Jeni Mawter, a noted children's author, came to Yass last March for two days and ran workshops for 200 students from years five and six who came from local and surrounding primary schools. Jeni mainly spoke about 'how to tell a story' and 'how to pull your ideas together'. The students had a short time to write a piece and have it submitted for judging.  All stories and poems were sent to a publishing house in Victoria; there they were read, judged and returned to the Yass Lions Club. Every school that entered either had a winner or an encouragement award. The standard of the work received was remarkable.

Lion Cherie Hobart, who organised the event, said it was tough to choose winners.

"I understand the publishing house had some difficulty in deciding the winners and look forward to Yass Lions Club hosting future literacy programs."

Geena Elliot of Yass Public was the winner with her story entitled Born Wild. Zoe Hudson, also from Yass Public, came second with a story entitled, Piggy, Piggy. Hannah Trotter from Rye Park came third. All winners received an award, books and a cheque from the Yass Lions Club.

The Childrens' Literacy Program commenced in Victoria, a part of the Childrens' Charity Network. Lions adopted the program as one of their Australia-wide projects which now enables all clubs to participate. For more information on the network and it programs you can goggle or contact the Lions Club of Lara.

If you are interested in this and other Yass Lions Club projects, or you would like more information about joining the Lions Club, contact Lion Geoff Hobart on 0411414678.

Contributed.