Residents have the chance to get their stories published by taking part in the Living Stories writing competition.

The competition, which will be carried out by Camden Libraries in partnership with WestLit Libraries (a partnership between WestWords and Western Sydney Libraries), invites personal experiences to be shared through storytelling with works to be judged and winning entrants to be published in a book and on a dedicated website.

WestWords executive director, Michael Campbell, said he was excited to give Camden local people confidence to portray their stories.

“This competition will give the opportunities for Western Sydney writers to have their stories recognised and published;” Mr Campbell said.

“It will raise high the stories of Western Sydney. I have no doubt everyone will defy preconceptions.”

Mayor of Camden, Cr Theresa Fedeli said young people had a chance to have their stories heard by a wide audience.

“Our local young people are so creative, so this is a great opportunity for them to let their imagination run wild and put their stories on paper,” Cr Fedeli said.

“This is our chance to also have Camden’s stories included in a project that encompasses every aspect of life.

“I encourage our young people to put their pens to paper and get involved in the Living Stories writing competition.”

The competition categories include:

• 10-12 years;
• 13-15 years;
• 16-17 years; and
• 18 years and over.

Entrants are encouraged to attend a creative writing workshop to receive tips and tricks in preparing for the competition:

• 10-12 years category – Tuesday 13 April, 10-11.30am, at Oran Park Library in the Lakeside room;
• 13-15 years category – Friday 16 April, 12-1.30pm, at Narellan Library in the Red Gum room;
• 16-17 years category – Friday 16 April, 2-3.30pm, at Narellan Library in the Red Gum room; and
• 18 years and over category – Thursday 22 April, 6-7.30pm, at Oran Park Library in the Lakeside room

This project was made possible through Create NSW Stimulus Package funding (Arts Restart Stage Two).

For more information on the competition, click here.