UPDATE: The winners of the highly anticipated **2026 Newcastle Herald Short Story Competition** have been announced, showcasing emotional depth and poignant themes that resonate with today’s pressing issues. **Karen Whitelaw**, a Newcastle writer, has claimed her second short story prize this year, adding to her accolades after also winning in **2020**.
Whitelaw’s winning story, titled **”Semaphore,”** is a haunting narrative set in a near-future world grappling with unresolved crises from the present. Inspired by a striking photograph of the **Stockton ferry** by **Marina Neil**, Whitelaw explores themes of climate anxiety, refugee crises, and the human condition. “We think ‘this’ is what the future will be like, but in fact, those things are happening now,” she stated, highlighting the urgency of these issues.
In a remarkable emotional journey, **Jacob Moore** secured the **popular category** award with his story about an expectant mother who discovers a letter from another mother who lost her child. Moore, who hadn’t written in a long time, said he sought to delve into the depths of unspoken emotions, inspired by a bittersweet image of a car beneath a rainbow. “I was taken aback just from reading them,” he said, reflecting on the real letters that influenced his writing.
The judges also recognized **Ned Stephenson** as a highly commended writer for his evocative piece inspired by the same photograph that influenced Whitelaw’s work. Drawing from his time spent with **Mission Australia**, Stephenson’s story captures the memories of a loved one through the lens of urban graffiti. “It’s a real buzz, and any of these competitions mean a lot to the people who enter,” he expressed.
As part of their awards, Whitelaw will receive a **$200 voucher** at **MacLean’s Booksellers**, a **$100 Harvey Norman voucher**, and a VIP double pass to the opening night of the **2026 Newcastle Writers Festival**. Stephenson will take home a **$100 MacLean’s voucher**, a **$100 Harvey Norman voucher**, and a VIP double pass, while Moore will receive a **$50 MacLean’s voucher**, a **$100 Harvey Norman voucher**, and a VIP double pass.
This year’s competition highlights the rich tapestry of human experience and emotions, demonstrating the power of storytelling to address both personal and global challenges. The Newcastle Herald continues to celebrate creativity and connection through the written word, encouraging writers to engage with the critical issues of our time.
Stay tuned for more updates as the **2026 Newcastle Writers Festival** approaches, where these talented authors will be celebrated for their contributions to literature and social issues.
