MEPS Alumni Achievements

Congratulations to Raya Porter

Mayor's Short Story Writing Awards Winner 2025

We’re thrilled to share that Raya Porter, a proud graduate from the Class of 2024, has been named a winner in the prestigious Mayor's Short Story Writing Awards 2025, triumphing over hundreds of applicants from across the Mornington Peninsula. This award celebrates excellence in short fiction, recognising young writers who demonstrate creativity, originality and a strong narrative voice. Raya’s achievement is a testament to her talent, hard work and passion for storytelling. Raya's short story 'What's Left Behind' was inspired by her trip to Indonesia and tells the story of 2 sisters left behind in the abandoned slums of Jakarta after the city’s relocation, relying solely on each other to survive. When a sudden tsunami strikes, they are swept into the chaos, clinging to hope, love and each other as they fight for survival.

We couldn’t be prouder of her remarkable accomplishment – well done, Raya! 

You can read her award-winning story below.

We love hearing about the achievements of our wonderful past MEPS students! If you have any news or milestones to share and celebrate, please get in touch – we’d be thrilled to feature it in our newsletter.