Ron Gorman has extensive experience in teaching and leading a diversity of schools in WA and Victoria. Ron has also presented nationally, on reading, writing and children’s literature, and has edited and contributed to numerous publications. Ron’s broad, deep interests in the arts has involved him in many organisations related to children, literature and the importance of reading. He is past-Chair and current Board member of the Australian Children’s Laureate Foundation, advocating for Australian authors and illustrators. Ron has also recently been awarded a Doctor of Education by Edith Cowan University for his contributions to the wider education community.

Briony Stewart is the author and illustrator of several award-winning books for children, including Kumiko and the Shadow Catchers, winner of the 2012 Queensland State Literature prize for children’s fiction. Briony lectures on children’s literature at university and conducts talks and workshops with children across Australia. Briony is confident in talking about all aspects of creating children’s books, to any audience and nearly always includes some live-illustration fun in her presentations!