Young Territory Author Awards

The Young Territory Author Awards (YTAA) are an annual writing competition where entrants write and produce their own book. The Awards aim to inspire children and young people in the NT to explore their ideas and turn them into stories. The competition is open to all Territorians 18 years and under and is organised in association with other public libraries and schools throughout the Northern Territory.

Entries close 27 August 2026 and the winners will be announced at an invite-only ceremony in Darwin in November 2026.

There are lots of prizes to be won:

The Young Territory Author of the year receives $500.
The Young Territory Author Awards Variety NT Runner-up Award $250.
The School Entry winner receives $500 for the school.
The Children’s Book Council NT Wow Award winner receives $200.
The Bookshop Darwin, Darwin Regional Award $100.
Regional area winners receive a $50 prize.
16 to 18 Age Category winner receives a one-year subscription to Voiceworks Magazine
Rest of the Age Category winners receive $50 voucher for The Bookshop Darwin.
Highly Commended in each age category, receive a $30 voucher for The Bookshop Darwin.
Encouragement Awards in each age category, receive a $20 voucher for The Bookshop Darwin.

Entries are considered in all categories they are eligible for. The categories include:

8 years and under - all single entries in this age bracket are eligible
9-12 years - all single entries in this age bracket are eligible
13-15 years - all single entries in this age bracket are eligible
16-18 years - all single entries in this age bracket are eligible
Regional areas - all entries received (school and single) in an NT region are eligible
School Entries - all entries received from schools are eligible
CBCA of Australia N.T. WOW award – all single entries are eligible
Young Territory Author of the year - all single entries are eligible

Entry specifications:

An entry must be in a book format and contain:

A front and back cover.
A title page stating: the name of the book, the names of the author/s, and an acknowledgement of an illustrator or other persons who have contributed to the book.
Page numbers must be on each page.
Maximum size online 20MB.
The book should be well bound (loose papers or paper clipping may not be acceptable), written by hand or typed text.
Final, submitted work must be human-created and have disclosed any use of AI.

Grab your pen and let your imagination run wild, it's time to create a winning book!

If you are entering a hard copy version of your book, click here YTAA entry form.

If you are entering a book online, click here YTAA online entry.

Promotional poster, click here YTAA promotional poster.

YTAA Judges

Young Territory Author Awards Judges 2026

Lyrella Couzens

Lyrella Couzens is the Weekend Presenter for 105.7 ABC Darwin. Lyrella loves sharing Territorians stories. She is a great supporter of young people and encouraging their creativity.

Kalina Zarzycka- Kusiak

Kalina is an avid reader and a former proofreader, currently working for City of Darwin in the learning and development space. Kalina loves sharing the passion for reading books and stories with her children. What she appreciates the most as a reader is a writer’s ability to use succinct but powerful language.

Ida Fjelldal

Ida Fjelldal is a Workforce and Skills Officer at the Industry Skills Advisory Council Northern Territory (ISACNT), an independent not-for-profit organisation dedicated to strengthening the Northern Territory's workforce through workforce development, supporting training package development, promoting vocational education and training and providing advice and intelligence. Her portfolio includes early childhood education and care, human services, health, aged care, disability, and sport & recreation.

Geoff Medhurst

Hi I'm Geoff, a UK writer of over ten years that has been very kindly accepted into Darwin's writing community. I'm a judge for fringe festival here, as well as a creater of novels and short stories. I've also been involved in workshopping plays that you may have seen in Darwin or across Australia!

Poppy Yayakos

Poppy Yayakos is a teacher, published children’s author, and literacy advocate dedicated to inspiring a lifelong love of reading. Through her books, school initiatives, community partnerships, and parent education, she champions equitable access to literacy and works to empower children and families through the transformative power of stories.

Raelke Grimmer

Raelke Grimmer is a writer, linguist and analogue photographer. Her debut young adult novel White Noise (UWA Publishing, 2024) was the winner of the 2026 IBBY Australia Ena Noël Award, shortlisted for the 2025 Readings Prize for Young Adult Fiction, and selected as a Notable in the Young Adult category in the 2025 CBCA Awards. Raelke is the Dean, Academy of the Arts, at Charles Darwin University.

Winners

Young Territory Author Awards Winners 2026

2026 Overall Winner

Raeesa Hasan (14 years old)

Book: A Starcatcher’s Rebirth

“Raeesa, what a beautifully crafted story. You enthralled and delighted us with the way you crafted the narrative with vivid language that brought to life the main character and the setting. Your writing lured us in and kept us turning each page, eager to read what would happen next. The accompanying illustrations are stunning and capture the story’s tone, adding additional layers of meaning to the narrative.”

