Author

Carl Merrison, Hakea Hustler

Carl Merrison (Author)

Carl Merrison is a respected Jaru/Kija man from the Halls Creek area who came WA runner up Australian of the Year - Local Hero in 2016. He has worked for over ten years alongside Aboriginal youth as a mentor and coach. Carl was the winner of the black&write! Fellowship in 2020 for his young readers' series Backyard Sports, and his debut picture book, My Deadly Boots, was shortlisted in the Queensland Literary Awards 2023 and the Speech Pathology Book of the Year Awards 2023.

Hakea Hustler (Author)

Hakea Hustler is an experienced teacher who has taught around Australia, including in remote Aboriginal communities. Hakea is committed to Indigenous education with a focus on story as learning and empowerment.

Carl Merrison and Hakea Hustler's first book, Black Cockatoo (Magabala Books), won Honour book in the CBCA Young Reader category.

Jade Goodwin (Illustrator)

Jade Goodwin is a First Nations illustrator based in Australia. Jade's creative journey began at an early age in her grandparents' screen printing studio, where she would spend an endless amount of time crafting anything she could from studio supplies. Her passion for creativity and illustration grew over time, eventually leading to a successful career in the children's publishing industry. Building on her debut publishing contract in 2021, Jade has expanded her portfolio by signing contracts for another 21 books. Jade loves bringing imagination to life through her sweet and bright illustrations and hopes to inspire children and adults alike.