2025 South Perth Young Writers Award winners announced

News Update 15 September 2025

Libraries Features

A gripping dystopian story by upper secondary student Ryan Raghuvanshi has taken out the top prize at the 39th annual South Perth Young Writers Award (SPYWA).

Held at the South Perth Community Hall on 11 September, this year’s event attracted more than 175 entries, highlighting an impressive level of literary talent across all age groups.

Prizes were awarded in five age categories across both primary and secondary school levels, recognising standout entries from a highly talented pool of young writers.

Ryan’s powerfully crafted entry, which cleverly moves the reader from joy to uncertainty and then to dread, earned him the prestigious South Perth Young Writers Bronze Medallion, presented to the most outstanding entry across all categories.

The entries showcased a wide range of genres, including humour, dystopian, mystery, adventure and heartwarming family stories.

Mayor Greg Milner, who presented the winners with their certificates at the ceremony, said it was encouraging to see so many budding young writers in the community, with this year attracting even more entries than last year’s impressive turnout.

“Congratulations to all the winners, and a heartfelt thank you to every student who took the time out of their busy schedules to enter. This dedication to storytelling is what makes the South Perth Young Writers Award such a special celebration of young literary talent,” he said.

“SPYWA encourages young writers to explore a wide spectrum of subjects, styles and themes, and this year’s winners are a true reflection of that.”

Mr Milner said it was wonderful to see the award continuing to foster a love of reading, creative writing and storytelling among young people in the community.

“Local author and 2023 South Perth Children’s Literature Champion H.M. Waugh was blown away by the astounding quality of the shortlisted entries, which makes the achievements of the finalists all the more commendable,” he said.

CHRISTOBEL MATTINGLEY BRONZE MEDALLION WINNER