Variety NT YTAA Runner Up Award

Marlah Scobie-Webb (17 years old)

Book: A Collection of Poems: Still the World Moves on.

“Still, the world moves on – some would say. And yet, having read your collection of poems, we see the world as the same, but different. Your collection was… otherworldly.
Marlah, your poems – so mature, so thoughtfully arranged in chapters in a way that deepened our understanding of your message and written in a myriad of styles and paces – took us on an emotional and captivating journey through your experiences and reflections. So personal, yet so universal. It has been a privilege to hear your voice and witness your mastery of language and storytelling. Thank you a thousand times for promoting poetry through your remarkable talent.
Your ability to express so much with so little, shifting the pace and mood throughout, made us feel as though we were watching you grow from one poem to the next, one chapter to the next. What a treat! Keep writing, keep exploring – we want to hear more from you. Oh yes, we do.”

Children's Book Council of Australia NT Branch WOW Award (2 Winners)

Rehman Rehman (10 years old)

Book: The Phonenix Hero

“What a magical story! How spectacularly illustrated! Rehman, your imagination is a force to be reckoned with. Expressed through words and a unique storyline and brought to life through drawings so dynamic and intricate that we felt as if the pages were moving on their own, with the illustrations carrying the words like a river, your story offered an original portrayal of human behaviour, which can take a dark turn, especially when prejudice is shared by a group. Yet your hopeful ending reminded us that kindness and empathy can prevail, even when sparked by one individual or a small, seemingly insignificant group. Thank you!”

Bonnisha Winetou (11 years old)

Book: I Love Wearing My Hijab

“What a delight your story is! Thank you so much for teaching us about your Hijab and what it means to you. We learnt a lot about what a hijab is, why you wear it and how it makes you feel. We also really loved your drawings – they were fantastic! You are a creative storyteller and an artist! Go you!”

School Winners

Year 1 & 2 Mr Dan’s Class (6 to 8 years old) School: Nakara Primary School

Book: Jerry’s Adventures

“Miss Dan’s Class, we were so impressed by your beautiful illustrations and the wonderful teamwork that went into creating Jerry’s Adventure! We loved how you worked together to develop different chapters and explored the elements of narrative writing to bring your story to life. Your creativity, collaboration and thoughtful storytelling really stood out to the judges. What a fantastic achievement by the whole class, well done!”

8 and under

Winner: Okith Sejan Gunawardana (8 years old)

Book: Bruce My Best Friend

“Okith, we were so impressed by Bruce My Best Friend! Your illustrations were absolutely wonderful, and your lovely storyline about Bruce the dog really stood out to us. The way you wrote your story, shared such a beautiful message, and presented your work made it extra special. A heartwarming story that truly captured our attention, well done!”

Highly Commended: Nicoletta Thorbjornsen in collaboration with Sebastian and Ignatius Thorbjornsen

Book: “Hello Mr Broccoli, I’m going to eat you Today!”

Encouragement Award: Mila Forsterling

Book: Safe Places

9 to 12

Winner: Ojasvi Agrawal (12 years old)

Book: A Name They Forgot

“The Name They Forgot, honestly, this story made us really sad, which proves just how much of an incredible storyteller you are. The first-person narrative, describing the experience of being forgotten. We thought the story really got to the heart of issues of loneliness, isolation and the importance of being seen - an extremely creative and interesting story – We loved it”

Highly Commended: Angela Koh (11 years old)

Book: The Light of Mythalis

Encouragement Award: Zoe Forsterling (10 years old)

Book: Five Kids Five Disasters

13 to 15

Winner: Florence Mbouti (13 years old)

Book: Behind the Windowpanes

“Florence, your story about chosen family and the many different shapes a family can take is refreshing and wonderful! The storyline kept me and the other judges interested the whole way through, and we did not see the magic window coming. It was so well incorporated, and such a creative way to add something special to the story. Your story was a joy to read, and a lovely reminder that family can look different for everyone, but love is what holds it together. Great work, Florence!”

Highly Commended: Faye Yik

Book: Torn in Two: How Sweet Does Revenge Taste?

Encouragement Award: Chloe Prosser

Book: They Were

16 to 18

Winner: Marlah Scobie-Webb (17 years old)

Book: Roots in Strange Places

“Marlah, your book is so cleverly and thoughtfully structured. You drew us in with the unique way you carried the theme through each section, surprising and delighting us with each twist and turn. The way you play with language delights and surprises at every turn!”

