Attention local writers! The Coonabarabran Times have launched a monthly flash fiction competition, The Write-Off, open to writers of all ages across the Warrumbungle region.

On the first day of every month, the Coonabarabran Times will be revealing a unique creative writing prompt across their print and online platforms. Inspired by this theme, writers will have three weeks to develop and submit 300 words of fiction, for the chance to win a special prize and publication in the Coonabarabran Times.

Coonabarabran Times Editor, Kait Britton, says the competition is an excellent way for writers to practice their craft, with the added opportunity to have their work featured in print.

The idea for a local writing competition came about as part of a broader mission by the Coonabarabran Times to stimulate and support creative arts in the Warrumbungles.

“It’s a fun challenge for local writers to flex their creative chops, and one that allows them the chance to reach an established readership,” says Kait.

The idea for a local writing competition came about as part of a broader mission by the Coonabarabran Times to stimulate and support creative arts in the Warrumbungles.

“When we launched the first issue of our lifestyle magazine wattle last year, we were blown away by the talent in Coonabarabran and beyond,” says Kait. “It just goes to show that there is no shortage of creativity and culture in the bush.”

The creative prompt for the month of March is: AUTUMN LEAVES. Entries close midnight, 19 March 2023. In addition to a byline in the Coonabarabran Times, the winner will receive a special prize, starting this month with a copy of The Running Club by Ali Lowe.

The creative prompt for the month of March is: AUTUMN LEAVES.

How to enter:

1. Inspired by this month's creative prompt, write an original short story in 300 words or less. Interpret the theme however you see fit. This month's prompt is AUTUMN LEAVES.

2. Submit your name and story to info@coonabarabrantimes.com before midnight on Sunday, 19 March 2023.

3. The winning story will earn its author a copy of Ali Lowe's gripping new thriller The Running Club and be published in the Coonabarabran Times!

About The Running Club by Ali Lowe:

Everyone pays a premium to live in this town. But someone's paid with their life.

The rules of the running club are the same as they have always been: keep your breath steady, keep your mind sharp, record your laps! Only now there's a new one: don't get killed. 

The wealthy community of Esperance is picture-perfect. Big houses, stunning views, beautiful people. A brand new running track for the local club to jog around in the evenings. From the outside, it looks like paradise.

But the women of the town know the truth: you can hide anything – from wrinkles to secrets from your past – if you have enough money.

You could even hide a murder.

The Running Club is the gripping, twisty page-turner from the author of The Trivia Night, full of secrets, lies and reveals you won't see coming.