There are two short story writing competitions currently calling for writers to submit work, here’s the lowdown on what you need to know. The OutStanding LGBTQI Short Story Competition is Australia’s premier creative writing competition for LGBTQI identified people and this year its open to writers from New Zealand. The theme for this year is ‘Open’ so interpret that how you like and get writing, you have until 1 September to get your 750 word entry in. Winners and Highly Commended will be invited to read their work at the winners event at the Colombian Hotel in Sydney. The second competition to keep in mind is the William Taylor Memorial Heartland Short Story Competition set up by the Taumarunui Writers’ Group. Welcoming 750 word entries in any fiction genre on any theme, the nationwide competition offers a first prize of $300. Closing September 30, check out the website for more details. - 23rd July 2016