HINTERLAND TIMES YOUNG WRITER OF THE YEAR - We have a winner!

‘AI or Reality’ was a tough subject, but young writers across the hinterland rose to the challenge and we were lucky to read original, thought-provoking, entertaining, and often moving stories. Interestingly, a majority warned of the decline or even decimation of human connection and emotion through AI – we should be listening to the younger generations on this, as they will be reaping what we sow.

Stories came from a wide reach, including Maleny, Conondale, Woodford, Palmwoods,

Montville, Kenilworth, Nambour, Mapleton, Eudlo, Landborough and Yandina.

As usual, there were only one or two votes between the top five. In addition to the winner and two runners-up, have two ‘Highly Commended’ writers and two special mentions from the judges, due to their originality and superb descriptive storytelling.

So, without further ado, a huge congratulations to our 2025 winner, Peppa Hammat with her story, ECHOES. 

You can read about the presentation, Peppa’s thoughts on crafting the story, and the story itself on pages 4 and 5. Our two runner-up stories, from Amelia Laundy and Bayli Robinson are on pages 6 and 7. We will also publish the two Highly Commended stories in our November issue.

Winner

Echoes by Peppa Hammat

Runners-Up

The Day the Stars Shone Again by Bayli Robinson

No Input Detected by Amelia Laundy

Highly Commended

The Bobinator by Ken and Tina Greten

Virtual Lies by Zoe Percival

Special Judges’ Mention

Choose Who to Trust by Cleo Laundy

The Heart of the Sea by Oliver Bridal

Judgement Before the Inferno by Laif Godson-King

A huge thank you to our prize sponsors: Rosetta Books, Maleny; Forest Heart Nursery; The Barn on Flaxton, Maleny Arts Council, Homegrown Cafe Palmwoods, Celebrating Books - Maleny Team, Outspoken Presents, and two generous donors who wishes to remain anonymous.