Families and local authors gathered at Coogee Beach for a Children’s Story Festival, offering an afternoon of storytelling, art, and writing activities for young readers.
Storytelling Afternoon Engages Local Families
The Children’s Story Festival took place at Coogee Beach Club on 12 October from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., bringing together authors, illustrators, and children from across Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs. Organised by the Eastern Suburbs branch of the Children’s Book Council of Australia (CBCA), the event was designed to encourage creativity and a love of reading among preschool and primary school-aged children.
Activities and Creative Sessions
Attendees joined a range of free activities, including drawing, writing, and craft workshops led by local creators. Visitors also met children’s authors such as Samera Kamaleddine and illustrators like Carla Hoffenberg, who guided interactive sessions designed to spark imagination and inspire storytelling.
Local Authors Join the Celebration
Australian author Susanne Gervay participated in the festival, joining other creators to share stories and creative insights. Earlier in the week, Gervay and Hoffenberg visited La Perouse Public School, engaging students in storytelling and art as part of the broader celebration of children’s literature.
Community Involvement at Coogee Beach
The event was supported by Coogee Beach Club, which hosted the afternoon’s activities, and Harry Hartog Bondi Junction, which provided book sales on-site. The festival formed part of the local spring school holiday program, drawing families and book enthusiasts to the beachside venue for a relaxed and educational experience.
Fostering a Love of Reading
The Children’s Story Festival at Coogee Beach reflected a shared community goal of promoting reading and creativity among young audiences. With the participation of local authors and illustrators, the event highlighted the continuing strength of children’s literature in Sydney’s coastal communities.
Published 13-Oct-2025
