4 days ago
- Entertainment
- West Australian
Authors inspire senior students with stories of identity, culture and creativity at reading challenge panel
Senior students at Geraldton Senior High School were treated to an inspiring Q&A-style author panel on Thursday as part of the 2025 Premier's Reading Challenge, which has extended its reach to Year 11 and 12 students for the first time.
The event featured renowned Geraldton-born author Holden Sheppard, award-winning graphic novelist Aska and Jayden Boundry — a Noongar language teacher and cultural consultant, didgeridoo player, traditional dancer and storyteller with Ngalak Nidja.
Each shared their own unique creative journeys. Sheppard spoke candidly to the students about his struggles with high school and identity, and how writing became a powerful outlet.
Aska delved into the art of combining words and visuals to tell stories, and spoke of her time as a quantum physicist and how that shaped her into the author she is today.
Boundry reflected on the importance of culture and oral storytelling in his work.
The Premier's Reading Challenge, which had previously been open only to students from kindergarten to Year 10, was expanded this year to include Year 11 and 12 students across WA and encourages students to develop a love of books, reading and improve language and literacy skills.
The panel of exceptional authors and storytellers had a profound effect on Geraldton senior students as they became more engaged as the discussion continued.
The main messaged discussed was that reading and writing are not only a 'nerdy' pastime, but also a powerful tool that can be used for expression, education and culture — something meaningful and personal.
