Wendy Binks – Author Visits
How a little emu chick from Fremantle became a classic of Australian Children's Literature
Wendy Binks is a popular author, illustrator, and wildlife artist who visits schools and libraries across Australia throughout the year. Her sessions are hands-on, lively, and genuinely hard to forget – the kind that follow children home and stay there.
Session Details
Because Wendy has written, illustrated, and self-published most of her books, she knows the entire process of creating a picture book – from the tiny germ of an idea to the moment it appears on the shelf. She shares all of it with students, including videos of a book being printed, and real examples of storyboards, roughs, props, and final illustrations.
Throughout the session, Wendy sketches live in front of the class while talking about emus, owls, camouflage, and where story ideas come from. She demonstrates how to draw animals using simple shapes and shows students how to give their animal real character. At the end of the session, every child draws their own animal to take home. Teachers love this part just as much as the kids do.
Practical Information
- Year levels: Pre-Primary to Year 6
- Group size: Up to 100 students per session (similar age groups preferred)
- Session length: 1 hour per session
- Booking format: Full day visits only (3 sessions per day) — this can be shared between two nearby schools or libraries
- Rate: Australian Society of Authors standard rate
- Regional travel: Travel costs may apply for regional areas
What Teachers Say
"The fantastic reports keep flooding in from teachers who have had parents saying to them the amazing impact you had on their kids. One mum burst into tears as she recounted how her son came home motivated to draw and read, which hadn't interested him previously. Reports of many children inspired to draw — and each child experienced such success with you. You enhanced their self-esteem incredibly. The children have had much to say about the printing process and are amazed that only four colours create all the colours needed. They know a lot about emus too! Thank you for an awesome day!"
— Teacher Librarian
Where's Stripey? on British Telly: Shane Jacobson Reads Aloud
A proper treat for any Stripey fan – beloved Aussie actor Shane Jacobson reading Where's Stripey? aloud on CBeebies, the BBC's much-loved kids' programme. Press play, settle in with the little ones, and let Shane do the storytelling.