Scribblers on the Road event back for second year in a row

Children across the Pilbara have an opportunity to express their love of literature through participation in this year’s Scribblers on the Road event. The event — curated by FORM Building a State of Creativity — aims to celebrate storytelling and empower young people to foster their creativity through exploring all dimensions of fiction composition. The events and workshops will feature Zeno Sworder, the recipient of the 2023 CBCA Picture Book of the Year award, and Brenton E McKenna, WA’s own graphic novel luminary. Joining them are award-winning WA poet and novelist Sally Murphy and Shane McCarthy, who has written for DC and Marvel comics. During their time in the Pilbara, they will hold workshops and presentations, engaging with more than 900 children across more than 50 classrooms spanning 13 regional and/or remote schools. They will also host workshops for adults at South Hedland Public Library, Marble Bar Public Library and Newman Public Library. A highlight of Scribblers on the Road will be a gathering of WA and interstate storytellers and illustrators at the JD Hardie Youth and Community Hub in South Hedland on Saturday, June 8, from 10am to 3pm for the free Scribblers on the Road Family Fun Day. Pilbara-based creatives such as Amelia Blanco, Kelly Howlett, Zach Green, Verity Page, Ivy Chen Zhang, Bobbi Lockyer, Leslie Rigot, Jasmine Huriwai-Kahuroa, Rogelio and Letcha Solo will be part of the event. The Family Fun Day promises an array of free activities for all ages, including on-the-spot storytelling and illustrations, workshops, art and craft sessions, entertainment, prizes and a community BBQ. FORM CEO Tabitha McMullan said she was enthusiastic about Scribblers reaching the Pilbara for a second consecutive year. “Since 2008 it’s been an immense privilege to develop and manage Spinifex Hill Studio on Kariyarra Country,” she said. “This art centre supports the art practices of First Nations artists who live in and visit Hedland and I’m thrilled to see Spinifex Hill artists among the Scribblers on the Road storytellers this year.” FORM Scribblers program lead Justine McGinnis said the event’s mission was to empower children and young people through creative initiatives, enriching their literacy skills, creative thinking and overall well-being. “Taking Scribblers ‘on the road’ to the Pilbara is an exciting opportunity for FORM to strengthen our relationships in the region and provide fun, impactful programming that supports the development of literacy, creative thinking skills and positive well-being.” For program details, visit scribblersfestival.com.au.