Robyn O’Neill is a Stanwell Park teacher turned author/illustrator who recently published her first children’s picture book, Tree-squeak: The Old Growth Gum.
Please tell us a bit about yourself.
I’m an artist and primary school teacher living in Stanwell Park for the last 12 years. I’m a nature lover, daily swimmer and walker of my dog Matisse (also an artist). I love cycling and bushwalking
What is Tree-squeak about?
My book is about an old growth gum tree. These are our native Eucalyptus trees, that are over 170 years old, and the myriad of creatures that call them home. That includes over 75 species of gliders, birds, bats, snakes, bats, powerful owls – all use their hollows or their branches. The book is a rhyming guessing game with pictures for young children ages 3-8.
Why write for children?
As a teacher I’m aware of how important education is. Children are so open and also have a love of nature, and innately want to make the world a better place. Most adults, I find, have fixed views, or are cynical or jaded, or worried about their busy lives and paying the mortgage. And many things we care about we feel unable to change. But the idea of a critical mass to make change inspires me. By educating children about important issues like the environment and social issues, such as Indigenous or gay rights, the use of plastics or about the importance of old growth gums, I hope to have some positive influence. I also love drawing and making art!
What inspired your illustrations?
We have a bush block down the South Coast that was burnt in the 2020 fires. Several of the largest old River Peppermints were burnt so badly they did not recover, though thankfully many have. I did most of my illustrations based on the trees and animals I enjoy seeing on that property. Sadly, with more frequent fires, these animals lose more trees and more habitat.
Also, much of the forestry activity in the south-east of NSW of hardwood (ie. native forests) is woodchipped and sent overseas. It happens out of mind and out of sight, but they are literally clear-felled. Whole ecosystems are destroyed, which can’t just rebuild themselves. I have seen this in areas out the back of Bombala. It is just so sad! We could do so much better.
Bob Brown has written an introduction to your book. How did this come about?
I went to see the movie The Giants, based on Bob Brown and his life-work of saving the forests In Tasmania and mainland Australia. He asks at the end of the movie: “What can you do to look after our trees, and our planet?"
I wrote an email to him, saying this was “What I can do” and showed him a draft copy of my book. He wrote the most beautiful introduction, which in part says: “Robyn O’Neill’s Tree-squeak is that best of all literary concoctions – a story which does not thunder but, while offering contentment, also stirs hope for the future. In these beautiful words and illustrations is the promise that Australia’s native trees and wildlife will be better respected, better protected, by the next generation. A special gift for every wide-eyed youngster.”
I was really moved by his words and so grateful for his support.
What do you hope children take away from reading your book?
Stories are so important to engage young children – I have already read the book in a number of classrooms. From there, there is class discussion, and the kids like to draw their own trees and animals or do further research. As issues about the environment become more critical, I believe it is so important to inspire young people to care for the environment.
Where can we buy a copy?
You can buy the books at:
- Collins Booksellers Thirroul;
- Dec 3 – Stanwell Park Christmas art markets outside Articles Gallery 3-7pm;
- Dec 9 – Society City Book launch and signing: 10am-12 noon, 274 Crown St, Wollongong (opposite Spotlight);
- Or order from me direct at $25 plus postage. Please contact Ooranookbooks@gmail.com and follow Ooranook Books on Facebook and Instagram.
You can sign a petition here to end native hardwood logging.
