The Woollahra Local Writer’s Word Festival is opening its first chapter for 2011, by calling for entries from authors of fiction, non-fiction and poetry living in the Sydney Eastern Suburbs.

Now in its seventh year, the festival is a celebration of the talents of local authors, with book signings, author Q&A sessions and writing seminars presented by Australia’s finest authors and industry professionals.

The 2011 festival will be held at Council Chambers on Saturday 26 November.

Prize money of $500 will be awarded best non-fiction, fiction and poetry works, and will be judged by renowned literary identity, Irina Dunn.

Irina is Director of the Australian Writers Network, and the NSW Writers’ Centre, and Artistic Director of many international writer’s festivals.

Woollahra Mayor Susan Wynne said it was an honour to have Irina onboard.

“Irina is an acclaimed and talented author, and we are delighted that she can be a part of the awards again in 2011,” she said.

“The festival is an opportunity for local authors to showcase their works to a dedicated audience and I encourage any local writer, established or new, to be a part of this exciting event.”

A $20 submission fee applies and entries close on 4 November 2011. To be eligible, work must have been published no more than two years ago, and must not have previously featured in past Woollahra Local Writer’s Word Festivals. Only one application per author will be accepted.

Application forms can be downloaded www.woollahra.nsw.gov.au/news, or by calling Woollahra Library & Information Service on 9391 7100.