Finalists named for Geraldton’s Big Sky Readers and Writers Festival short story prize

The shortlist for the Big Sky Shorty Story Prize has been announced, as Geraldton’s Big Sky Readers and Writers Festival draws near.

The festival started in 2005 as a small group, before expanding into the four-day festival known and celebrated in the city.

This year, seven writers have been shortlisted for the top honour.

The nominations include Carrie Puzzar, Annie Chandler, Samantha Chant, Sarah Jane Greenlees, Marc Christoffersen, Annette Sellers and Darcy Hay.

City of Greater Geraldton mayor Jerry Clune said: “Big Sky is one of our most popular events and it continues to grow each year.

“Having such a varied program of literary delights means the event offers something for everyone.

“I congratulate all the writers who have made the shortlist and look forward to seeing who takes the win.”

The awards winners will be announced at the opening night of the festival at Geraldton Regional Library on October 10.

The festival is run with the support of the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Services, Lotterywest, Friends of Geraldton Library, Eastman Poletti Sherwood, Cranecorp Australia, Arbitare, Writers of the Coral Coast and the Ocean Centre Hotel.

A number of locations across Greater Geraldton will host the festival, including the library, Queens Park Theatre, Geraldton Regional Art Gallery, Greenough, Walkaway and Northampton.

The festival will run from October 10 until October 13.