The Indigenous Literacy Foundation (ILF) marked its biggest celebration of the year - Indigenous Literacy Day 2025 - with the launch of a very special book at the Sydney Opera House on Wednesday.
Written by students from Katherine High School, the bilingual children’s story Grinch det K’Taun Krok! (Grinch the K-Town Croc!) reimagines a cheeky crocodile causing havoc in the local river systems.
The book is told in both English and Kriol, blending humour with a message for young readers about safety and respect for Country.
The launch formed part of this year’s theme, “Strength in our stories: for now and future generations,” highlighting the importance of cultural identity, storytelling and bilingual education.
ILF CEO Ben Bowen said Indigenous Literacy Day is about much more than books.
“Storytelling is not about one generation. It’s about an ongoing, constant evolution - investing in the next generation and making sure we keep oral storytelling strong, and connected to culture, family and Country.”
Students from Katherine travelled to Sydney for the event, taking to the stage at the Opera House to share their story with a live audience and thousands more tuning in online.
For young author Rodney Duncan, the best part was seeing the book out in the world.
“I’m most proud of seeing the book in the shops and schools. We wrote the book to warn kids in our community about crocs.”
Kamilaroi, Barkindji, Ballardong and Whadjuk woman and ILF ambassador Bianca Hunt, who hosted the celebration, said the book reflects the pride and creativity of young people.
“I’m so excited to see these kids launch their story. It’s about giving children books with culture, purpose and meaning - stories that show them who they are.”
The lively tale of the Grinch Croc - complete with an unexpected twist ending - had already been celebrated in the Northern Territory, but today’s national launch gave the young authors the rare opportunity to see their work presented on one of the country's most iconic stages.
Gregg Dreise, a proud Gomeroi man, author and ILF ambassador, said the project is about building identity and confidence through storytelling.
“Strength is about identity - about what our Elders fought to give us. Our kids should grow up proud storytellers.
"The days of shame are over. We’re going to keep our culture strong and proud.”
The ILF has been working for 18 years to support communities across Australia with access to books, publishing in First Nations languages, and programs that champion bilingual learning.
Bowen said the focus is always on community-led stories.
“Our kids are usually able to do two, three, sometimes even five languages. Language is strength - it bridges gaps and connects us across the world.”
As the celebrations wrapped up, the message of the day was clear: stories carry strength, and when they are told in the voices of children and communities, they shape future generations.
