Calling all Aussie poets and wordsmiths.
The prestigious Cloncurry Prize Poetry Competition is back, offering a remarkable $10,000 prize for the winning poem. Nestled in the heart of the Outback, Cloncurry sets the stage for this celebration of verse, paying homage to the rich literary tradition of the land down under.
Named after the iconic Cloncurry local, Dame Mary Gilmore, whose legacy continues to inspire, this competition beckons both budding and seasoned poets to weave their magic with words. With over 160 entries flooding in last year, the competition is a testament to the enduring allure of poetry in capturing the essence of life in the Australian Outback.
Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around the region here.
Reflecting on the theme of ‘Standing on the Shoulders of Giants,’ entrants are invited to explore the vast landscape of Outback Australia through the lens of their own experiences and imagination. From towering mountains to resilient communities, from legendary figures to everyday heroes, the Outback provides an endless well of inspiration for poets to draw from.
Mayor Greg Campbell emphasizes the competition’s significance in shining a spotlight on the Outback, promoting its natural beauty, rich heritage, and the indomitable spirit of its people. By honouring Dame Mary Gilmore’s profound connection to Cloncurry and her contributions to education and literacy, the competition pays tribute to her legacy while seeking to unearth the next iconic voice in Australian poetry.
“This year’s theme could see poems about a 30-metre-long Sauropod, or an unrideable horse, or even a child remembering their father. The Outback provides limitless inspiration, and it’s exciting to call both adult and junior poets, amateur and published to enter,” said Mayor Campbell.
As entries flood in from across the country, the anticipation builds for the announcement of the winner at a ceremony held in Cloncurry on 21 June 2024. With each verse penned, the Cloncurry Prize Poetry Competition continues to weave a tapestry of stories that capture the essence of the Australian Outback, ensuring that its beauty and spirit endure through the power of poetry.
Entries for the Cloncurry Prize close on May 3. Enter here.
