Dromkeen, kids call

Gallery director Bernadette Joiner in Dromkeen’s world of literary delights. (Joe Mastroianni)

Young book lovers, and those young at heart, can rub shoulders with some of their favourite authors and illustrators at the Dromkeen Literary Festival next month.

An impressive line-up of authors, illustrators and cartoonists will be part of the annual festival on March 18, which celebrates children’s literature and storytelling.

Children’s book authors and illustrators presenting at the event include Gabrielle Wang, Mark Wilson, Marc McBride, Claire Saxby and Glenda Millard.

Built in 1889, Dromkeen was once a country estate and later home to the world-famous Dromkeen Picture Book Art Collection.

From 1973, Joyce and Courtney Oldmeadow used the estate as the base for their educational book empire, building a public centre of original artworks and manuscripts from Australian children’s picture books.

The latest owners, the Joiner family, purchased the National Trust-registered property in 2013. Dromkeen education officer and gallery director Bernadette Joiner says this year’s LitFest will include workshops, talks, book signings, puppet shows and literature related activities in the heritage gardens.

There will also be readings and panel discussions, picnics and play activities, with Riddell’s Creek CFA members on hand to help with the show.

“It will be a day for the whole family, teachers, librarians and all lovers of children’s literature,” Ms Joiner says.

Details: 5428 6799 or www.dromkeen.com.au/litfest