Bengalla Mining Company has helped to foster children’s love of reading and creativity in the Upper Hunter, sponsoring a visit by author and illustrator Sami Bayly to a number of schools in the region.
Schools across Muswellbrook, Aberdeen, Denman and Scone were treated to the visit from Newcastle-based author and illustrator Sami Bayly.
Sami is an illustrator of all things weird and wonderful and has published six books, four are part of her Illustrated Encyclopedia series of Dangerous Animals, Peculiar Pairs, Ugly Animals and Extinct Animals.
The Upper Hunter Teacher Librarian Group organised for Sami to visit all the schools in their area, thanks to a grant from Bengalla Mining Company.
Lisa Wilson, Teacher Librarian at St James’ Primary School said they put the proposal forward to Bengalla and were incredibly excited to be approved and welcome Sami to the region.
“Sami was just amazing.
“We decided on Sami because we thought even for high schools, she could target the English and art students.
“It was extremely beneficial, for the development of students’ artistic skills, and to encourage students to read Sami’s books. It fosters a love of reading and the development of students’ literacy skills. Throughout her workshops, Sami taught the students how to draw her creatures. The whole experience fostered the childrens’ curiosity and the wonders of the animal world. It was such a valuable learning experience.
“It’s wonderful for us, as a group, to be able to provide this opportunity for the schools, particularly in rural areas, where students don’t always have access to such worthwhile experiences.
“Sometimes authors or illustrators present at the local library, but transportation to participate in these events becomes an issue. It’s much easier to get the author or illustrator to come to us.
“We’re so grateful to Bengalla and can’t thank them enough for their very generous sponsorship.”
Fiona Hartin, Bengalla’s Community Relations Specialist said from everything she’s heard, Sami’s visit was priceless.
“We had so much feedback from our employees telling us how engaging it was for the students, we’re really lucky to have been able to be involved with it.
“It was hands on and different at every school. The kids loved it. There is still very much a place for paper books in your hand.”
Bengalla’s General Manager Cam Halfpenny is grateful they can be a part of so many wonderful community ventures.
“There are 128 different groups that engage with us whether it’s financially or in kind.
“We feel blessed that we can engage with the community so much. There’s nothing special about Bengalla, we’re just normal people like everyone else and if we can help we can.”
