The 2025 OutStanding LGBTQIA+ Short Story Competition winners
First Prize
Rebecca Hodges – The Algorithm of Arrival
Bio:
Rebecca Hodges is an Australian lawyer and Certified Practising Accountant working between Melbourne and Papua New Guinea. She writes fiction and poetry that reflect the cultural and natural textures of both places, often drawn to stories that uplift, unsettle, and expand the way we see the world. Her creative work embraces voices that challenge convention – whether through form, theme, or perspective – and celebrates the power of storytelling to affirm identity and inspire authenticity. Rebecca believes that literature can be a force for empathy and change, and she is especially passionate about narratives that make space for those who have long been pushed to the margins. She is married to Andrew and has one tiny cat.
Second Prize
Wyatt Huynh – ‘Appy Endings
Bio:
Hi, I’m Wyatt Huynh from Western Sydney (Cabrogal Country, Dharug Nation). Wyatt isn’t my real name. I’m hiding my identity; in case my raw raunchy storytelling makes me unemployable in the future… and unlovable in my family. Living a double life isn’t as exciting as depicted by Superman… or Hannah Montana. You can find me bombing on stage at the Sydney stand-up open mics (I’m the gay Asian one. Easy to spot). I also write comedy songs that no-one listens to. And if you see me talking to myself on the train, I’m not having a mental breakdown. I’m rehearsing.
Third Prize
Sass J. T. – Alone
Bio:
Sass J. T. has had a passion for reading and writing her entire life, but this will be her first published work. In her free time, she enjoys dancing, singing, board games and enjoying nature with her found family.
The Madeline Shaw Youth Prize
Lara McCormack – Two Thousand and Sixteen
Bio:
Lara McCormack (she/her) is a Brisbane-based writer and editor with degrees in Creative Industries and Public Relations. Her writing explores themes of identity and coming-of-age, drawing on the emotionally impactful experiences of teenagerhood and adolescence.
Youth Runner Up
Emily Patterson – Ready for What
Bio:
Emily Patterson is a Year 12 student who enjoys creative writing outside of the HSC. Next year, she plans to study education at ACU and continue to tell stories into adulthood.
Admin Prize
Kristof Mikes-Liu – A Funny Thing Happened Heading East of the M4
Bio:
Kristof lives with his partner, Brendan, on Gadigal land. He works on Darug, Gundungarra and Wiradjuri land as a public sector psychiatrist with an interest in dialogical practice. His pandemic-inspired return to creative writing has sustained him beyond Covid times.
Highly Commended
Marianna Jans – Are We There Yet?
Bio:
I am a writer and creative currently studying a Bachelor of Criminology. Despite facing significant health challenges, I have reshaped my dreams and career aspirations, I have continued to pursue my passions with determination. My modelling work has been featured in magazines including Nymph and Australian Boudoir Magazine, while my writing has been published multiple times in Whack Magazine. I have a deep passion for storytelling and creativity, and I am committed to exploring new ways to share my voice and perspective.
Lee Robinson – Shall I Tell You Then
Bio:
Born and raised in country NSW, Lee is an out and proud transgender man who enjoys writing fiction with a dry, comical edge that captures the Rainbow experience. A lover of adventure, he brings that same spirit into his storytelling. Lee is an active member of the Dubbo Writers’ Group and has been fortunate to have a number of his short plays performed across Australia, including in Dubbo, Bathurst, Mudgee, and Sydney.
Amber Loomis – A Fleck of Glitter on Her Cheek
Bio:
Amber (they/them) is a trans, genderqueer, bi+ community organiser, parent, and creative. They live on Wallumedegal land with their partner, young baby, and rescue dog. Amber works in community-led research and advocacy and is passionate about stories that create new possibilities.