Five Geebung students from St Kevin’s School have gained recognition in the 2026 Young Voices Awards for work exploring koala protection, green spaces, faith and justice during Children’s Book Week.
Their entries span written articles and digital storytelling, with the students examining subjects ranging from responsibility for the environment to courage, belief and justice.
Geebung Students Write About Koalas, Parks And Faith
Year 6 student Shivaasnh won first place in the Junior Article section for Person who does the doing: Lessons from a Koala Corridor. The piece explored the responsibility shared by individuals and communities in protecting koalas and their environment.
Fellow Year 6 student Danny received a highly commended award in the same section for Save Victoria Park, which focused on protecting green spaces and the importance of local parks.
Year 5 student Isabella was also highly commended in the Junior Article section for No Courage Without Faith. Her article considered how faith can provide courage when people face challenges and unexpected circumstances.
Recognition also extended to the Junior Digital section. Year 6 student Lilliana received a special mention for Wheels of Joy, while classmate Shaun earned a highly commended award for Justice Life. Their entries explored themes connected with bold action, belief, justice and hope.
The Young Voices Awards are presented annually by Australian Catholics magazine in partnership with Australian Catholic University. The 2026 theme, To go boldly: The path of faith and justice, invited students to consider how courage and conviction can shape faith journeys, including through caring for others and standing up for what is right.
Book Week Brings Storytelling Into Focus
The recognition falls during Children’s Book Week, which runs from 22 to 28 August in 2026. The Children’s Book Council of Australia selected Symphony of Stories as this year’s theme.
St Kevin’s School Acting Principal Benedict Campbell said reading, writing and storytelling help young people understand the world around them and the experiences of others. He said the students’ work combined literacy with themes of faith, justice and stewardship while involving critical thinking, empathy and advocacy.
St Kevin’s School, at 249 Newman Road in Geebung, describes its focus as helping students reach their academic potential while developing Christian faith, social confidence and responsibility.
Writing Results Accompany Award Recognition
The student awards coincide with the school’s reported 2026 NAPLAN Writing results.
In Year 3, 85.8 per cent of students achieved Strong or Exceeding proficiency levels in writing. Among Year 5 students, 91.6 per cent reached those levels.
Campbell linked the results with quality teaching and learning in writing, including opportunities for students to develop their skills through meaningful work.
Published 24-August-2026
