Literacy News 

Book Week 

 In 2026, the Children’s Book Council of Australia proudly marks the 80th year of the Book of the Year Awards. Since 1946, these awards have recognised the incredible talent and imagination that fuel the books our young readers cherish, and the creators who continue to shape our understanding of childhood, curiosity and compassion through story. 

Our school is celebrating Book Week in Week 7 24th-28th August. Please see the schedule of events. 

Cake Decorating 

This year we will not be having a competition but instead if you would like to create a Book Week inspired cake, feel free to send in your photos and we can add them to our newsletter page/Compass posts.

Author Visit

Chris Collin is an Australian children's author, publisher and presenter based on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast. He is best known for creating the popular Funky Chicken series, which combines lively rhyming stories with Australian wildlife, humour, and positive messages. Writing under his independent publishing label, Funky books, Collin has inspired young readers through his engaging picture books, including Funky Chicken: A Bushy Tale of Crocs and Chooks, which was shortlisted for the 2014 Speech Pathology Australia Book of the Year Awards. In addition to writing, he visits schools and libraries across Australia, where his interactive storytelling, music, and workshops encourage children to develop a love of reading and creativity. Please pay and provide consent for your child to attend this spectacular event. Students are learning his songs/stories as part of their Performing Arts lessons. If you would like to purchase any of his books, please order through this QR code. 

*Please note that books will be distributed after the visit 

Rotary Public Speech Competition

On Wednesday 15th July, two year 6 students, Elina and Giselle represented Doncaster Primary School at the Rotary Public Speech Competition. Elina and Giselle competed against 10 other students from local schools. We are extremely proud of both Elina and Giselle who spoke confidently and eloquently in front of a large, unfamiliar audience. For their efforts, all students received a $50 Bendigo Bank voucher.

Congratulations to Giselle who took out first place, receiving the fame and glory as well as a $300 Bendigo Bank voucher. Giselle will go on to represent the district at the Rotary District Final on 4 November 2026.

Here is what Elina and Giselle had to say about their experience at the Public Speech Competition-

Elina- I competed at the Public Speaking Competition on the 15th of July, which was hosted at Doncaster Secondary College. I remember feeling so nervous as I was about to start my speech. There were six different schools with two students from each school. All 12 students had a great speech. My knees were trembling and my heart was pounding, I tried my best to speak as confidently as I could. I took a deep breath and started my speech. That night was amazing because not only I gave my speech and listened to all the other speeches, but I also got to meet new people from other schools and cheer them on. It was so much fun! I am so proud for getting so far in the public speaking competition and being able to talk in front of so many teachers, parents, students, and judges. 

Giselle- Hello everyone, my name is Giselle and today I will share with you the incredible experience I had. During Week 1, the 15th of July, Elina and I represented Doncaster Primary School in the Rotary Manningham Public Speaking Competition. When we first arrived, the organisers arranged the seats. Thankfully I was last, giving me the perfect opportunity to be prepared. When we were seated I got really nervous and terrified by the judges and the strong competitors competing against me. But then I remembered the effort and hardwork I gave in the past 2 months, realising it doesn't matter if I win or lose as long as I enjoy the stage and have a positive mindset.

After all the competitiors gave their speeches, the host finally called out my name to step on to the stage. Walking to the centre of the stage, I told myself, 'this is the great moment'. While presenting my speech, at first, I could not wait for this to be over but I slowly got used to the 50 people sitting in front of me and enjoyed it. Then all of a sudden it ended, finishing with an applause. Walking back to my seat, I felt relieved and proud of myself by hitting the goal I was aiming for. 

Now the most intimidating part arrived.... all the judges stepped on the stage ready to present the overall winner. At that moment my heart stopped. The host called out 3rd and 2nd place then 1st place, and at the end I WON! I was still shocked by what was happening around me.

Overall that night would always be an unforgettable memory and experience and I can't wait to compete in the next level in November.

Thank you

Diane Meilak and Lillie Ryan

Learning Specialists Literacy