Laureate Leigh Hobbs brings stories to life at Stella Maris

Stella Maris Catholic School was chosen as one of four schools across Australia to host a celebrated author during the inaugural Australian Children’s Laureate Week.

On Wednesday 30 July 2025 staff and students welcomed beloved Australian author and illustrator Leigh Hobbs to the School.

Photo Caption: Leigh Hobbs shares a moment with students during his visit to Stella Maris Catholic School

As the creator of iconic Australian characters such as Old Tom, Horrible Harriet, and Mr Chicken, Leigh’s visit to Stella Maris was part of a new national initiative designed to promote reading and storytelling in regional communities.

The only Tasmanian site participating in this event, the community welcomed students from three surrounding schools to their school hall to meet Leigh.

Leigh captivated the students with his warmth, humour, and storytelling magic.

His presentation wove together personal anecdotes, live illustrations, and heartfelt encouragement, inspiring students to explore their own imaginations and take pride in their creativity.

One of the most memorable scenes of the day was students proudly showing off their drawings and stories, many echoing the quirky charm of Leigh’s beloved characters—a true celebration of creativity sparked by authentic inspiration.

Library Technician Tanya Boon—who coordinated and hosted the event—reflected on its deep impact.

“There was a wonderful sense of connection,” she said. “The students were fully engaged, and it was beautiful to see their enthusiasm in the artwork they created after being inspired by Leigh.”

What made the day especially memorable were the small, thoughtful gestures that went beyond the formal presentation.

Leigh took time to personally connect with students, pausing to sign and dedicate character postcards for individuals, sharing smiles and kind words that lit up young faces.

A powerful moment that perfectly captured the generous spirit of Leigh’s visit was the special message he inscribed for the Grade 6 students of Stella Maris.

While Stella Maris played host to this magical event in Tasmania, the school’s participation was part of a broader national effort to address declining literacy rates across Australia, particularly in regional areas.

During the week, other current and former Australian Children’s Laureates—Sally Rippin, Gabrielle Wang, and Ursula Dubosarsky—visited schools in Darwin, Kewdale, and Whyalla.

As part of an initiative led by Australian Children’s Laureate Foundation and the Australian School Library Association, these visits help to ensure children in remote and regional locations have meaningful access to literature and its creators.

Photos courtesy of Tanya Boon