Favourite book characters stepped off the page and into the streets of Gin Gin this week as local businesses once again took part in Paint Gin Gin REaD.
The annual Book Week initiative saw a record 36 shops and organisations come together to create literary displays, with children encouraged to visit as many as possible.
Books by local author Chelsea Collier inspired two displays, with Gin Gin Hardware showcasing her first book I Can Do Hard Things and Gin Gin Community Kindergarten celebrating her second book Just Jovi.
“Book Week is important because it encourages children to love to read which is really good for our younger generation especially in the age of iPads and technology,” Chelsea said.
“Reading is really important for children’s development and literacy skills and that’s one of the reasons I wanted to be an author, to encourage reading and help foster that love.”
Gin Gin Community Kindergarten director and teacher Tanthia Dixon said the 2026 Book Week theme was the perfect fit for the annual initiative.
“This year’s theme is Symphony of Stories which really reflects the community coming together to create that symphony,” Tanthia said.
“I think it’s very important for children because it helps them become involved in the community through stories.
“It brings the community together, it brings families together, it’s exciting for the children and it’s also a great opportunity to highlight local authors.”