Highly Commended: Lochlan Hillary Illustrated by Russell

Book: Stars and Shadows

Regional Winners

The Bookshop Darwin Darwin Regional Award

Winner: Chloe Koh (7 years old)

Book: Maybe it’s a Donut

“Chloe, your book was an absolute favourite of the judges! From the fun drawings that complemented the storytelling so well, to the imaginative ideas that were a joy to read, you did everything right. Now every time we see a donut, we’re going to wonder about all the things it could be!”

Alice Springs: Acacia Hill School (8 to 9 Years old) Andy Peterson, Peter Renkaraka, Leethan Turner and Jordan Wishart

Book: Jax and Kevin’s Ocean Journey

“Andy, Peter, Leethan and Jordan, what a captivating adventure you took us on! Your interesting illustrations really caught our eye, and we loved how you incorporated your words into the artwork to bring your story to life. The ending was especially lovely, reminding us that sometimes we need to look back and realise what a wonderful day we’ve had. A fantastic story full of creativity and adventure, well done!”

Katherine: Piper Pfenning (7 Years old)

Book: A Walk at the Gorge

“Piper, what a beautiful retelling of a lovely time in Katherine! Your illustrations were especially eye-catching and truly brought your story to life, making us feel as though we were right there alongside you. We loved seeing this special memory captured so creatively, what a wonderful little adventure to share with us!”

Litchfield: Green Group – Ms Andrew (8 to 12 years old) Berry Springs Primary School

Book: A World of Dreams and Adventures

“Well done team! This book is beautiful to look at with its colourful artwork covering every corner of the pages. It was so lovely to read about each characters adventures in a different place and made us feel like we were right there on a journey with them.”

Palmerston: Saanvi Shapkota (8 Years old)

Book: Our Words, Our Worlds

“Saanvi, from the very first look at the front page, you had our attention. All the elements in your book of poems were intentional, and the structure remained consistent throughout. Your meticulous drawings reflected the title and were sneak peeks of the more detailed illustrations next to each poem that followed. Your poems told a moving story, revealing, in a concise but powerful way and with a calm, almost whispered rhythm, the wide range of experiences and perspectives, reminding us that, in this one world of ours, so many other worlds coexist – yet we all share the need for safety, love and kindness. Thank you for taking us on this journey and giving voice to so many.”

East Arnhem: Adam Ahimaz (9 Years old)

Book: The Origin of Hiccups

“Adam, your book blew us away! It was a joy to read The Origin of Hiccups and find how hiccups came to be! Your artwork really jumps out with the colour and clean quality, and the story is fun, funny and so wonderful. We’ll always remember to give water to the frog inside!”

Young Territory Author Awards Winners 2025

2025 Overall Winner

Faye Yik

Book: A PRINCE AND A PRINCESS AGAINST THE WORLD

“Faye, your novel A Prince and a Princess Against the World is absolutely next-level. The world-building is so intricate, we felt like we could step right into it, and maybe even get lost within! You made us genuinely care about the characters; We wanted to protect them. It’s ambitious, bold, and beautifully written. We kept wondering how you managed to weave all those threads together so seamlessly. You’ve created something truly special."

Variety NT YTAA Runner Up Award

Marlah Scobie-Webb

Book: BEHIND HANDS THAT HURT

“Marlah, your story Behind Hands That Hurt drew us in from the very first page, it’s incredibly engaging, and we couldn’t put it down! You’ve crafted a narrative that keeps the reader hooked, with imagination and emotion woven through every line. It’s beautifully expressed and thoughtfully written. Truly, a powerful piece of work, well done!"

School Winner

Milkwood Steiner

Matisse Gotts & Bridget Wang

Book: THE DISASTER

“What an amazing NT tale, and you’ve even included a croc! The artwork was fantastic, and together with the words, it really brought the story to life. Matisse and Bridget, you’ve beautifully captured the spirit of the Northern Territory. The characters, Anna and James, and their adventures felt so believable, and the message about being croc-wise is such an important one for us here in the Territory. Congratulations on your book The Disaster! You’ve done a fantastic job!”

Children's Book Council of Australia NT Wow Award

Esther Alice Manuel

Book: DARWIN DELICIOUS DELIGHT

“Oh my gosh – what a cracker!! Darwin Delicious Delight is exactly as the title suggests – a rollicking slimy green and yet tasteful lick of life here in Darwin. Well done to you Esther – your descriptions were a recipe of juicy delight – and if the rest of you are scratching your heads wondering why the WOW – you will have to head into the Library to find out how Esther told a yummy story using food and friends to make you laugh and also make you hungry – well done Esther – We loved it.”

8 and under

Winner: Okith Sejan Gunawardana

Book: THE AMAZING ROCKET SHIP ADVENTURE...

