After almost two years in the making the Mountain Cattlemen’s Association of Victoria (MCAV) are ready to release their children’s story about bushfire.
To be donated to hundreds of primary schools across the state, the book is set to raise bushfire awareness – and its emotional toll – in a child-friendly format.
“We are really excited about this project,” MCAV president Bruce McCormack said.
“We can’t wait to get it onto the shelves at libraries, schools and kindergartens all across Victoria.”
Copies of the book will be donated to education providers impacted by the 2019/2020 bushfires, with Mr McCormack explaining the story was “educational but realistic”.
“The story is told from the perspective of a young girl who watches her family – who have been on the land for generations – deal with the impact of bushfire.
“There are illustrations picturing dead stock and mental health implications – but ultimately it is a story of family connection, love and the continuation of life.”
To stimulate interest in the book the MCAV ran a ‘Name this Book’ competition, inviting students from across Australia to submit title suggestions.
“It was a really wonderful experience to see the breadth of interest in the project,” Mr McCormack said.
“We had entries from as far away from the Northern Territory, and the winner ended up being a family who do School of the Air in South Australia.”
My Pa, the bushfire and me includes questions for discussion with young readers and a double page spread of bushfire images, contributed by those who lived through the 19/20 fires.
“To say we are proud of the finished product is an understatement,” Mr McCormack said.
“And to be able to give them away to education providers is something really special.”
The book is written by journalist and MCAV office manager Rhyll McCormack, and is illustrated by award-winning artist Timothy Ide – of Tom the Outback Mailman fame.
The book is also available to purchase for $14.95.
For more information, to purchase or to access educational resources, visit mcav.com.au
