Cunnamulla kids create new book 'Outback Country'

Cunnamulla is a remote town in South West Queensland, around 800km west of Brisbane. The Community in Cunnamulla has been receiving the Indigenous Literacy Foundation’s (ILF) Book Supply packs since 2014. Through the Cunamulla Aboriginal Corporation for Health (CACH), the ILF has grown a strong relationship with the Community over the years. 

Last year, the ILF was lucky enough to select Cunnamulla as a Community to work with on the Indigenous Literacy Day FILM, showcasing how different remote Aboriginal Communities around Australia connect with and stand up for Country. This short film was viewed by over 360,000 students and adults during Indigenous Literacy Day and beyond. 

In April 2025, the ILF was invited back to Cunnamulla to run a book writing and illustrating workshop with children during their school holidays. 

Outback Country was created during a week-long workshop facilitated by the ILF and led by ILF Ambassador Biana Hunt.

Held during the school holidays at CACH, the workshop gave young authors the time, space and encouragement to share their stories - some grounded in reality, others delightfully imaginative. All authors are aged 7 to 12. 

Throughout the week, participants explored diverse storytelling techniques, collaborated on the artwork featured in the book, and were inspired by a special visit from local Elder and celebrated author Herb Wharton. Herb discussed with the children the importance of telling their stories, and inspired them to be brave as the next generation of authors, illustrators and storytellers. Each day of the workshop was brimming with creativity and connection.

By the end of the week, the authors were beaming with pride, eager to show their progress to parents and carers. This book stands as a testament to their voices, spirits, and to the power of storytelling to nourish Community.

On October 29 2025, these young authors will be able to stand up in front of their families, friends and Community and launch this beautiful book - showcasing their dedication to this project. 

“I hope the students understand the incredible importance of what they have achieved, and feel immense pride in themselves. They are such an amazing group of children who have achieved something truly amazing,” says ILF's Publishing Projects Editor, Nea Close-Brown.

Reflecting on this achievement, Allen (Monk) Wharton, a Cunnamulla Community member and grandfather to some of the children in the workshop, stated 

“I would like to highlight the importance of this well-put-together book. This book highlights the significance of literacy and education within our Community.”

"The book itself can serve as a promotional tool to connect generations within the Community - it may spark discussions about experiences, history and values that are crucial in preserving the Community’s history. It may also be used as a tool to encourage other children to engage in reading and writing, fostering a culture of creativity and learning."

"Witnessing the children write this book provided me with a sense of legacy. It signifies the continuation of storytelling tradition and the passing of knowledge to the next generation. To say that I am proud of what the kids achieved would be an understatement. Well done to all involved,” says Allen (Monk) Wharton

The ILF would like to personally thank Tammy Hickey, whose passion for the children of Cunnamulla has led to a strong, long-term, Community-led relationship between the ILF and the Cunnamulla Community. We would also like to thank Monk Wharton, all the staff at CACH and Deadly Choices, and of course the incredible children behind this book. 

Outback Country will transport you into a landscape of red earth and brown river, where trucking, pigging and lore pave the roads. Jump in and buckle up as you walk alongside the authors, seeing all the nooks and crannies of life in Cunnamulla. 

The book offers a sincere and charming glimpse into the world of these kids in a small town in South West Queensland.