As a part of Sunshine Beach State School’s academic talent program, senior students embarked on a literary adventure participating in the ‘Beyond the Book’ Literature Festival held at the University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC).
The event, previously known as ‘Voices on the Coast’, offered students a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of literature and creativity.
The school’s academic talent program caters for a range of children from all year levels through enrichment opportunities such as the literacy festival.
Students who attended the literacy festival were accompanied by the school’s dedicated academic talent teachers, Jane Lethlean and Sarah Price, who said the students delved deep into the heart of storytelling, meeting beloved authors and illustrators who brought words to life.
At the festival, they engaged in interactive workshops, explored the university campus, and envisioned themselves as future scholars.
Year 6 student Isabel, expressed her excitement at meeting Mick Elliot, acclaimed author, TV producer and self-proclaimed mischief maker, whose infectious energy captivated the audience.
Maddy who is a Year 5 student, cherished the chance to glimpse university life, setting her sights on attending UniSC in the future.
Award-winning author Louise Park held the audience spellbound as she shared insights into crafting compelling heroes and villains, drawing from her own family history in her book Last Man Out: A Portrayal of the Gallipoli Evacuation. T
he bravery of John Alexander Park, Louise’s grandfather, who remained behind during the Gallipoli evacuation, left a lasting impression on the young minds.
Sami Bayley, a scientific illustrator, engaged students with her tips on drawing creatures, while Katrina Nannestad encouraged them to unleash their creativity through writing.
Oliver Phommavanh shared humorous anecdotes and writing tips, while Zannii Louise wove ‘story magic’ to inspire budding writers.
Sarah Armstrong, among the esteemed authors present, led students through the intricacies of character creation and research for her latest novel, ‘Big Magic’.
Year 6 student Eliana praised the workshop for its educational value and insights into the writing process.
Sunshine Beach State School’s academic talent teachers emphasised the festival’s role in inspiring a love for reading and writing among students.
The ‘Beyond the Book’ Literary Festival proved to be a transformative experience for Sunshine Beach students involved in the academic talent program, igniting their passion for literature and creativity.
As they returned to school, their hearts and minds brimmed with newfound inspiration, ready to embark on their own literary adventures.
