Fisher's Ghost Writing Prize 2026

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The Fisher’s Ghost Writing Prize returns in 2026, inviting local writers to take part in a storytelling tradition that is deeply connected to Campbelltown.

A highlight of the annual Fisher's Ghost Festival, the Fisher's Ghost Writing Prize celebrates local storytelling, creative expression, and the growth of Campbelltown's emerging writers. This year, the iconic community festival, inspired by the legendary tale of Fred Fisher's ghost, celebrates its 70th year, having been a beloved local tradition since 1956.
 
Campbelltown City Libraries and WestWords welcome writers of all levels to explore this year’s theme, 'Years in the Making'.
 
Whether you write short stories, narrative nonfiction, memoir or poetry, this is your chance to share your voice. This writing prize is open to anyone who lives, works or attends school (including TAFE or university), in the Campbelltown Local Government area, from Grade 4 and above. It is a chance to develop an idea, tell a story that matters to you, and be part of a local creative tradition that continues to grow each year. 

 

Prizes

Adult: Winner $300, Highly Commended $100.

Students: In each category (Grades 4-6, Grades 7-9, Grades 10-12) Winner $100, Highly Commended $50

Competition details

  • All work must be original and within 500 words, or 25 lines for poetry (excluding the title)
  • Submissions in each age category will be judged on originality, creativity, language construction, and engagement with the theme
  • The judges’ decision is final, and no correspondence will be entered into in relation to decisions reached
  • Winners will be announced at a special ceremony.
  • Read the full terms and conditions of entry here.

How to enter

Fisher’s Ghost Writing Prize is managed by WestWords.

Submit your entry

Entries open: Friday 26 June, 2026, 9:00AM

Entries close: Monday 7 September, 2026, 10:00AM

 

 

   

Writing Workshops

Our free writing workshops and writer's groups will help aspiring local writers get their final works ready for entry. These workshops are designed to guide participants through the creative process and refine their works.

When

  • Friday, 26 June 2026 | 09:00 AM - Monday, 07 September 2026 | 10:00 AM

Location

Campbelltown Library (HJ Daley), 147-157 Queen Street, Campbelltown, 2560, View Map

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SUBMIT YOUR ENTRY

Event Snapshot

Cost

Free

Contact

Campbelltown City Libraries
02 4645 4444
LibraryPrograms@Campbelltown.nsw.gov.au
WestWords Website

Suitable For

The Fisher’s Ghost Writing Prize is open to anyone who lives, works or attends school (including TAFE or University), in the Campbelltown Local Government area from school grade 4 and above.

  • Kids 9-12
  • Youth 13-17
  • Young Adults 18 -24
  • Adults
  • Seniors

Previous Published Works

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