The Great Southern Reef

“Despite 70% of us living within 50km of it [the Great Southern Reef], its existence is little known and so this beautifully illustrated, informative book is an essential step in teaching our young students (and hopefully the adults in their lives) not only about its existence and inhabitants but also its importance.” – Barbara Braxton * The Bottom Shelf *“The inspiring imagery leaves plenty of scope for parents to deviate from the ‘educational’ storyline and create their own beachcombing adventure with their children. The story is likely to provide inspiration for real life beachcombing and rockpool adventures, where children can bring facts learned through reading into the real world.” – Chris Roberts * Australian Marine Science Bulletin Number 210 (1) *“The illustrated children’s book, The Great Southern Reef, […] raises much-needed awareness of this unique reef ecosystem as ‘an entity’ and increases children’s, as well as parents’ and teachers’ knowledge on the flora and fauna inhabiting kelp forests. [It] is a wonderful asset to any home or Australian school curriculum (or schools aboard), particularly those in close proximity to kelp forests, with added opportunities to participate in beachcoming activities/hands-on learning on field trips.” – Sharon Wismer * Australian Journal of Environmental Education *

Paul Venzo, PhD, is a Senior Lecturer in writing, literature, and culture at Deakin University. A poet and author, he lives alongside Australia’s Great Southern Reef.

Prue Francis, PhD, is a Senior Lecturer in marine science at Deakin University. A passionate marine educator, she loves snorkelling and exploring rock pools along the Great Southern Reef.

Cate James is a children’s book illustrator who lives by the ocean and loves swimming at the beach. She has a very naughty miniature dachshund called Sebastian who barks a lot. Cate’s favourite things to draw are native Australian trees and wildlife.