About the project

Writing RidgeWalk is seeking submissions from writers with a connection to the Dandenong Ranges.

Selected works will become an integral part of RidgeWalk, a 39km walking track that invites us to explore the natural wonders, rich histories and cultural offerings of the Dandenong Ranges, through art and storytelling.

We are looking for short works – no longer than two minutes read aloud – that encourage us to see the region in new ways and to engage with its many facets more deeply; stories that surprise, provoke and inspire.

Selected works will feature alongside those commissioned from nationally-acclaimed writers working across a number of genres.

Collectively the works will provide a platform to launch a Public Participatory Writing Project for RidgeWalk, as well as a writers festival, in 2023. Some writers may have the opportunity to participate in the delivery of the public program and/or writers festival, though this is not a requirement for submission.

Given the project is on Wurundjeri land, Wurundjeri and other First Nations writers are encouraged to apply.

The brief

The written work can respond to any of the aims of RidgeWalk:

  • Interpret the cultural, social, historical and environmental context of RidgeWalk, including some of its key themes, such as Activism, and Colour, form and light.
  • Explore the ways in which the Country or landscape of RidgeWalk can be understood, translated, felt or experienced.
  • Draw on the history and legacy of creativity in the Dandenong Ranges: explore why creatives have been drawn to this place over time or respond to their works.

See for RidgeWalk Summary Document for further information


Deadline: 9am Monday, 15 November, 2021

Eligibility

  • Be a writer in any genre
  • Live, work or play within the Dandenong Ranges - we are looking for writers who have an existing connection with the area.

Submission guidelines

  • Preference will be given to works that are no longer than two minutes read aloud, 400 words, or 40 lines of poetry.
  • They can be in ANY genre: poetry (page or performance), prose, flash fiction, experimental.
  • We are seeking a broad range of works that align with the RidgeWalk themes.
  • All works will need to be appropriate for the general public.
  • All submissions to be submitted by 9am Monday, 15 November.
  • Submissions can be sent as a PDF or audio file (do not include the writers name on the document or in the file)
  • A copy of the written text must be included in the submission form.
  • The work must not have been previously published.
  • One submission per writer.
  • All works will be considered anonymously; therefore, the name of the writer must not appear on the work/recording (including the header or footer).
  • Works will be selected by an expert panel.
  • While a name and email address will be requested in the online submission, these will not be seen by the selection panel. They will only be used to inform writers of the status of their submission or to seek clarification.

Publication

Digital

The work will be included on the Yarra Ranges Council website RidgeWalk page and on a purpose-built app, as a recording and/or text. Links to these may also be available along the track.

Print

Extracts of the works, alongside profiles of the writers, may be included in printed materials, including track brochures and/or promotional materials.


Payment

Successful writers will receive a payment of $350 for each accepted submission, including recording.