Entries are still open for four youth categories: Junior Short Story and Junior Poetry for writers aged 12 years and under, and Youth Short Story and Youth Poetry for writers aged 13 to 17 years.
The Furphy Literary Award Junior Short Story first place winner in 2024 and 2025 Jane Pearce said she encouraged other young people to give it a go.
“You should definitely enter because it opens new opportunities and you can learn new things about yourself,” she said.
“It’s really easy to apply, this is your chance to unleash your imagination and see where it takes you.
“A bonus is you can win cash prizes.”
Prizes are available in each category, with first place receiving $300, second place $100 and third place $50.
City of Greater Shepparton Mayor Shane Sali said young people should submit their work before entries closed.
“The Furphy Literary Awards are a fantastic opportunity for young people to share their ideas, creativity and imagination through writing,” he said.
“You never know where one story could lead.”
Greater Shepparton City Council is presenting the awards in partnership with the Furphy Foundation, La Trobe University and Goulburn Valley Libraries.
Entries close at 11.59pm on Sunday, May 31.
For more information or to submit an entry, visit furphystory.com.au/junioryouth