Join us for the announcement of the winner of the 2026 Fresh Ink Emerging Writer Prize.

The Fresh Ink Emerging Writers Prize is an annual literary competition hosted by the Newcastle Writers Festival that supports regional and marginalised voices across New South Wales. Each of our five shortlisted writers will read an extract from their work, before the announcement of the winner.

This is a free event at Watt Space Gallery, but registration is essential. Refreshments will be served.

Meet the Judges

Sarah Armstrong is an award-winning journalist and the author of three acclaimed novels for adults, including the Miles Franklin-shortlisted Salt Rain. Sarah is on the board of the Byron Writers Festival and teaches creative writing to children and adults.

Raeden Richardson is the author of The Degenerates, which was nominated for the Miles Franklin Literary Award. Raeden’s writing has appeared in Griffith Review, The Sydney Morning Herald, Meanjin and New Australian Fiction.

Accessibility:

The gallery is wheelchair accessible

Disability parking is available on Auckland Street either sides of the King Street intersection.

Travel:

Limited unmetered street parking is available

The closest light rail stop is Civic - 3 min walk

The closest bus stop is University House, King St (Stop ID 230048) and is serviced by the 11, 13 and 23 buses - 1 min walk