Vegemite Zombies rise! Wesley students win award in national writing competition
Wesley College students have made an impressive debut in the annual ‘Write a Book in a Day’ competition, a unique fundraiser and creative challenge organised by The Kids’ Cancer Project. This initiative not only raises funds for cancer research but provides access to an online library of stories for children undergoing treatment in hospitals across Australia.
This year, the competition saw a staggering 14,146 writers in 1,939 teams from various regions and age groups take part. Working in groups of 5–10, students were tasked with writing and illustrating an original book that adhered to a set of randomly generated parameters – such as having to include certain words and characters – all within a single day.
‘The Wes Lions’ team, comprising nine students from Years 5 and 6, worked tirelessly from 8am until 5.30pm, demonstrating high levels of enthusiasm, collaboration and dedication. Their hard work and creativity culminated in the production of ‘The Rise of the Vegemite Zombies’, which is now available for children in hospitals to read.
‘My favourite part of the competition was the way we had to work in a big group, so all the roles were spread across the team throughout the day,’ said Matteo (Year 6). Evie (Year 5) enjoyed planning the book because ‘it was so fun to see how all our ideas started’.
The team’s outstanding efforts were recognised, with their book earning a Commended Award in the Primary Division for the VIC/SA/TAS region.
‘I was very happy and excited that we got commended as we not only worked super hard to create a great book, but were also supporting a great cause,’ said Daniel (Year 5).
The ‘Write a Book in a Day’ competition aligns with the International Baccalaureate’s Primary Years Program service learning, which engages students in meaningful work that positively impacts others and fosters personal growth. Whether through volunteer efforts or curriculum-based projects, Wesley’s students are encouraged to extend a helping hand to support various causes.
Congratulations to our talented students for this exceptional accomplishment!
