Williamstown Literary Festival – Young Adas Short Story Competition

Every year, some of our talented writers submit entries to several writing competitions. The Young Adas Short Story competition attracts young writers from more than 35 schools in the Western suburbs. From more than 70 entries, ten shortlisted writers are selected to be published in the Adas Anthology. Melissa Horne, the MP for Williamstown presented the awards at a ceremony held on Saturday 21st June 2025. The Anthology can be borrowed from the Town Park library.

Congratulations to Ali Ozgun (Year 12) whose short story ‘The New Face of an Old Street’ received the runner up award.

Judges said: “Ali’s story captures the life and history of Hasan, the owner of a newly aquired Turkish restaurant in Melbourne, a place filled with the smell of ‘tumeric and fresh plaster’. The story is all about food, family and culture (including influencers, cuisine, developers) – but mostly food, and is propelled by a series of evocative brief scenes, imbued with a sense of local authenticity. Plus, it made our mouths water.”

Ali said: “I enjoyed sharing my passion for food and Turkish culture in my story about the joys and challenges of running Western suburbs cafe. I encourage anyone who loves storytelling to enter the competition next year.”