SCBWI Socials Heads to Parramatta

The wonderful SCBWI Australia East NSW creative community gathered for a chinwag and cuppa at Chambers Fine Coffee, Parramatta Square on a beautiful sunny afternoon in late July. It was a fantastic opportunity for members living in Sydney's western suburbs and beyond to join us, as we're making a conscious effort to host social events across Greater Sydney so that everyone has a chance to connect closer to home. Old friends caught up and new faces were welcomed and lots of happy bookish chat took place. It was a wonderful reminder of how valuable it is to connect with fellow writers and illustrators away from our desks.

If you know of a great café or venue in your part of Sydney that would be perfect for a future SCBWI get-together, we'd love to hear from you! Let Lara Porter, our SCBWI social events co-ordinator know by sending her a DM on Instagram @laraporter_illustration and we'll do our best to make it happen.

New PB for Bec Nanayakkara and Kristen Willis

Congratulations to author, Bec Nanayakkara and illustrator, Kristen Willis on the upcoming publication of

Evie’s Spare Love

a hardback PB, published by Woodslane Press

1 August, 2026

Evie loved her goat, Scout, and without him, her love has nowhere to go. The love stays in her heart and aches every time she remembers. Determined to stop the ache, Evie decides to give her love away.

This beautiful, heartwarming story about loss, healing and the power of community can be purchased HERE. It demonstrates how looking outward and showing kindness to others can open doors to friendship, love and support.

New PB for Maria Testa and Warren Bonett

Congratulations to author, Maria Testa and illustrator, Warren Bonett on the upcoming publication of

The Day of Stolen Bicycles

a hardback PB, for readers aged 7-11 years, published by Amicus Ink.

11 August, 2026

Sam usually rides his bike to school, but today it is raining. During silent reading, Sam watches a parade of construction trucks out the classroom window. When Sam realizes his home in the park is being bulldozed, his teacher, Ms. Lee, goes with him to the park to save what they can.

This powerful, moving story of a young homeless boy, highlights the personal impact of being unhoused and the effects of poverty - and can be purchased HERE.