A Celebration of 80 Years of the Book Awards
The Children's Book Council of Australia (CBCA) SA Branch is excited to announce a wonderful lineup of events in 2026, celebrating 80 years of the Children's Book Awards in Australia.
From July through August, the Travelling Exhibition — 80 Years of The Children's Book Awards in Australia will visit Unley Library, Burnside Library, Mawson Lakes Library, and Tea Tree Gully Library. The celebration continues with a special event at the State Library of South Australia on Saturday 29 August — a not-to-be-missed occasion for book lovers of all ages.
Keep an eye on our social media pages for more information!
Symphony of Stories 2026 Book Week Dinner
All CBCA SA members, supporters and friends are invited to the 2026 Book Week Dinner celebrating the 80th Year of the CBCA Awards.
This year's special celebration is being held on Friday 14 August at the Kent Town Hotel and we have a musical extravaganza for guests.
CBCA SA Salisbury Reader's Festival
Are you teaching in the Salisbury Council area and your school is a 2026 member of the CBCA SA?
Do not miss this FREE opportunity for your students.
As part of the 80th Year of the CBCA Awards celebrations, and in partnership with Salisbury Council and Mawson Lakes Library, CBCA SA is inviting low socio-economic schools in the Salisbury Council area to attend an exciting, interactive event featuring South Australian authors and illustrators on Thursday July 30 2026.
When: Thursday July 30 2026
Where: Mawson Lakes Public Library
Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
What to bring: Recess, lunch, name badges, something to write and draw on plus pencils, but most importantly bring a sense of adventure!
The CBCA SA Reader's Festival will include:
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Writing Workshops
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Live Drawing & Storytelling
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Story Snorts Interactive Performances
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Story Time Sessions for Younger Readers
PLUS:
Transport Provided: Free buses will collect and return students and staff.
Goodie Bags: Every student attending will receive a special gift on the day!
Sign your school up before Friday June 12 and you will be in the running to receive a collection of DANZ (Diversity in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand) books.
PLUS All participating teachers will receive the beautiful 2026 CBCA Notebook as a gift.
HOW TO REGISTER
Places are limited – email us now to secure a spot!
Email us at info@cbcasabranch.com with the following by 12 June 2026:
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School Name:
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Contact Person:
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Email & Mobile:
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Number of Students Attending (max 30):
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Permission for students/staff to be photographed (Yes/No):
Your school will need to be a CBCA SA member at the time of the festival, which costs $85. Membership | CBCA SA Branch
Places are strictly limited and priority will be given to CBCA SA school members.
Register now to secure a spot!
The ASLA DANZ Children's Book Award
The ASLA DANZ Children's Book Awards recognise
and champion authentic diverse representation in children's literature. DANZ advocates for stories that reflect the breadth of cultures, identities, and experiences within our communities, ensuring all young people can see themselves in the books they read, while building understanding and empathy. Judged by children, these awards centre the perspectives of young readers and highlight the stories that genuinely resonate with them.
Join us for an evening to discover award-winning new voices in youth literature with guest speakers Kate Foster, author and DANZ founder, and Sonja Brownridge, ASLA Secretary and DANZ Committee Member.
A Conversation with Sean E Avery
Wednesday September 16th
Burnside Library
Sean E. Avery is a Perth-based author-illustrator whose funny, heartwarming picture books and graphic novels have captured the imaginations of children across Australia. Best known for titles such as Ducky the Spy and Frank's Red Hat— winner of the 2023 CBCA Shadow Judges and WAYRBA Picture Book of the Year awards — Sean brings stories to life with warmth and humour.
Join us for an evening with Sean as he shares the story behind his work, his creative process, and his passion for inspiring young readers. Keep an eye on our social media for booking details!