BCGS Lishman Library

13/05/2026

Author Visit Sparks Creativity at Lishman Library

The Lishman Library recently had the privilege of hosting award-winning Australian author, performance poet, and educator Joel McKerrow—and what an inspiring experience it was! Known for his popular middle-grade Heist series, as well as his poetry collections and graphic novels, Joel brought energy, creativity, and passion to every moment of his visit.

During his visit, Joel provided structured and accessible insights into the writing process, supporting students in the development of their own short stories. His approach demystified narrative writing, encouraging students to refine their ideas with clarity and confidence.

The session truly came alive as Joel introduced the power and rhythm of poetry. Through his dynamic framework of inspiration, creation, construction, and invitation, students explored new ways to express themselves and crafted their own original poems.

Joel’s visit was a memorable and motivating experience, leaving students inspired, empowered, and excited to continue their writing journeys.

08/05/2026

On Monday, we’re excited to welcome children’s author, poet and keynote speaker Joel McKerrow to the Lishman Library.

Throughout the day, Joel will be running interactive workshops with our Primary students, exploring the power of poetry and storytelling. Known for his fun, engaging and energetic style, Joel inspires young people to discover creativity, confidence and a love of words.

We can’t wait to host him for what promises to be an inspiring day of learning and imagination!

28/04/2026

The Scholastic Bookclub is back!
This term’s catalogue is bursting at the seams with more than just stories; it’s a portal to a thousand different worlds. Whether your reader is just starting their journey in Kindy—falling in love with oversized picture books and tales of brave puppies—or they are a young teen looking for the next gripping graphic novel or dystopian mystery, there is a seat at the table for everyone.

Don’t forget that our Premier’s Reading Challenge is still in full swing!
Did you get lost in a mystery while lounging in the backyard over the break? Did you travel to a distant galaxy while waiting for the rain to stop? Those holiday reads are golden! Now is the perfect time to jump online and log those titles. Every page turned over the holidays counts toward your goal, and there’s no better feeling than seeing that progress bar climb closer to the finish line.

15/04/2026

📚 Looking Forward to Term 2 at Lishman Library
The buzz in the stacks is palpable – Term 2 is just around the corner, and Lishman Library is gearing up for a season that promises new discoveries, fresh voices, and plenty of page turning excitement. Whether you’re a lifelong reader, a curious newcomer, or a teacher hunting the perfect classroom resource, there’s something this term that will make you want to linger a little longer among the shelves.

Our collection already boasts a treasure trove of novels, picture books, graphic novels, and non fiction, but we’re not stopping there. In the coming weeks we’ll be adding a curated selection of Children’s Book Council of Australia (CBCA) shortlisted titles.

✍️ Author Visits: Meet the Story Makers
One of the highlights of Term 2 will be two author visits that bring the magic of writing straight into our reading rooms.

Joel McKerrow – The Heist Master of Aussie Children’s Fiction
Published by Penguin Random House and Larrikin House, Joel McKerrow is the mastermind behind the wildly popular HEIST series, a blend of daring capers, witty dialogue, and heart warming camaraderie that has captured the imaginations of readers from Perth to the outback. He also pens a graphic novel series that brings his crisp, cinematic storytelling to the page, as well as a stand alone murder mystery that proves he can spin a good yarn in any genre.

Cristy Burne – Science Literate Storyteller
With a background in Biotechnology and Science Communication, Cristy Burne fuses fact and fiction in a way that makes learning feel like adventure. Her debut, Off the Track, was shortlisted for the 2022 West Australian Young Readers’ Book Award (WAYRBA). Since then, titles such as Into the Blue, Beneath the Trees, and To the Lighthouse (all with Fremantle Press) have become staples on classroom shelves.

🎉 National Simultaneous Storytime – 27 May
May 27th will see the nation unite in a single, joyous reading experience: National Simultaneous Storytime. Lishman Library is proud to host the event with Luna Roo: The Kangaroo Baller, written by Adam Jackson and Adrian Lloyd and illustrated by the wonderfully whimsical Jake Minton.

01/04/2026

Grammar Kid Makes Good: Alumna Karys McKewen Shortlisted for the 2026 CBCA Book of the Year Awards for Younger Reader

Karys McKewen, a 2006 graduate and former Knight faction representative, has been shortlisted for the 2026 CBCA Book of the Year Awards for Younger Reader (7-12 years). Karys book “The paperbark Tree Committee” is a delightful, warm and moving story. This recognition highlights the books appeal and impact on young readers, making it a notable contender in the upcoming awards. The CBCA celebrate the best of Australian children’s literature, and Karys work is a testament to quality and diversity of Australian storytelling.

31/03/2026

📚✨ Holiday Borrowing Reminder! ✨📚

Did you know students can borrow from the Library over the school holidays? With only three days left of term, now is the perfect time to stock up on some great reads!

Our Library is open from 8:00am–5:00pm (until 4:00pm on Fridays), including during recess/lunch times, so there’s plenty of opportunity to visit.

We have a fantastic range of books across all genres—there’s something for everyone, even the most reluctant readers. Encourage your child to drop in and find their next favourite book before the holidays begin!

Happy reading! 📖😊

25/03/2026

The Premier's Reading Challenge is back for 2026! 🚀📚
Registrations are now open for students and parents.
The challenge will run for 12 weeks, from Monday 23 March to Friday 12 June.
Register now 👉

The 2024 Premier’s Reading Challenge kicks off on Monday 6 May. Get ready to embark on more adventures and unravel new mysteries through the 2024 challenge.

24/03/2026

"Green leaf, I shall call you Greaf," said Bear, embracing Greaf. And from that moment on, Bear carried Greaf with him everywhere he went.

Bear is all alone until he finds the greenest, most beguiling leaf he has ever seen. A leaf called Greaf.

Bear holds Greaf tight throughout the days and nights that follow. Bear can barely remember a time before Greaf. It is as if things have always been this way. Until one day, they aren’t.

This gentle book is a story of loneliness, grief and loss, but also of the rediscovery of life and lightness. Of course, it is also one of hope. Alongside the signature artwork of Kelly Canby, this is a beautiful way to explain one of life's big lessons to our little ones.

Shortlisted for the 2025 Children's Book of the Year Awards, "A Leaf Called Greaf" is available to borrow at The Lishman Library.

20/03/2026

Over the past couple of weeks, the Lishman Library has been celebrating Australia’s rich cultural diversity in the lead-up to Harmony Day on Saturday, 21 March 2026. Students have taken part by colouring individual handprints, helping to bring to life the message that “Everyone Belongs.”

It has been wonderful to see students gathering around the art table during their breaks, each creating their own unique design. Every handprint reflects the individuality of its creator, and together they form a vibrant display that beautifully represents unity and inclusion.

We are so proud that our school reflects Australia’s multiculturalism and that we can watch our students embody the message of Harmony Day every day.

10/03/2026

Book Club Issue 2 has arrived! Look out for your copy of Book Club coming home in your child's schoolbag!
Did you know Scholastic book club also includes Teen Reads.
The closing date for orders is Friday 16th March.