I’m delighted to have my entry, Sitting Pretty, featured in the Visual Stories Competition at the Margaret River Region Readers & Writers Festival 2026.

“Sitting Pretty” tells the story of an iconic Australian Galah with big dreams of fame. Full of personality, curiosity and a touch of cheeky ambition, this colourful character captures the humour and spirit that make Australia’s native birds so unforgettable. Through this work, I wanted to celebrate the Galah’s vibrant presence while inviting viewers to imagine the story behind its confident pose.

The Visual Stories Competition celebrates the power of storytelling through art and forms part of the Margaret River Readers & Writers Festival 2026, showcasing works that inspire conversation, imagination and connection.

“Sitting Pretty” – Visual Story.

Gary the Galah was having what he proudly called a fabulous morning. He’d found the perfect gum branch—high enough to feel important, low enough for everyone to admire him.

He fluffed his pink feathers. “Behold,” he declared to absolutely no one, “Australia’s most magnificent bird.”

The branch wobbled.

Gary ignored it. Icons don’t fall.

He struck a heroic pose. The branch dipped again with a creak that sounded suspiciously like laughter. A Kookaburra snorted.

Gary glared. “I’ll have you know this is a premium branch.”

The branch chose that moment to bounce like a trampoline. Squawking indignantly Gary fought for balance. After an undignified wobble, he managed to stay upright—barely.

The Kookaburra cackled so hard he nearly toppled off his ownperch.

Gary lifted his crest. “That was a rehearsed stunt. For my fans.”

He looked around. Still no fans. Stardom was exhausting.