Given the different backgrounds of the judges, the shortlist from each judge was surprisingly
similar. Still, it proved a difficult task to select the winners from such a strong and
close competition.
We looked for consistent presentation with an ending that closes the poem; sound structure;
coherent work that is appealing when read aloud; poems that were surprising and original.
The best pieces left us without doubt as to how we were affected.
Ninety-three entries were presented this year. Most entries were well-written examples of
free or rhymed verse. Some pieces were let down by moments of obscurity or clichés;
endings that failed to complete the work; imperfect rhyme or meter; spelling errors [EG:
to/too, its/it’s]; language or ideas that failed to engage the reader.
First Prize
Entry no. 89. Delivery by Janeen Samuel [Vic]
A strongly affecting, quite disturbing work that is beautifully structured and powerful in
its succinctness. This entry has a vivid, unsentimental voice throughout – ostensibly
didactic and analytical – but particularly stirring.
Second Prize
Entry no. 6. The Post War Cookery Book (1946) by Carmel Williams [Vic]
An evocative and rhythmic entry that was enchanting when read aloud. This poem, too, has
a strong voice and a sense of place. The poet sustains intrigue and interest throughout
a longer work and brings it to a clever, satisfying close.
HIGHLY COMMENDED [In numerical order]
Entry no. 24. This Earth by Mark Betheras [Vic]
A lyrically visual, very cohesive free verse entry. This poem is beautifully structured;
almost a series of miniature landscapes with a turning point that builds to a poignant ending.
Entry no. 57. Pink Crepe Hands by Marlene Marburg [Vic]
Illuminated by a strong sense of love and place, this reflective poem has a rich sense
of colour and texture which makes for a visual journey through the small but
significant moments of suburban life.
Entry no. 85. Jumping the Rattler by David Campbell [Vic]
A flawlessly crafted traditional verse poem. The poet skilfully uses rhyming couplets to
create an interesting and colourful narrative. An impressive example of its genre.
***
Our thanks to the YCLC for asking us to judge the competition. It has been a difficult
but enjoyable task. Other entries making up the final shortlist of ten were: a gasp of
life; in his memory; The Mist of Years; Preserving Perfectly; Red.
Glenn Watson & Gavin Austin
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