“Okith, your book took us on a journey to the stars and back, such a beautiful reminder of how important it is to feel connected to our galaxy. We absolutely loved the pictures and the imagination you brought to this story. It’s wonderful to dream and travel through those dreams. Well done on your intergalactic book “My Amazing Rocket Ship Adventure…” a truly stellar creation!”

Highly Commended: Sebastian and Nicoletta Thorbjornsen

Book: STRAW-BOY AND SEBASTIAN'S BACK-YARD ADVENTURE!

Encouragement Award: Angela Oriowo

Book: WHISKERS OF DOOM

9 to 12

Winner: Saanvi Roopan

Book: I CAN HEAR YOU: A SUSPENSE DIARY

“Saanvi, your clever diary-format mystery was absolutely thrilling! With an unforgettable main character, cryptic notes, fries, and just the right amount of chaos, you’ve created a story that’s witty, wild, and impossible to put down. Well done!”

Highly Commended: Thanigaiyan Kugappiriyan

Book: I'M NOT FAST ENOUGH YET BUT I WILL BE...

Encouragement Award: Harvey Sciglitano

Book: BOOMERANG FOOD!

13 to 15

Winner: Aiden Hoult

Book: BENEATH THE SURFACE

“Aiden – we may never wet a line again – What we loved about your story was that you immersed us into the mangroves, the bity midges, the mystery sounds and scary possibility of what lies beneath … We loved this story as well bc at one point we forgot to breathe and then we were gasping for air. Great work Aiden.”

Highly Commended: Amy Devlin-Aylott

Book: CHASING SHADOWS

Encouragement Award: Zaeem Jahan

Book: SHOOTING STAR

16 to 18

Winner: Sarina Quadri

Book: WHO STOLE THE THESIS

“Sarina, your book Who Stole the Thesis is such a clever and captivating read! From the very first chapter, we were hooked, trying to piece together the mystery right alongside your characters. You’ve created a story that’s not only engaging but also brilliantly imagined and expressed. It’s sharp, funny, and full of intrigue. Honestly, we couldn’t stop turning the pages. Amazing work!”

Highly Commended: Zoe Jo Francis

Book: SIX O'CLOCK UPDATES

Encouragement Award: Sylvia Harkin

Book: PAWS

Regional Winners

The Bookshop Darwin Darwin Regional Award

Winner: Angela Koh

Book: A WORLD WITHOUT IMAGINATION

“Angela I think your story – a world without imagination was really the feeling of anxiety every single teenager in the WORLD would feel if suddenly there was no internet. The endless possibilities of just how devastating that is for people who have never experienced life without the internet – you nailed it – the positive of course is what happens next .. ah …. What would happen next all you young people with your eyes almost falling out of your head right now … very imaginative Angela – and we loved your drawings too.”

Alice Springs: Emma Chicatun

Book: THE LETTER K

Katherine: Lara Venter

Book: THE UGLY TOAD AND THE SPIKY ECHIDNA

Litchfield: Sebastian and Nicoletta Thorbjornsen

Book: STRAW-BOY AND SEBASTIAN'S BACK-YARD ADVENTURE!

Palmerston: Saanvi Shapkota

Book: THE DAY I BROUGHT MY LITTLE BROTHER HOME

East Arnhem: Cassidy Boja

Book: ONE DAY

Past Winners

Megan Jacobson - 1992 Young Territory Author winner

Sasha Beekman - Young Territory Author Awards -16 to 18 Age Category winner 2012 & 2013

Previous Young Territory Authors of the Year

2025 Faye Yik 2024 Amy Devlin-Aylott
2023 Liora Devlin-Aylott
2022 Freya Galati
2021 Rowan McGrath
2020 Rachel De Kock
2019 Jethro Pollock
2018 Tiger-Lily Clements
2017 Jessica Phelan
2016 Alice Cotter
2015 Sascha Duffy
2014 Irini Melas
2013 Yasna Delo
2012 Shayla Moses
2011 Ella Hardiman & Tjina Stoll
2010 Isabella Hope Tester
2009 Timothy Hansen
2008 Rosanna Cameron
2007 Sophie Philip
2006 Dean Holzwart
2005 Karina Brabham
2004 Lauren Crabbe
2003 Erin Pearce
2002 Amanda Deacon and Penny Cameron
2001 Penny Cameron
2000 Guy Spielman
1999 Jessica Rose
1998 Melanie Robinson
1997 Karen Bryce
1996 David Palmer
1995 Yvonne Medel
1994 Aaron Tucker
1993 Aaron Tucker
1992 Megan Jacobson
1991 Arvin Roach