We are a
non-profit Australian publisher, specialising in children’s books and
Australian stories and images. Based in Barwon South West Victoria, we use
mainly local artists and creators to tell both local and broader stories. We
are currently working with several Aboriginal artists and story-tellers on a
new range of Aboriginal children’s stories, due for release next year.
Farewelling Discovery Press colleague and friend
Acclaimed artist and children's author Debbie Austin passes away
After
47 years of challenge and achievement, acclaimed artist and children’s
book creator Debbie Austin died suddenly in May 2011 at her home in
Geelong. Much loved by many, Debbie leaves behind five of her children,
several grandchildren, many close friends and a legacy of artistic
endeavour.
A
member of the stolen generation, Debbie began her creative journey 15
years ago after returning to her ‘spiritual land’ and biological family
in South West Victoria.
Tragically,
Debbie’s mother had long passed, but fortunately Uncle Banjo Clarke’s
charismatic story-telling inspired Debbie to find her own voice through
art. She saw much of her art as a way to keep his and their community’s
stories alive after he died.
Predominantly
a dot painter but also a sculptor and muralist, Debbie went on to sell
many paintings and artworks, and held several well-received
exhibitions, including at the Port Fairy Whalebone Gallery and the
Warrnambool Performing Arts Centre.
In
recent years, Debbie turned her talents to creating colourful
children’s books, consecutively addressing Aboriginal literacy and
wellbeing in the process. Debbie wrote and illustrated the successful
Indigenous First Discovery Books for Discovery Press (the publishing
program of Community Connections), as well as the beautiful Old Tucker
Man for One Day Hill publishing. A proud grandparent, Debbie was
thrilled that her grandchildren were not only great readers, but became
so by reading the books she wrote.
