FREE MEMBER ONLINE EVENT

July 30th, 4.30 to 6.00pm

Hear from the CBCA Judges on the CBCA short-listed titles 2026 

The Victorian Judges presenting are:

Liz Murray - Picture Book/New Illustrator

Jo Pentony - Younger reader and Eve Pownell

WA Judge Annika Kononen - Older Reader

Liz Murray is an author, teacher and library director living and working on Wurundjeri and Bunurong land. Her debut picture book ‘Gus’ was published with Berbay Books in 2024. She believes wholeheartedly in the power of picture books, and in the importance of doing all the voices.

Jo Pentony is a dedicated and passionate advocate for children’s literature, with a diverse career that spans roles as a Kindergarten teacher, primary school teacher, secondary school teacher, English teacher, Head of LOTE, and Lecturer of Literature. A fervent supporter of quality Australian children’s literature, Jo is committed to celebrating and promoting the best works in the field.

Annika Kononen is a passionate English teacher who believes in the power of reading to inspire and ignite creativity, empathy and wonder. Annika is Head of the English Faculty at Kinross College in Perth, Western Australia and has been an educator for ten years. She is an avid reader and she absolutely loves the genres of speculative fiction, science fiction and romance. Annika is beyond excited to be a judge for the CBCA older reader’s category and is honoured to be a part of an organisation that ignites a passion for reading.

All Members Welcome

This event is free for all SLAV Members and
is a designated SLAV Branch Activity.