The theme for our 11th Better Read Kids Writing Competition was Landscapes, and for the very first time we had three different themes! Each of the 120 authors interpreted their theme in an utterly unique way and captured the natural environment beautifully through their stories, poetry and biographies. What stood out most to us this year was the incredible sense of social justice these young authors have, as well as the empathy evident in each voice.

Kids aged 6-9 embraced the theme Bush and wrote wondrous tales of heroism during the devastating bushfire season, witty stories of talking animals and epic adventures through the quintessential Aussie bush.

Desert was the theme for those aged 10-12, and these authors were truly on fire! From Uluru and outback Australia to the deserts of Mars, each story took us on an incredible journey inspired by this arid and barren landscape.

Our 13-17 year olds were given the theme Coast and rose to the challenge with unparalleled sophistication and originality. Boats, seagulls, whales, harbours, waves, caves, hitmen and Bee-Gee bob cuts make appearances in these fabulous stories.