Decoding the Universe
The MARION Science + Storytelling Prize
CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS
The MARION Science + Storytelling Prize invites ACT-based writers of all ages to creatively explore the wonders of science through storytelling. We’re looking for original, imaginative short written works, in essay form, poetry, short stories, or hybrid writing that respond to the 2025 National Science Week theme:
Decoding the Universe – Exploring the unknown with nature’s hidden language.
This theme invites reflection on the ways we understand and interpret the world, from DNA and data to bird calls, star patterns, magnetic fields, fungi networks, and mathematical systems. Writers are encouraged to consider how nature “speaks” and how we, as humans, listen, translate, and create meaning from these hidden systems. Whether you're fascinated by the cosmos, animal behaviours, climate rhythms, or the algorithms behind artificial intelligence, we invite you to respond with creativity, and curiosity.
CATEGORIES
OPEN (18+)
Winner: $400
Runner-up: $200
65+ (for writers aged 65 and over)
Winner: $400
Runner-up: $200
YOUTH (under 18)
Winner: $250
Runner-up: $150
Additional prizes or commendations may be awarded at the judge’s discretion.
We are delighted to announce Olivia Congdon as our judge for the Storytelling and Science Awards.
Olivia Congdon is currently Senior Science Writer for the Australian National University and is a self-confessed nature nerd. She was previously a science communicator with the Australian Academy of Science, and she holds a Graduate Certificate in Science Communication. Olivia’s work has appeared in publications including Australian Geographic, BBC Wildlife magazine, Galah magazine, the ABC, Weekend Birder, and Cosmos magazine.
Key Dates
Submissions open:
Tuesday 8 July 2025Submissions close:
Tuesday 22 July 2025, 11:59pm AESTWinners announced:
During National Science Week (9–17 August 2025) at a public event tbc
Terms + Conditions
Eligibility
Entries must be original works written within the 12 months prior to submission and must respond meaningfully to the 2025 theme: “Decoding the Universe – Exploring the unknown with nature’s hidden language.” Works submitted to other competitions are welcome, provided they have not been previously published, awarded a prize, or are currently under consideration elsewhere.
Open to ACT residents
Entrants must enter the correct category based on age at the time of submission
Youth entries must be submitted with permission from a parent/guardian
Length of Submissions:
Essays, Short Stories, Hybrid Writing: Maximum 1,000 words
Poetry: Maximum 40 lines
There is no minimum length, but entries should be substantial enough to convey a complete idea or narrative.
Judging and Prizes:
Judges’ decisions are final
MARION reserves the right not to award a prize in any category if entries do not meet the required standard
Prizes are not transferable or redeemable for cash beyond the cash prize awarded
Format Requirements:
Typed, in a readable font (e.g. Times New Roman or Arial, 11 or 12 pt)
Submitted as a .doc/.docx or PDF file
Anonymous submission (no name on the document)
Use and Publication Rights:
By entering, participants grant MARION the non-exclusive right to publish their entry online and in promotional materials
Copyright remains with the author
Deadline:
Late entries will not be accepted under any circumstances
Additional Benefits:
Publication of winning and runner-up entries online
Recognition at a public event during National Science Week 2025
Ongoing promotion through MARION and Science Week networks
