Poets Called to the Page as Heart Awards Open on World Poetry Day
- Open to all for poems of any form, topic, and length
- First prize $1,000 and Runner-up $500
- Submissions close Friday 26 June 2026 and $20 entry fee applies
On Saturday 21 March, in celebration of World Poetry Day, the Whitsundays Writers Festival is turning its spotlight to poetry – announcing the opening of entries for the 2026 Heart Awards Poetry Prize.
This year’s call is simple: write boldly, write honestly, and be heard.
The Heart Awards is open to all, creating space for both emerging voices and seasoned poets to step forward. With cash prizes of $1,000 for the winner and $500 for runner-up, the competition offers not only recognition, but real reward for those willing to put their words on the line.
Set against the backdrop of a region known for its natural beauty and creative spirit, the 2026 festival will culminate on 13 September at the Whitsunday Marine Club in Airlie Beach, where winning entries will be announced as part of a program celebrating local writers and original voices.
Poets are encouraged to submit original works that reflect craft, creativity, and express a distinct point of view. Whether spare and sharp or rich with imagery, the focus is on work that resonates – poetry that lingers.
While contemporary tools may play a role in the writing process, the festival is clear: entries must remain genuinely the poet’s own work, with AI usage checks in place to ensure integrity across all submissions.
Festival Director, Richard Evans, sees the poetry category as a vital part of the Heart Awards – an invitation to slow down, pay attention, and say something that matters.
“Poetry cuts through the noise. It distils thought and feeling into something immediate and lasting. We’re inviting poets to take that moment and make it count.” said Richard.
Entries are now open, with full details, conditions, and submission forms available via the festival website
Entries close 11:59pm Friday 26 June 2026.
About the Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards
The Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards are an initiative of the Whitsundays Writers Festival, a national celebration of Australian literary and artistic excellence. More than a competition, this suite of awards honours the craft and courage of storytelling in all its forms – from the raw power of an unpublished manuscript to the visual poetry of a book cover. Each year, we invite writers, poets, and designers from across the nation to submit their work. We seek to discover new voices, elevate emerging talent, and celebrate the finished works that enrich our culture. The Heart Awards are a testament to the festival’s deep commitment to the future of Australian literature and its creators.
Media contact
Cait Fleming
hello@whitsundayswriters.com