On the 17th of July, I travelled to Gladstone in Queensland, excited for the warmer climate! Over the course of two years, each Australian Children’s Laureate must visit every state and territory in Australia at least once. At the beginning of my two-year term, I chose to speak with kids in regional areas rather than in capital cities, as they don’t get the same opportunities to meet authors and illustrators face to face. Gladstone was the second last stop of my Follow the Dragon tour.

On my first day in Gladstone, I had three fabulous sessions with Year 5 and Year 3 students. We brainstormed spooky houses and then drew the Chinese mythical creature Qilin.

I also got to catch up with Kat Apel again after so many years at a meet-and- greet gathering at the library. This photo was taken with Robyn Sheahan Bright, my gracious host throughout my stay in Gladstone. Her lovely house made for the most heavenly writing spot!

The next day, I visited a wonderful school on Boyne Island, followed by some sightseeing. I have loved visiting Gladstone and am grateful to all who made this fantastic trip possible.

– Gabi X