The Dorothea Mackellar Memorial Society wish to congratulate all the students that entered this years Dorothea Mackellar Poetry Competition. We received nearly 8,000 poems from over 5,500 students.

This year’s optional theme, “The Traveller,” sparked a whirlwind of imagination across all age groups, conjuring visions as grand as hot air balloons and as humble as a snail’s journey.

The 2026 digital presentation includes messages from:

• Welcome for Country performed by the Lahni Natty from Gunnedah

• Special guest speaker and patron, Heather Ewart

• Federal Minister for Education, Hon Jason Clare MP

• Jackie Hosking – Lower Primary Section Judge

• Kristin Martin –  Upper Primary Section Judge

• Joel McKerrow – Secondary Section Judge

The trophies were designed and created by local Gunnedah artist – Kristie Farquhar.

We also thank all the teachers, students and parents who entered this years competition, the poems have been inspirational.

We look forward to seeing next year’s entries!

For the list of shortlisted, highly commended and commended poems, please scroll down to the bottom of the page.