Have you ever heard about Digger, the dog who was smuggled onto a troop ship by his owner in the First World War? Or the incredible tale of a carrier pigeon that helped save a patrol in the Second World War? Uncover these remarkable stories and more in an interactive program designed for the whole family.

Join us for an immersive experience led by award-winning author and illustrator, Mark Wilson. Mark will guide your family through his captivating picture books, setting the stage for an engaging drawing activity suitable for children and teens.

Families will also be invited to attend a 15-minute Last Post Service on the Shrine Forecourt. Together, we will pay tribute to the role played by children during times of conflict and the profound impact of war on their lives.

A selection of Mark Wilson's books will be available for purchase and personal signing. Booking your spot is essential as spaces are limited. 

Please note, all children must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of this activity. 

This program relates to a new exhibition at the Shrine, Toys, Tales and Tenacity: Childhood Experiences of War. To learn more about the exhibition, click here. 

About the Author 

Mark Wilson is a multiple award-winning author/illustrator with 39 books in print in nine languages. Mark has a particular passion for Australian history and the environment. Mark has won 5 Royal Zoological Society (Whitley) Awards for children’s literature, 11 CBCA Children’s Book Awards, 3 Wilderness Society Picturebook Awards and was shortlisted in the 3rd C.J. Picture Book Awards International. He was also presented with the 2011 Dromkeen Medal for Services to Children’s Literature.