Kellie Byrnes is a children’s author, presenter, mentor, book reviewer, kidlit blogger, and full-time freelance writer with a BA degree in Literature. Kellie also mentors and provides critiques and marketing services for new authors. She has presented at numerous literary events and bookshops, schools, and early learning centres, and enjoys encouraging children and adults to be creative and to develop their strengths as writers. Kellie has completed a wide variety of writing workshops and courses and attended literary events across Australia and internationally. She is a member of multiple writing groups and an active part of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI).

Kellie also has experience working in the publishing industry in Australia, in both editorial and sales roles (for Pan Macmillan Australia and Hardie Grant Gift). Plus, she has worked in multiple bookshops during her career. Kellie’s love of books, stories, writing, and creativity started from an early age. Today, apart from spending time with her beloved dogs and hanging out with her friends and family or planning her next travel adventure, most of Kellie’s time is spent following these literary passions.

Lesley McGee is a Melbourne artist, designer and photographer who lives in the foothills of the Dandenong Ranges. As an aspiring picture book illustrator, Lesley’s publishing foray began with her own manuscript and illustration project, featuring Milly and a cast of magical creatures. An ongoing project, she hopes to self-publish Milly’s adventures in the near future.