Students to share story simultaneously

Published on 15 May 2019

Children throughout the Gannawarra will join other youngsters across Australia on 22 May to hear the story of two alpacas with musical aspirations.

Local schools have united with the Gannawarra Library Service to support the Australian Library and Information Association’s National Simultaneous Storytime initiative, which aims to promote the value of reading and literacy.

At 11am on Wednesday, 22 May, children across Australia will read simultaneously Matt Cosgrove’s book Alpacas with Maracas, which tells the story of two alpacas who compete in a talent quest.

“National Simultaneous Storytime is a colourful, vibrant, fun event that aims to promote the value of reading and literacy, using an Australian children's book that explores age-appropriate themes, and addresses key learning areas of the National Curriculum for Foundation to Year 6,” Mayor Lorraine Learmonth said.

“Reading events will be held nationally in libraries, schools, pre-schools, childcare centres, family homes, bookshops and other places.”

Locally, Kerang Primary School students will be reading the book outside the Kerang Court House, whilst those in attendance at the Gannawarra Shire Children’s Centre will also be sharing in the morning’s events at the Murray Street complex.

St Mary’s Primary School, Cohuna students will hold a morning of celebrations from 11.40am, with craft and dance activities to coincide with the reading of Alpacas with Maracas.

Registrations to host a National Simultaneous Storytime are open until Monday, 20 May and can be completed online by visiting www.alia.org.au/nss