Regional youth to ‘shout-out’ their stories in storytelling competition

Young people of the Western Downs will soon have a chance to tell their stories in Western Downs Libraries’ upcoming Shout Out! Storytelling Competition.

Funded by the Queensland Government’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Package, the storytelling competition will give young people in the Western Downs a platform to share how they have overcome challenges with the help of their community.

Council Spokesperson for Community and Cultural Development Councillor Kaye Maguire said this competition provided an opportunity for our youth to demonstrate their talent, resilience, and vibrant community spirit.

“So often we see stories written about young people, but rarely stories written by young people. Shout Out! Storytelling Competition is an opportunity for young people to tell their stories in their own words,” she said.

“When we hear other people’s stories of overcoming adversity, like drought or the impact of COVID-19, we are connected through these shared experiences with others in our community.

“Our young people are the future of our region, and Council is proud to be able to provide this opportunity for aspiring writers to show their skills and share their experiences.”

Western Downs Libraries will be working closely with schools across the region to encourage students to participate.

“It’s not just a chance to tell a story, it’s a fantastic opportunity for aspiring young writers,” Cr Maguire said.

“Participants are required to submit a written story of 400-500 words or 4 to 5-minute recording about how they have faced challenges with the help of their community.

“Three finalists will have their stories professionally produced into a video, which will be premiered at Words Out West: Western Downs Readers and Writers Fest 2022.

“The finalists will also receive double passes to the Words Out West festival day and cash prizes.”

Shout Out! Storytelling Competition is open to those aged 14 to 18 years who live, work or study in the Western Downs. Entries open Wednesday 1 September and close Wednesday 1 December 2021.

For more about the Shout Out! Storytelling Competition contact Western Downs Libraries on 1300 268 624 (COUNCIL) or visit www.westerndownslibraries.com

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Media Contact:

Western Downs Regional Council Media Office                                                07 4679 4265