Sweet stories on history headed to local schools

A community-led project to share the rich history of the Beenleigh district through children’s storytelling has been launched.

 

Rotary Club of Beenleigh commissioned local author Karen Tyrrell and illustrator Megan Forward to produce a series of picture books highlighting the area’s unique history.

 

The first book in the Sugar Sweet Stories series, Follow the Sugar Trail, was launched by Rotary Beenleigh President Janee Hong at the Beenleigh Cane Gala Ball in October.

 

Copies of the book will be donated to Year 3 students and schools throughout Division 12 and adjacent areas.

 

Councillor Karen Murphy praised those behind the project, including Rotary Club of Beenleigh, Quota Beenleigh and Soroptimist International Beenleigh, who collectively raised $16,000 from last year’s Beenleigh Cane Parade and Gala Ball.

 

‘The first Sugar Sweet Stories is such a clever and entertaining way to teach young people about the wonderful history of our area,’ she says.

 

The Beenleigh Cane Parade & Gala Ball will return next year with organisers looking to lock in permanent dates on the community calendar.

 

It is proposed the Cane Parade will be the second Saturday in May with the Gala Ball a week later on the third Saturday in May.

 

Follow Rotary Club of Beenleigh on Facebook for further updates.