What better way to celebrate Book Week than with a ‘Symphony of Stories’! This year, our libraries were filled with stories, music, creativity, laughter and plenty of excitement as students and staff came together to celebrate the wonderful world of books.
One of the highlights of our week was a very special visit from acclaimed Australian author and illustrator Gabrielle Wang. Gabrielle shared some of the stories and experiences that have inspired her writing, giving students an insight into how authors turn ideas, memories and experiences into stories. She spoke thoughtfully about racism and reminded students that many of us, or our families, have connections to other countries and cultures. Her message encouraged students to think about our shared experiences and the importance of understanding and celebrating diversity.
Gabrielle also brought her stories to life by showing students how to draw a dragon. Students followed along, creating their own magnificent dragons and having plenty of fun in the process!
Throughout Book Week, students also took part in a variety of competitions and activities in and around the libraries. Some of these activities included making scratch bookmarks, participating in scavenger hunts, dancing at silent discos and looking for their next read at our Book Fair. The Book Week activities provided opportunities for students to get creative, test their knowledge and, most importantly, have fun with books.
Of course, no Book Week celebration would be complete without the much-anticipated Book Week Parade! Students and staff dressed up as their favourite book character or came as a musician, bringing the ‘Symphony of Stories’ theme to life.
Book Week is a wonderful reminder that stories come in many forms. They can be found in books, music, art, dance, memories and in the experiences we share with one another. This year, our libraries became places where all these stories come together to create our own symphony of stories.
A huge thank you to our students, staff, families and everyone who helped make Book Week 2026 such a memorable celebration of reading, imagination and creativity!
Nolene Thiele
Resource Manager – St John's Campus
