New book takes young readers on Lake Mac adventures

Published on 15 November 2024

Shrinking the iconic Fernleigh Track from 15km to just 60cm was just one of the challenges Illustrator Chrissy McYoung faced when bringing to life a new book showcasing Lake Macquarie and all its splendour.

McYoung spent painstaking hours creating and fine-tuning each colourful illustration for Lake Macquarie Adventures for Kids, launched today by Lake Macquarie City Council’s Lifelong Learning team.

Each of the book’s double-page spreads features a different part of Lake Mac, from Rathmines Park to Swansea Channel, and from Redhead Beach to the Watagan Mountains.

The illustrations are dense with colour and detail, offering young readers a chance to explore the city through words and pictures.

“I was aware of some places selected for the book but enjoyed exploring each spot in the local area,” McYoung said.

“Drawing the Fernleigh Track, I spent many hours cycling up and down, stopping, exploring and drawing.”

McYoung described the book’s visual style as “quirky, whimsical, silly and fun”.

“It’s full of things to find – a mix of map-style and scenic landscapes,” she said.

Council Coordinator Lifelong Learning and Engagement Kirrily Anderson said public libraries had a role to play in creating their own educational material to celebrate and enhance learning experiences.

“The book is designed to act as a starting point to encourage young families to get out and explore the lake and what it has to offer,” she said.

“We want people to know there is a Lake Mac adventure waiting for them.”

The book is available in hardcover ($30) and softcover ($20) from Lake Mac Libraries branches and the Museum of Art and Culture, yapang.

It will also be sold at this year’s Lake Mac Carols at Speers Point.

Go to library.lakemac.com.au for more information about events and news at Lake Mac Libraries branches.