young adult fiction including Scatterheart, Angel Fish and A Pocketful of Eyes.
Ms Wilkinson encouraged the emerging writers to work hard, take every opportunity to develop their skills and shared her own journey about becoming a published author.
The competition was open to young people in years seven to 12, in the categories of creative writing, poetry and lyrics and English as a second language.
Entries were judged by a number of criteria, including the expression of ideas, the accurate use of spelling and grammar, vocabulary and originality.
Fresh Words Young Writers Competition winners and finalists:
Poetry and Lyrics Category
Year 7 and 8
Winner: Ashlee Crisp
Finalists: Rachel Crotty and Ryan de Kresler
Year 9 and 10
Winner: Cindy Collins
Finalists: Priscilla Jessica, Breanna Taylor
Year 11 and 12
Winner: Elise Franklin
Finalists: Adrian Harper-Gomm
Creative Writing Category
Year 7 and 8
Winner: Ilise Newham
Finalists: Kristina Collins, Katie Corley
Year 9 and 10
Winner: Thishara Kathriarachchige
Finalists: Cindy Collins, Jazmyn Worrell
Year 11 and 12
Winner: Fiona Chen
Finalists: Melanie Pham
English as a Second Language Category
Year 11 and 12
Winner: Nevena Segar
Finalists: Justin Ooi Zhi Jie, Zamira Rahman
