Library News

The library has been buzzing with energy this term. On any given day during recess and lunch, the space is alive with activity, from strategic chess battles and friendly card games to students relaxing with friends or getting stuck into a good book. Excitement is also building behind the scenes as we gear up for Book Week in Week 7 of this term. Staff and enthusiastic student helpers are working hard to transform the library with colourful displays and exciting activities to ensure this big event is our most memorable one yet. Keep an eye out for upcoming announcements as we prepare to celebrate the magic of reading together.

Get Ready for Book Week!

Book Week is just around the corner, and we are gearing up for a fantastic celebration of stories, creativity, and reading across our school community. Now is the perfect time for parents and carers to start chatting with students about their favourite book characters and tossing around ideas for our end-of-week dress-up day on Friday 28th August. Whether you are building props from cardboard boxes or pulling together items from around the house, starting the brainstorming early. A gold coin donation is required if you are dressing up.

• Inspiring Author Visit (Monday 24 August): We are thrilled to host acclaimed author Mark Smith on Monday 24th August. He will be speaking with our students about the craft of storytelling, his inspiration, and the journey of bringing characters to life.
• Daily Homegroup Challenges: The fun runs all week long! Students will compete in daily homegroup trivia quizzes and interactive activities designed to test their literary knowledge and spark some friendly competition.

Book of the month (August) 

Darkest Night, Brightest Star  (by Barry Jonsberg)

Darkest Night, Brightest Star by Barry Jonsberg has been shortlisted for the CBCA Children's Book of the Year award for Older Readers. It is a moving and meaningful story which will stay with you long after you have finished it. This book tells the story of Morgan, who has grown up in an environment of toxic masculinity. Morgan's father has high expectations for him to be a star soccer player, but after Morgan is injured, he begins to doubt that soccer is his destiny.  With the help of his friend Gray, Morgan must confront the culture he has been raised to be a part of. Darkest Night, Brightest Star is a stunning book which I think everyone could enjoy. I recommend reading the CBCA Children's Book of the Year Award shortlisted books at the school library as a great way to get ready for Book Week.  Review by Clara (Year 12)

WHS Book Club 

Love a great story and even better conversation? Join our Book Club to share your favourite reads and connect with fellow book lovers in a relaxed, social setting. Head to the library desk today to sign up and help shape the future of our school’s reading community!

Chess Club 

Looking for a way to sharpen your mind, outsmart your friends, and have a blast? We are thrilled to announce the launch of the WHS Chess Club, hosted right here in the library. Whether you are a grandmaster in the making or have never even touched a chessboard, all skill levels are welcome. It’s the perfect place to build your strategy, focus, and friendly competitive spirit. Ready to make your move? Sign-up sheets are available now at the library desk.