July is the creative literary community’s time to shine and have their talents rewarded.

Central Coast Council’s annual Short Story Competition is almost here, and to assist any passionate writers out there, free writing workshops will be held for each division.

Council’s Section Manager of Library Services, Ms Andreas Edwards, urged anyone who has ever thought about entering to come along and get some handy hints and tips.

“These free workshops will help inspire and encourage any budding writers across the Coast develop their story,” Ms Edwards said.

“The workshops will be run by Gareth Beal, a published local freelance author and teacher of Creative Writing at Central Coast Community College.

“Seats are very limited so make sure you book your spot today and don’t risk missing out on this rare and sought after opportunity for free expert advice.”

The free short story writing workshops run for an hour 40 minutes and will be held on Monday 4 July at the Erina Centre (meeting room 3) or Tuesday 5 July at Tuggerah Library.

For both locations, session times are;
· Junior (5-8 years) at 9am
· Children (9-12 years) at 11am
· Youth (13-17 years) at 1pm
· Adult (18+) at 3pm

Bookings are essential. Erina workshops can be booked via www.gosford.nsw.gov.au/libraries and the Tuggerah workshops can be booked via www.wyong.nsw.gov.au/events.

“This is the fifth year the competition has been running, though will be the first time it’s open to all Central Coast library members and residents,” Ms Edwards added.

“We are very proud of what this competition has achieved, helping to encourage an appreciation of reading and creative writing as well as providing a platform for aspiring local writers to be discovered and have their creative efforts recognised.

“This year winners of each division will win an iPad air, with second prize receiving an iPad mini, and commended entries a book prize.”

Entries for the 2016 Short Story Competition can be up to 1500 words and will be accepted from Monday 11 July until 5pm Friday 5 August.

Entry forms and Terms and Conditions will be available on the website closer to the opening date.