Shepparton News

Pawsome chance to write a story

- For more informatio­n, visit www.rspcavic.org/pawsomesto­ries

Back by popular demand, RSPCA Victoria is again looking for Pawsome Stories to be judged by best-selling children’s author Andy Griffiths.

RSPCA Victoria’s Pawsome Stories invites children in Years 3 to 6 to put their writing skills to the test in either a fictional story about rescuing an animal, or a persuasive essay to answer the question, ‘If you could change one thing in the world to improve animals’ lives, what would it be and why?’

Entries will be reviewed by renowned authors Mr Griffiths and Cameron Macintosh, who will sit on a judging panel alongside RSPCA Victoria chief executive Liz Walker.

Not only is Mr Griffiths one of Australia’s most popular children’s authors, with his Treehouse series embraced by children all over the world, he is also a passionate advocate for encouragin­g and improving children’s literacy.

“Ruby the RSPCA rescue cat and I are honoured to be judges for this year’s Pawsome Stories competitio­n. In the treehouse I love writing about animals, Terry loves drawing them and Jill loves rescuing them — so you can imagine how much Ruby and I are looking forward to reading the Victorian children’s animal rescue stories,” he said.

Entrants will have the opportunit­y to win great prizes including a Pawsome Stories trophy, Dymocks vouchers, plush toys and a virtual tour for their whole class to meet RSPCA Victoria’s barn animals.

Judges will select one winner and two runners-up in each of the categories.

“At a time when many young Victorians are spending an extended period of time at home and away from school, we hope that Pawsome Stories will give them an opportunit­y to practise their creative writing and critical thinking skills that will assist them in their schooling as well as their long-term careers,” Dr Walker said.

Entries close September 17 and winners will be announced via a live webinar on October 14 at 4.30 pm.

 ??  ?? Renowned writer: Popular children’s author and pet owner Andy Griffiths is one of the judges for RSPCA Victoria’s Pawsome Stories.
Renowned writer: Popular children’s author and pet owner Andy Griffiths is one of the judges for RSPCA Victoria’s Pawsome Stories.

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from Australia