Writers on the Reef Residency ($1,200 and more)
Writers on the Reef Residency 2026: Applications Open for Australian Writers
The Writers on the Reef Residency 2026, hosted by the Roderick Centre for Australian Literature and Creative Writing at James Cook University, is now accepting applications from Australian writers seeking an inspiring environment to develop their creative work.
This competitive residency offers writers the opportunity to spend a week immersed in the stunning natural surroundings of Magnetic Island, part of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area, while focusing on their writing projects.
About the Writers on the Reef Residency
The residency is open to published and emerging Australian writers across all genres who are currently working on a creative project. For the 2026 program, the centre is especially interested in writing that engages with environmental or place-based themes, including:
- Nature writing
- Conservation and sustainability
- Oceans and island ecosystems
- Beaches and Sea Country
- Environmental science
- Island communities and histories
They are particularly encouraging people to submit projects that resonate with the unique natural, social, or cultural landscape of Magnetic Island.
Residency Dates and Location
The 2026 residency will take place 7–13 September 2026.
Four writers will stay at the waterfront Villa Kembali in Horseshoe Bay, Magnetic Island.
Located just eight kilometres off the coast of Townsville, Magnetic Island has spectacular beaches, walking trails, and dry tropics national park landscapes. Writers can easily reach the island via ferry from Townsville’s Breakwater Ferry Terminal.
What Participants Can Expect
The Writers on the Reef Residency is a mostly self-directed creative retreat in a supportive environment. Participants will receive:
- Private room accommodation with shared facilities
- Daily breakfast and lunch provisions
- Dinner each evening (a mix of catered and restaurant meals)
- Access to walking trails, beaches, and island landscapes
- Opportunities to engage with local scientists whose research may inform participants’ projects
- Support from residency hosts Dr Victoria Kuttainen and Dr Nicole Crowe
Participants will also receive flights within Australia and a stipend of $1,300 to support their residency.
Expectations for Residents
Participants in the program will:
- Participate in an online workshop or reading event connected to the residency
- Acknowledge support from James Cook University, the Roderick Centre, and the Copyright Agency’s Cultural Fund in any work resulting from the residency
- Take part in interviews or media opportunities related to the program
- Follow accommodation protocols and maintain a respectful shared environment
Eligibility Requirements for the Writers on the Reef Residency
Writers who participated in the 2022, 2024, or 2025 Writers on the Reef residencies are not eligible to apply for the 2026 program.
Otherwise, the residency is open to emerging and established writers based in Australia working in any genre.
How to Apply
Applicants must submit the following materials:
- A CV including published works and publishers
- A ten-page writing sample (current or previous work)
- A short project proposal describing what you will work on during the residency
- A statement explaining why the residency would benefit your work
Applications must be submitted by March 17, 2026.
Materials should be emailed to RCALC@jcu.edu.au with the subject line:
Application: Writers on the Reef
Applicants will be notified of outcomes by April 8, 2026.
Learn More
For additional details about the residency and other events, visit the Roderick Centre News and Events page.
