ELEMENTS of Byron Resort is thrilled to announce the winners of the 2015 A Wandering Tale short story competition.

Held during the Byron Bay Writers Festival, the competition shared a 1500-word story by celebrated local author Lisa Walker.

Set on site at Elements of Byron amidst sand dunes, lakes and rainforest, Ms Walker's heartfelt and powerful story required an ending of up to 500 words.

More than 200 people signed up to take part in the competition, making the most of chill-out zones designed to provide a sense of the story.

Of these, 30 final entries were submitted.

Byron Shire resident Kate Veitch was awarded the major prize.

The author of two books, Listen and Trust, exploring the complexities (or tortures) of modern family life, Ms Veitch has won a five-night stay at Elements of Byron including pampering, dining and tours.

"I don't usually enter contests but this one was special," she said.

"The competition set-up at the Writers' Festival was inspiring - the way the story was presented physically on hand-written boards that led you through this beautiful site right to the oceans' edge.

"And the story itself, that we were being asked to write the ending to, was so multi-layered, warm and enticing.

""We will take the opportunity to enjoy the prize

during my partner's very

significant birthday next year.

"The competition is a sign of great things for the future collaboration between the Writers' Festival and Elements of Byron."

Candida Baker, another local writer and former Byron Bay Writers' Festival director, was the Peoples' Choice Award winner and will receive a three-night stay at Elements of Byron and a full pass to the 2016 Byron Bay Writers Festival.

Ms Walker said: "All the entries were of a really high standard.

"Thankfully I received them numbered rather than named so I didn't have to worry about being impartial.

"There were some interesting themes, including Migaloo the white whale and different Arakwal themes".

A Wandering Tale will form an integral part of the 2016 Byron Bay Writers Festival.

Elements of Byron general manager Leon Pink said: "We have received so much wonderful feedback.

"So of course we will do it again," Mr Pink said.