government house open day Australian Story book reading

As usual, Government House Open Day in Yarralumla, is a truly beautiful day out. I took Ella along for my reading of Australian Story: an illustrated timeline - and read the book to the most riveted bunch of tiny tots, which goes to prove - you don't have to be an older child to appreciate the wonder of history.

My visit was in conjunction with the National Library, and fellow NLA authors Susan Hall and Stephanie Owen Reeder were also in attendance to read from their books.

yes, that's right - once upon a time, there was 'nothing' (or perhaps there was, but not as we know it)

NLA bookshop manager Meredith Wright (left) stacks up the impressive NLA titles

the lovely Dr Stephanie Owen Reeder

I was truly amazed at how engaged the children were on this voyage through Australian Story - I think the dinosaur and Sydney Harbour Bridge props worked a treat - as did the mega always-hits - the Captain Cook and Julia Gillard wigs. This little poppet (below) was not in the least bit interested in representing our forefather Captain.

And this little girl was similarly skeptical of my Julia Gillard impersonation - but all in all, they were such a gorgeous bunch of kids.

Government House Open Day is one of Canberra's largest public attractions, in full support of the Smith Family, who make it their mission to help educate disadvantaged children in Australia. This year, Libraries ACT and the National Year of Reading were also represented at the Storytelling marquee.

Well done, everyone, on such an incredible day for such an important cause - and warm thanks to Her Excellency Ms Quentin Bryce AC CVO the Governor-General, for hosting us! (and thank you to Canberra buddy Jennie McClelland for the pics of my reading!)